Entrepreneurship and Innovation
MSc
Are you looking to start your own company, lead a family business or acquire highly sought-after entrepreneurial skills?
Location: Aston University, Birmingham
Course type
Full-time
Entry requirements
Duration
One year
Start date
Course overview
Aston University, renowned for its extensive industry contacts, links to business incubators and robust start-up support, serves as an ideal springboard for your future ambitions. The MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation programme, delivered by the triple-accredited Aston Business School, is meticulously designed to provide you with both a solid academic foundation and practical skills. These are essential whether you're aiming to kick-start your own business venture or seeking to excel in your current career trajectory.
You will be supported by a range of leading academics and practitioners who are experts in the areas of entrepreneurship and innovation, creating opportunities for you to learn within a world class environment.
Improving our students’ learning experience and wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do, and that is why we are implementing an innovative learning approach known as block teaching. This will enhance our students’ educational journey and emotional wellbeing.
Why Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Aston University?
Enterprise support
Benefit from a business incubator, BSEEN (Birmingham Skills for Enterprise and Employability Network)
Recognised for quality
Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation
Gain the advantage
Get ahead of the competition with the Aston Global Advantage professional development module
Excellent prospects
Aston University was named runner-up in the University of the Year for Graduate Employment Award (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024)
Top 100 in Europe
We've been ranked 17th in the UK and 97th in Europe (Financial Times European Business Schools ranking 2024)
66th in the world
We’ve been ranked as 66th in the world for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2024)
Christian's story
Christian Nwachukwu shares his experience of studying MSc Entrepreneurship at Aston University
Davies' story
Watch MSc Entrepreneurship graduate Davies Okeowo share his journey after graduating from Aston University
Alana's story
From Harvard to Aston Business School; hear from MSc Entrepreneurship graduate, Alana Matos
Xinxin's story
Discover how Xinxin, an MSc Entrepreneurship graduate from Aston University, founded her skincare company, MyMaskology
We're serious about employability
As a postgraduate student, you will have access to dedicated careers guidance with specialist support from our experienced team of careers consultants
Course description
MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation
This cutting-edge programme creates the opportunity to develop entrepreneurship and innovation skills that are increasingly becoming needed for businesses today.
What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you. You will benefit from applied learning, research-informed teaching and constructive assessment.
We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.
What you will provide
It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies – understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, a willingness to learn and an ambition and drive to excel.
What skills we teach
The programme places a strong emphasis on understanding the complexities of international business, entrepreneurial strategy and innovation. You will gain in-depth knowledge about the intricacies of business creation and expansion, as well as an exploration of diverse enterprise models. It is structured to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, a critical asset for achieving success in the dynamic global market and within various organisational context
Career prospects
This course is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs or those expanding businesses, especially in international contexts. It prepares you for diverse professional and management roles across sectors and functions, and is a fitting first step towards a research or academic career in entrepreneurship or international business.
How you will learn
Our MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation programme offers you the opportunity to engage in workshops with specialist tutors and tutorials that apply your knowledge to real business scenarios. Aston University's virtual learning environment supports your journey, providing resources like e-books and online journals.
Hands-on projects, including creating descriptive analytics posters from real data, hone your data visualisation and interpretation skills, mirroring professional tasks. Interaction with guest speakers and access to networking events and career fairs connect you with industry experts and potential employers, enriching your educational experience and preparing you for a successful career in business
In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will enhance your employability and global citizenship through experiential learning and reflective practice. Dedicated employability support, skill-building workshops and diverse learning streams will prepare you for both academic and professional success.
At the start of your course, you will be allocated a personal tutor who can offer individual study advice and guidance. You will also benefit from access to the University Library's extensive collection of over 25,000 books and electronic journals.
Gain the advantage
Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.
What you will learn
The MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation programme at Aston University immerses you in the lifecycle of business ventures, from inception to international expansion. It covers diverse enterprise missions, from profit maximisation to social wealth creation, and explores family and corporate entrepreneurship. You will gain insights into global business environments and decision-making strategies.
