Internal organisational issues. Topics that focus or reflect on the internal functions or fundamental processes of organisations such as accounting, finance, human resource management, marketing, management information systems and operations management usually form the core of most MBA programmes. These topics focus on the internal functions that impact on the making of a product or the providing of a service, the delivery of it to clients or customers and the exchange and investment of resources. Quality and information technology have been two of the issues, which have become increasingly important in looking at internal functions and processes and are included in most MBA programmes.

People- individual and group behaviour. Topics, which focus on how individuals behave within organisations, include organisational behaviour, leadership, motivation, decision-making, power, diversity, negotiation, ethics and team building. These topics are sometimes referred to as the 'soft' topics. The reality is that they are very difficult for many managers and have become increasingly important. Flatter, leaner organisational structures have increased the importance of understanding how people learn and why they work. Change management and understanding the complexities of change have become important elements of MBA programmes as organisations have had to respond to more dynamic environments and cross cultural work forces.

Organisational boundary and external issues. Topics specifically focused on understanding and attempting to analyse the environments in which organisations function include economics, law, international business, e-commerce, government and society, strategic management and business policy. These topics assist in understanding the local and global nature of organisations, the societies in which they operate and impact, as well as the ways in which senior business and government leaders may shape or attempt to shape an organisation's future.