
Illicit Finance MBA
Course overview
The Albert Gubay Business School is the only institution globally to offer the Illicit Finance MBA - a ground-breaking qualification awarding an MBA alongside a professional designation of Financial Intelligence Specialist (FIS). The Illicit Finance MBA combines specialisms in national security and financial intelligence with a management toolkit necessary to navigate and operate effectively within the evolving landscapes of defence and national security, at both national and global levels. This specialised programme delves into the legal, regulatory, and due diligence aspects of detecting and mitigating threats to national security, while taking a global perspective on stakeholders with criminal intent.
Delivered through distance learning on a part-time basis using proven technology, the programme integrates materials, previously only available in self-study mode, from ManchesterCF, an established provider of financial intelligence qualifications to industry practitioners worldwide. Who would benefit from the Illicit Finance MBA? The Illicit Finance MBA is designed to enhance career prospects for specialists in national security and defence, as well as those interested in entering this field.
The programme is tailored for military, security and defence personnel, civil servants, government officials, and policymakers. Target audiences include professionals in the Five Eyes countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and United States) and other similar networks (9 Eyes, 14 Eyes, etc). The programme provides a comprehensive exploration of illicit finance, focusing on key areas such as money laundering, terrorism financing, fraud, and sanctions evasion.
This advanced learning experience provides specialist subjects, including Introduction to Financial Crime, National Security Aspects of Financial Crime, Human Aspects of Financial Crime, and Institutional Perspectives of Financial Crime. The programme also develops management competencies through study of People & Organisational Behaviour, Managing Resources, Managing Change, and Corporate Strategy. Combined, the modules equip participants for senior positions within the sectors.
Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change. Programme Delivery Mode The Illicit Finance MBA is a distance learning programme, a unique combination of interactive online sessions and self-study. Designed to make life easier for busy professionals, it minimises time away from the office and therefore has less impact on the day-to-day operation of the business and the students’ working day.
The online learning element is delivered by a combination of recorded lectures, live tutorials and Blackboard (virtual learning environment). Academic support throughout the semester will be provided through: Discussion forums Live web chats Web based tutorials using our online learning platform ‘Blackboard’ ManchesterCF Financial Intelligence ManchesterCF provides online financial intelligence training programmes with a global perspective to financial institutions, public-sector bodies, defence and enforcement agencies and multinational corporations. Based in Toronto, ManchesterCF works with subject-matter experts to construct effective training programmes on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.
The expertise of ManchesterCF is built on solid experience in international banking, financial intelligence, and compliance.
Key highlights
- Awards an MBA plus Financial Intelligence Specialist (FIS) professional designation
- Covers money laundering, terrorism financing, fraud and sanctions evasion
- Integrates ManchesterCF financial intelligence training materials
- Combines national security specialisms with core management modules
- Distance learning via recorded lectures, live tutorials and Blackboard
- Designed for military, defence, civil service and policy professionals
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:2 — …programme will be considered for applicants who meet the following criteria: A 2:2 undergraduate degree or equivalent with a minimum of two years relevant work experience* Candidates who do not have a formal degree or professi…
Scholarships
Deans Scholarship - Postgraduate Research
20% reduction in the published Postgraduate Research tuition fee for each year of study.
Up to 20% of feesHeads of School Scholarship
10% reduction in the published Postgraduate Research tuition fee for each year of study.
Up to 10% of feesInclusive Bangor Scholarships
Payment towards tuition fees for one-year taught or research postgraduate Masters (or for two years if studying part-time). This will be capped at £9,500.
Refugee Scholarship
Vice-Chancellor Postgraduate Research Scholarships
50% discount on the published International Tuition Fee for each year of study.
Up to 50% of fees
Careers this course leads to
- Financial intelligence analyst
- Anti-money laundering compliance manager
- Counter-terrorist financing specialist
- Financial crime investigator
- Sanctions compliance officer
- National security policy adviser
Cost of study
UK/Home: £20,500 per year | International: £20,500 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Bangor University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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