International Business

Course overview

Throughout this degree, you will delve into cross-border operations, examine various business functions and their role in international commerce alongside exploring strategic management and economics in an international business context. You will gain versatile skills to pursue diverse career paths and excel in global management roles.

More than an academic course, this programme bridges your formal education with experiential learning. You will be supported by leading academics and practitioners who are experts in the fields of international business, ensuring your studies are contemporary and applicable.

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.

The benefits of block teaching are numerous: it supports a balanced study-life experience, reduces the stress of multitasking across various subjects, and fosters a better understanding of each topic by concentrating on it fully. Students are more engaged, motivated, and resilient, which can lead to better learning outcomes and a healthier environment.

“I always knew I wanted to create a start-up business and Aston University equipped me to become an entrepreneur. I have since founded PALM LIFE, which supplies biodegradable tableware made from naturally fallen leaves."

Adil Delwar

MSc International Business

Founder and CEO, PALM LIFE®️

Why International Business at Aston University?

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

Joint 11th the UK

Aston Business School is ranked joint 11th the UK (Eduniversal Business School Rankings 2024)

Top 100 in Europe

We've been ranked 17th in the UK and 97th in Europe (Financial Times European Business Schools ranking 2024)

4th in the UK

We have been ranked 4th in the UK and 20th in Europe (International Management; Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings, 2024)

87th in the world

We’ve been ranked as 87th in the world and 11th in the UK for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2025)

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

Gain a competitive edge

As well as opening doors, an Aston University postgraduate degree builds on your experience, develops your skills and gives you a competitive edge in a crowded job market.

Course description

MSc International Business

Our MSc International Business programme provides in-depth insights and understanding of the contemporary business landscape, tailored for both recent graduates and working professionals from local, national and international backgrounds.

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. MSc International Business will give you the ability to think strategically and deliver successful international business strategies.

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. It is important to engage in self-directed learning and take full advantage of the knowledge and resources available throughout your degree.

What skills we teach
Through lectures, collaborative group discussions and applied learning, you will develop key skills sought after by employers, including teamwork, communication and leadership. You will develop critical analysis, strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities applicable across diverse situations. You will gain a knack for applying theory to real-world scenarios, deepening world understanding.

Career prospects
As an Aston University International Business graduate, you will be equipped for a range of different career options. Graduates have been successful in finding employment in roles such as management consultant, research analyst and strategy consultant, working for companies like HSBC and KPMG.

How you will learn

Our International Business course at Aston University provides an immersive learning journey, leveraging the expertise of our academic staff, known for their research and consultancy. We capitalise on our robust connections with business, professional and public sector organisations to enhance your real-world understanding. The course is structured to boost your employability, focusing on lifelong learning and personal development skills.

Through practical teaching methods, including interactive lectures, group seminars, and workshops led by experienced academic staff, you will engage in lively discussions and explore diverse viewpoints. Traditional teaching is supported by our virtual learning environment, which hosts a range of electronic supporting materials.

In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will gain a competitive edge by honing your professional skills and preparing for success in a fast-paced global environment. You will tackle real-world challenges, dive into entrepreneurship and work on team-based business simulations.

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.

Our postgraduate programmes use a block learning structure. Block teaching condenses traditional semester-long courses into focused, consecutive blocks of learning. The ethos is to give students more time to engage with their learning by studying one subject at a time, instead of several at once.

Student holding laptop in student study space

Gain the advantage

Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.

The Aston Global Advantage

What you will learn

Our programme blends specialised knowledge with practical skills, covering the fundamentals of international business. Exploring diverse theories and concepts, the course unpacks the dynamics of international trade, examines how companies structure their overseas operations and evaluates the influence of foreign direct investment on host countries. We also provide the opportunity to develop your entrepreneurial skills, for those seeking to become international entrepreneurs or work intrapreneurially within organisations.

In the taught stage, you will delve into advanced international business topics. You will analyse various international business strategies and compare business dynamics in developing economies to more economically developed countries. You will also explore factors influencing international business strategies, such as economic, management and policy issues, developing your ability to think strategically and deliver successful international business strategy.