In the taught stage, you will engage in practical tasks such as pitching business ideas, profiling entrepreneurial settings in emerging markets and analysing various entrepreneurship case studies. These activities develop your analytical skills and entrepreneurial mindset, essential for strategic decision-making and innovation in various markets.
In the dissertation phase, you will complete an independent project on an entrepreneurship topic of your choice, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research with a clear consideration of ethics, theory and methods.
Exceptional teaching
Davies Okeowo cherished his time at Aston University, especially appreciating the "exceptional knowledge base" and quality of the lecturers.
Learn business, do business
Our classroom goes beyond traditional lectures, focusing instead on real-life projects and hands-on experiences.
Course objectives
- Equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become innovative entrepreneurs and leaders capable of navigating and excelling in a rapidly changing business environment.
- Develops your ability to lead, manage and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including investors, customers, and entrepreneurial teams.
- Provides you with a deep understanding of the frameworks and strategies required to innovate and scale businesses.
- Encourages you to critically reflect on the ethical implications of their entrepreneurial actions and the broader impact of entrepreneurship on society.
- Develops your practical skills in digital transformation, financial management, risk management and strategic planning to manage and scale resilient business ventures for long term success in a digital and globalised economy.
- Provides you with the opportunity to enhance your employability skills by equipping you with key professional skills and competencies required for success in a global business context.
Modules
Modules and programme outcomes
Taught stage modules
In the taught stage you will study the following core modules in Term 1:
| Module Title | Credits |
| Enterprise Experience This module offers you a dynamic, hands-on experience of managing a small business through a virtual simulation. You will develop essential entrepreneurial skills, making strategic decisions across different stages of the business cycle. The focus is on fostering enterprise, employability, and sustainability by teaching how to build profitable, socially responsible businesses. The simulation provides a realistic environment to explore leadership, teamwork, and business strategy, all supported by technology. This immersive experience prepares you for starting and managing your own enterprises, equipping you with the skills and insights to thrive in a sustainable, modern business landscape. | 15 |
| Developing Enterprise Skills Developing Enterprise Skills is essential for developing the core skills and knowledge needed to succeed in enterprise, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It introduces you to postgraduate study in the UK while fostering employability through experiential learning, focusing on practical, real-world business challenges. You will develop leadership, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills while understanding how to create and manage sustainable, ethical businesses that align with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Through engaging with entrepreneurial ecosystems and hands-on projects, you will enhance your ability to adapt to dynamic global markets. The module’s emphasis on employability, enterprise skills, and innovation equips you to thrive in diverse career paths, whether launching your own ventures or leading within established organisations. | 15 |
You will choose one of the following optional modules:*
| Module Title | Credits |
| Social Enterprise This module offers an immersive learning experience in social enterprise, where you explore the intersection of business and social impact. By blending theory with practical application, you will learn to create and manage ventures that address societal challenges while remaining financially sustainable. Through experiential learning - including case studies, interactive discussions, and real-world projects - you will gain the skills to lead and innovate in social enterprises. The module emphasises enterprise, employability, and sustainability, equipping you with the tools to drive social change, build meaningful careers, and develop ethical businesses that benefit both communities and the environment. | 15 |
| Marketing Management This module introduces you to the world of marketing. The module outlines the development of the marketing concept and its importance within a real-world context. You will work in small groups to develop and present marketing plans within an experiential situation using appropriate marketing theories, frameworks and tools. You will learn to conduct situational analyses, formulate suitable strategies and measure the results using appropriate metrics. You will develop, implement and reflect upon your marketing planning knowledge and skills in an authentic situation which will support your future employability or entrepreneurial ambitions. | 15 |
| Globalisation of Innovation This module explores the globalisation of innovation, focusing on the interplay between firm strategy, innovation management and technological competitiveness. You will examine how global companies develop, manage and profit from innovation across diverse markets, while navigating global variations in national innovation policies and systems. The module emphasises real-world applications through case studies and practical exercises, equipping you with the skills to strategically manage innovation on a global scale. By examining collaborative R&D, intellectual property and the diffusion of innovations across borders, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how companies leverage innovation for sustained competitive advantage in an ever-evolving global environment. | 15 |
