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Launch your global career by studying on our research-informed, practical-focused MSc International Business programme.
In response to the evolving digital transformation in the business sector, our programme integrates research and practical insights. Prepare to lead in international business with enhanced problem-solving and decision-making skills tailored for today's dynamic global environment.
With responsible and ethical business practices embedded at its core, this programme will enable you to become part of a new generation of leaders who can make positive and sustainable changes to the industry. You will consider the latest practical issues facing international firms. These include the multifaceted concept of responsible business, trade-offs in operations, cooperative strategies, and new approaches to enhancing competitiveness.
The programme is designed around a pathway-to-practice approach that focuses on developing key skills including understanding the latest business models, international competition, optimising modern technology, innovation, and data analytics.
The MSc International Business will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in international business. Through real-world case studies and practical experience, you’ll develop key skills that are highly sought after by organisations worldwide. The programme addresses intellectual issues and policy challenges in the field, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-life business challenges.
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Most targeted university by top graduate employers
High Fliers Report, The Graduate Market 2024
QS World University Rankings 2025
QS Top Universities
World University Rankings 2025
Times Higher Education
Our MSc International Business degree includes a wide variety of learning and teaching:
The course comprises of 180 credits, taught through a series of 20 credit modules and a 60 credit Dissertation. Students will study three core modules and choose three optional modules.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
Module title | Credits | Semester |
Dissertation | 60 | Semester 2 |
International Business | 20 | Semester 1 |
International Strategy | 20 | Semester 1 |
Practising and Managing International Business | 20 | Semester 1 |
Choose one module from each of the following sets.
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Cooperative Strategy in International Business | 20 | Semester 2 |
International Business Data Analytics | 20 | Semester 2 |
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Disruptive Innovation and International Business | 20 | Semester 2 |
International Entrepreneurship and Marketing | 20 | Semester 2 |
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Global Operations and Supply Chain Management | 20 | Semester 2 |
Governance and Global Responsibility | 20 | Semester 2 |
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
In order to be considered, applicants will have or should be expecting to achieve an Honours degree (2:1 or higher) or postgraduate diploma from a UK university (or overseas equivalent) in any subject. Applicants who demonstrate being able to exceed the minimum entry requirements will be given preference.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification. You'll need to have an IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band or equivalent.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
(full-time)
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
The programme is designed to enhance your employability by building your knowledge in key areas of international business such as cooperative strategy, global operations, business analytics, marketing, and global responsibility. You will also have the opportunity to draw on the talents of our alumni who are very much integrated into the programme. With their expertise, combined with the breadth of the syllabus, this Masters programme will prepare you for a successful international career.
As a Birmingham Business School student, you will benefit from two award-winning Careers teams.
Careers Network is the University of Birmingham careers and employability team offering: career fairs, employer events with top firms across the UK, start-up and entrepreneurial activities, and support. Internships and bursaries are also available exclusively to University of Birmingham students.
BBS Careers is a dedicated service for Birmingham Business School students. The team provides guidance, support, and work experience opportunities, tailored to business school students, to help you succeed during and after university. We offer workshops, alumni and employer events, and 1-to-1 consultations. These will help you to develop your skills and learn how to submit high-quality internship and graduate applications.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.