The Illicit Finance MBA (IFMBA) is a specialised Master of Business Administration from Bangor University (UK) that also awards the Financial Intelligence Specialist (FIS) designation from ManchesterCF, a leading financial intelligence training provider based in Canada.
Tailored for civil servants, government officials and policymakers, the IFMBA offers a deep dive into critical issues such as money laundering, terrorism financing, fraud and sanctions evasion.
Delivered entirely via flexible distance learning, the IFMBA supports professionals working across international markets. Participants benefit from a blend of live, interactive online sessions and self-paced study materials, including recorded lectures, detailed study guides, and access to Bangor University’s extensive eLibrary.
Intakes are in April and October. Fees for 2025/26 range from GBP £13,100 to £20,500, with scholarships and instalment plans supported. For personalised guidance on the most suitable pathway, curriculum, and associated fees, an eligibility assessment can be requested by emailing your CV to info@acwila.com
Curriculum
The Illicit Finance MBA comprises Specialist Modules and Management Modules, typically studied in parallel across four semesters. In each semester, students complete one Specialist Module and one Management Module.
Applicants with relevant postgraduate or professional qualifications may qualify for an Accelerated Route that can range from 12 to 18 months and requires fewer modules by demonstrating prior achievement of the learning outcomes at a recognised institution. For confirmation of your eligibility, personalised guidance on the most appropriate route, and details of the associated fees, please contact us: info@acwila.com
Specialist Modules
Specialist Modules are assessed with two pieces of assessment of 5500 and 1500 words per module. By exception, the Introduction to Financial Crime & Compliance module is examined with a 4000-word assignment and a recorded presentation.
- Introduction to Financial Crime & Compliance
- National Security Aspects of Financial Crime
- Human Aspects of Global Financial Crime
- Institutional Perspectives of Global Financial Crime
Each module is worth 30 postgraduate credits.
Management Modules
Management Modules are assessed by a 2,000-word assignment and a two-hour computer-based open-book exam.
- Corporate Strategy
- Managing Change: Insights from Marketing
- Managing Resources: An Analytical Foundation
- People & Organisational Behaviour
Each module is worth 15 postgraduate credits.
Brochure
Brochure Disclaimer
Course information is correct at the time of publication and is for guidance only. Modules, structure, and fees may change each academic year.
IFMBA brochure: https://issuu.com/bangoruniversity/docs/illicit_finance_mba
How to Apply For further information, to request a pre-application eligibility assessment or to apply, please send your CV to: info@acwila.com
Alternative Study Routes
Financial Intelligence Programme (FIP)
A flexible pathway for professionals who want to earn the Financial Intelligence Specialist designation and desire to work towards a master’s degree. Learn more about the Financial Intelligence Programme here.
Financial Crime & Compliance MBA (FCCMBA)
The IFMBA is one of only two qualifications globally to combine an MBA alongside the FIS designation – the other being the Financial Crime & Compliance MBA (FCCMBA).
Study Single Modules
Single modules from the Illicit Finance MBA are delivered over a 6-month semester and are available for standalone study at a cost of £1,700 per 15 credit module / £3,400 per 30 credit module. Candidates will be awarded the relevant postgraduate credits for every module successfully completed and may later be applied towards the IFMBA or other postgraduate qualifications.