In Term 2 you will study the following core modules:
| Module Title | Credits |
| Enterprise Strategy This module is designed to develop your analytical and practical skills for evaluating business opportunities. It covers theoretical concepts to deepen understanding of entrepreneurship across various contexts, including commercial start-ups, social enterprises, family businesses, and corporate venturing. Through in-class exercises and case studies, you will practice and apply entrepreneurial skills. The module seeks to foster an entrepreneurial culture among postgraduates and encourage considering entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Additionally, guest lectures from successful entrepreneurs will provide real-world insights, enhancing your learning experience and connection to practical entrepreneurship. | 15 |
| The Aston Global Advantage The Aston Global Advantage is our professional development programme that runs throughout all MSc programmes at Aston Business School. Focusing on professional development and employability, this integrated module gives you the opportunity to identify, develop and apply the key transferrable skills you will gain throughout the year. | 15 |
You will choose one of the following optional modules:*
| Module Title | Credits |
| Enterprise Trends and Opportunities This module offers an in-depth exploration of emerging trends and future opportunities in enterprise, focusing on how shifts in technology, sustainability, and consumer behaviour shape business. You will critically assess how these changes impact market dynamics, gaining skills to identify and capitalise on new business opportunities. Through experiential learning, including case studies, real-world scenarios, and strategic frameworks, you will learn to develop innovative, sustainable solutions that meet evolving market needs. The module emphasises enterprise and employability, equipping you with the knowledge and practical tools to thrive in a rapidly changing entrepreneurial ecosystem, adapt to future trends, and drive sustainable business growth in a competitive landscape. | 15 |
| Advanced Corporate Finance This modules provides you with a deep understanding of key financial concepts essential for corporate decision-making. You will learn to calculate cost of capital and apply investment appraisal techniques, including the evaluation of real options, to assess project viability. The module covers capital structure theories, enabling you to analyse optimal financing strategies for firms. Additionally, you will explore payout policies, understanding how dividend decisions impact shareholder value. Lastly, a focus on corporate governance teaches you the importance of ethical practices and regulatory frameworks in fostering sustainable business growth. | 15 |
| Entrepreneurial Marketing This module outlines the development of entrepreneurial marketing and its importance within a real-world context. You will develop and present a business plan using appropriate marketing theories, frameworks and tools. You will develop, implement and reflect upon their entrepreneurial planning knowledge and skills in an authentic situation which will support your future employability or entrepreneurial ambitions. | 15 |
In Term 3 you will study the following core modules:
| Module Title | Credits |
| Innovation Management and Design Innovation Management and Design introduces you to the dynamic intersection of innovation processes and design thinking. Through immersive, experiential learning, you will develop the skills to manage innovation in real-world contexts, applying human-centred design methodologies to tackle complex business challenges. The module emphasises employability and enterprise by equipping you with practical tools for ideation, prototyping, and strategic innovation management. It also integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, focusing on sustainable and ethical design. By combining theory with hands-on projects, you will gain critical insights into leading innovation in various industries. This module will enhance your ability to drive creative solutions, making you valuable assets in today’s competitive, innovation-driven job market. | 15 |
Applied Research Methods and Skills | 15 |
You will choose one of the following optional modules:*
| Module Title | Credits |
| Coaching Self and others This module equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills to coach both themselves and others effectively, a critical competency in today's dynamic business environment. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and experiential learning, you will develop the self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills required for effective coaching. The module explores key coaching models, techniques, and their application across business contexts. You will engage in reflective practice and peer coaching sessions to enhance their ability to facilitate personal and professional development. With a focus on employability, leadership, and team dynamics, this module prepares you to foster individual and organisational growth in alignment with ethical practices and the UN SDGs. | 15 |
| Digital Venture and Entrepreneurship The module equips you with comprehensive knowledge of the processes involved in creating new digital ventures, including understanding various funding options and securing financial backing. You will develop the skills necessary to critically evaluate how web-based systems interact with business models and processes. By examining a range of issues surrounding the commercial applications of information technologies, you will gain insights into how digital tools impact modern businesses. The module challenges you to apply your technical expertise and project management skills to real-world entrepreneurial tasks, encouraging innovation and practical problem-solving. This combination of theory and practical application will help you to develop a well-rounded approach to entrepreneurship and the technological landscape driving business growth. | 15 |
