‘Oscars of higher education’ listing School of Management

University of Bradford’s School of Management - already ranked among one of the best in the world - has been shortlisted for Business School of the Year by the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2021.

The THE Awards are widely recognised as the 'Oscars of higher education', attracting hundreds of entrants.

Prof Sankar Sivarajah, Head of the School of Management, said: “This is great news for the School and our University. Even to be shortlisted is a significant achievement, given the level of competition for this award.

“The last year has been particularly challenging, for students, graduates, staff and businesses. At the School of Management, we stepped up to and met the challenges created by the pandemic, offering extra support to our students, launching new courses and extending help to local businesses.

“We are pleased and proud our hard work has resulted in this shortlisting and everyone in the School should feel proud.”

“We would also like to congratulate all those nominated at the awards and we look forward to celebrating the fantastic achievements by all in these difficult times.”

The University’s application cited numerous innovations and initiatives from the last 12 months, including:-

• An MSc course in AI and Data Analytics to help mature students (particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds) gain new skills - funded by £700,000 from the Office for Students
• The first national pilot of SAS Step, a training and re-skilling course for graduates
• Its Career Booster programme, designed to give industry knowledge to students
• Offering help and guidance to SMEs, especially with post-pandemic recovery
• Launching a mini-MBA Series for Year 12 and Year 13 School Students at Bradford Girls’ Grammar School

The University’s School of Management is world renowned - it was the first business school to be jointly accredited by AMBA and BGA in England and in February this year, its MBA was ranked No.1 in the world for value for money by the Financial Times.

Prof Vishanth Weerakkody, Chair of Bradford Business and Social Enterprise Board, said: “The School of Management is a shining example both at the University and in the region. It has won numerous prestigious awards. It is very much part of the community, having excellent links to businesses, regionally, nationally and globally. This shortlisting reflects its pioneering spirit and its vision to change people’s lives for the better.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof Shirley Congdon added: “Staff in our Business School exemplify the University of Bradford’s caring approach and commitment to social inclusion. They look for innovative ways to attract students from all backgrounds and then support them in reaching their potential. The result is graduates who are fully-prepared for meaningful careers, whether that’s with regional employers, international brands or their own business start-up. Being shortlisted for this award is an achievement in itself and deserved recognition for everyone involved.”

Winners will be revealed at an in-person ceremony in London on 25 November 2021.