| Sustainability in International Business In the context of today’s dynamic global marketplace, sustainability has evolved from a buzzword to a fundamental element of strategic planning in international business. There is an increasing demand for corporate social responsibility, driven by diverse stakeholders including customers, shareholders, suppliers, and partners. For companies operating internationally, sustainability entails far more than the implementation of sustainable practices; it represents a strategic avenue to achieve a competitive edge. This module considers these critical issues and beyond, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the implications of sustainability for global business strategies, encompassing both the challenges and the opportunities it presents. | 15 |
*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.
Dissertation stage modules
In the dissertation stage you will study the following core modules:
| Module Title | Credits |
| Independent Project The research project offers a unique opportunity for you to take the initiative and dive deep into a specific topic, fostering personal and academic growth. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in the taught portion of the programme, this module sharpens essential analytical and academic skills for lifelong learning in today's dynamic business landscape. By conducting independent empirical or theoretical research, you will gain a deeper understanding of their chosen subject and contribute to the field. Additionally, this module serves as a stepping stone for those considering further research degrees. | 45 |
Programme outcomes
On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders and ecosystems including investors, customers, and team members to co-create value.
- Explore and apply leadership skills in managing resources within diverse entrepreneurial teams to foster a culture of creativity.
- Identify and apply business models, strategies and processes that foster innovation in both start up and established organisations.
- Develop critical thinking skills and awareness of cognitive biases to identify entrepreneurial opportunities, assess feasibility, and formulate an innovative business strategy.
- Strategically evaluate and apply principles of digital transformation, financial management, project management, marketing, planning and risk management and in the development and scaling up of resilient business ventures.
- Critically reflect on the ethical implications of entrepreneurship and innovation particularly in relation to sustainability, social responsibility, and global developments.
- Critically evaluate and apply a diverse set of transferable skills essential for a successful career in entrepreneurship contributing to enhanced employability.
- Undertake independent research by formulating well-defined research questions, critically evaluating, and applying appropriate research techniques, and drawing informed conclusions and recommendations.
We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.
Entry requirements
One of the following:
- 2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent
- Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information)
You will also need to provide:
- A professional reference
- If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
- If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
- An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
- A completed application form.
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.
Qualifications in your country
For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:
- Africa
- Americas
- Australia
- North East Asia
- Europe
- Middle East and North Africa
- South Asia
- South East Asia
- Western and Central Asia
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.
How to apply
Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.
Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.
Post-study work visa
Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Pathway programmes
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.
We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.
The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.
Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.
Speak to our Admissions Team
If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:
Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk
Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 09:30-16:30)
Meet your programme director
Jocelyne Fleming
Programme Director, MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation
If you have any questions about the course or modules you will be studying, you can get in touch via email and I will be happy to answer your queries.
Fees and scholarships
Course fees
UK students
(2025/26)
| Annual tuition fees: | £12,000 |
International students
(2025/26)
| Annual tuition fees: | £23,500 |
More information on fees
The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.
Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.
Scholarships
At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.
Assessment
There are a variety of assessment methods, including exams, coursework, live business cases, poster design, presentations and group work. For our assessments, we use real or fictitious business scenarios. The practical assessments help you to develop the skills and competencies required for future job roles.
Career prospects
If you're planning to set up your own business or develop an existing enterprise, particularly in an international context, this course is highly relevant for you. It prepares you for a wide range of professional and management careers across various business functions and sectors. It is also a suitable first step if you plan to pursue a research or academic career in entrepreneurship or international business.
You will develop a broad array of technical and transferable skills that employers highly value. These skills include effective communication and teamwork, the ability to develop and critically evaluate entrepreneurial business strategies, proficiency in report writing and presentations and the capacity to explain theories and conduct thorough investigations on various topics.
Graduates are successful in finding employment in a wide range of roles such as:
- Entrepreneur
- Business adviser
- CEO
- Company founder
- Civil servant
- Innovation consultant
- Product owner
- Product development director
Global insights
After graduating from Harvard University, Alana wanted to find a masters programme in entrepreneurship with an international focus; Aston University offered just that.
Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.
Be part of our community
Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.
Frequently asked questions
Why study Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Aston University?
Entrepreneurship is an area in which Aston Business School really excels. Along with fantastic course content, you’ll benefit from the business incubator located on campus. BSEEN (Birmingham Skills for Enterprise and Employability Network) offers workshops, tailored business support, and grants to students and graduates embarking on new business ventures. Our extensive industry links can also provide you with mentoring opportunities.
What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?
Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed, year-long credit-bearing module aims to develop professional and personal transferrable skills relevant to any workplace and create a bridge between the degree and the world of work.
Why should I study my postgraduate degree at Aston University?
There are lots of benefits of studying a postgraduate degree at Aston University.
Watch this video from MBA student, Monique, who talks about just a few of them:
Is Birmingham a good place to study?
Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.
- Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
- Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
- World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
- Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
- Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
- Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.
What will my timetable look like?
We understand how important it is to know your timetable in advance for planning around work, childcare, or other responsibilities. Here's some basic guidance on what to expect regarding your student timetable.
| Full-time programmes |
| As a rough estimate, full-time postgraduate students in the College of Business and Social Sciences should expect to spend about 12-15 hours per week in lectures and on-campus seminars. This is in addition to independent study, and there may be additional guided learning activities during certain weeks. The exact distribution of these hours will vary depending on your course and module choices. |
| Part-time programmes |
| Part-time students will have fewer weekly on-campus hours compared to full-time students. This reduction is proportional to the number of modules you're enrolled in. |
| Timetable availability |
| Complete timetables are usually released shortly before the start of your programme. This timing is necessary to ensure that we accommodate all course requirements and that rooms are allocated based on the number of students likely to enrol on each programme. We aim to provide these timetables as early as possible, to assist you in your planning. |
As your induction week approaches, you will be sent more information about your timetable via email, and you will be able to access your timetable by logging into MyAstonPortal. For any further queries or information regarding your timetable, you can reach out to your programme director or the Student Support team.
| Online/distance learning programmes |
| The above information also applies to students enrolled in online/distance learning programmes. Please note that both full-time and part-time distance learning students are still required to attend scheduled synchronous learning sessions. |
What can I get involved in at Aston Business School?
At Aston Business School, you will dive into a dynamic blend of innovative learning and hands-on experiences. With our acclaimed triple-crown accreditation, we offer you academic excellence and a track record of producing successful graduates.
Located in Birmingham, the UK's vibrant second city, Aston Business School provides you with a culturally rich environment and superb connectivity. You will benefit from real-world business engagements, international study opportunities and entrepreneur support programmes like BSEEN and Pitchfest.
You can also engage in practical consultancy at the Aston Business Clinic and collaborate with global peers in events such as the Maastricht Case Competition or the Universities Business Challenge. Our partnership with The Prince’s Trust, alongside a range of student clubs including TEDx and Enactus further enriches your learning experience.
Hello, what would you like to ask us?
Hello! We are a team of current Aston University students from various parts of the world, studying a wide range of postgraduate subjects.
Feel free to ask us anything about studying at Aston University.