The programme also emphasises transferable skills like teamwork, leadership and communication, equipping you for a versatile career in international business.

In the project phase, you will have the opportunity to examine a topic, problem, or opportunity in greater depth. In doing so you will develop skills in defining a topic area, carrying out an analytic literature review, selecting and using appropriate methodologies, finding and managing relevant data, planning and conducting a complex piece of work, undertaking critical analysis and presenting a well-structured, lucid report with appropriate conclusions and referencing.

Impact on people and finance

Ben chose to study MSc International Business at Aston University because of its reputation as a leading business school in the middle of a vibrant city.

Discover Ben's journey

Learn business, do business

Our classroom goes beyond traditional lectures, focusing instead on real-life projects and hands-on experiences.

Student experience

Course objectives

Prepares future leaders to make strategic, informed decisions in complex global environments, through acquiring a comprehensive knowledge of the global business landscape.
Develops graduates to analyse shifting competitive advantages and the effects of economic, political, social, and technological trends in international business.
Provides a learning environment that effectively blends academic study with practical insights, leveraging Aston University's industry connections and academic expertise.
Encourages graduates to reflect on and develop their knowledge and skills, emphasising corporate responsibility, ethical decision-making, effective governance and sustainability empowering you to create positive impact.
Enhances research and critical-thinking skills to enable graduates to leverage data effectively in international business, empowering you to make data-driven strategic decisions that contribute to success in the global market.
Provides graduates 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

You will study:

Two 15 credit modules in terms 1,2 and 3 and each module is 5 weeks long. You only study one block module at a time.
Each term, you will engage in one of three core modules, focusing on foundational knowledge and skills, professional skills development, and research methods. These core modules span 11 weeks and run concurrently with shorter block 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
Principles of International Business This module provides a comprehensive exploration of key topics in international business and management, offering you both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. It introduces essential theories and practices in international business, with a focus on navigating the complexities of global markets. Key areas of study include international trade, foreign direct investment, multinational enterprises, the global business environment, and international business strategy. You will engage in active, hands-on research to tackle real-world challenges faced by firms in today’s highly competitive global marketplace, applying your accumulated knowledge and analytical skills to devise effective solutions and strategies for success	15

You will choose one of the following optional modules:*

Module Title	Credits
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 students 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
Social Enterprise This module offers an immersive learning experience in social enterprise, where you will 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 students with the tools to drive social change, build meaningful careers, and develop ethical businesses that benefit both communities and the environment.	15

In Term 2 you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
International Business Strategy The module explores the strategic challenges and opportunities that firms face in a globalized economy. It analyses key factors influencing international business decisions, including market entry strategies, competitive advantage in different regions, and the impact of political, economic, and cultural environments. The module covers strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and the management of multinational enterprises. By integrating theory with real-world case studies, you will develop the skills to formulate and implement effective international strategies, assess global risks, and adapt to the complexities of operating across borders in a dynamic business environment.	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, students 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
International Corporate Governance This module addresses (i) the governance of corporations, and (ii) wider national frameworks of corporate governance, which include the institutional underpinning of economic transactions that protect property rights, enforce contracts, and organise collective action. Those corporate governance frameworks provides the infrastructure of rules, regulations, and information needed for cooperation and exchange among different economic actors, including individuals and corporations. In turn, internal governance of corporations reconciles different interests of multiple stakeholders, including owners, managers and employees, in order to minimise conflicts and ensure effective cooperation needed for business success.	15
International Marketing This module introduces you to the scope and role of marketing within national and international organisations and the dynamic business environment in which they operate. Many businesses today have expanded and are continuing to grow in the global arena in search of higher profits and market share. Their success largely depends on their ability to apply business concepts in foreign markets as well as responding and adapting to global challenges. Thus, marketing concepts and analytical frameworks which can be used in practice will be presented to you throughout the module.	15

In Term 3 you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
International Economics Environment This module introduces you to key economic factors that shape global business strategies. You will explore how these forces influence the decision-making of firms in the context of dynamic global markets. You will critically analyse real-world economic issues that affect global business operations. Through economic modelling, the use of case studies, and comparative economic analysis, you will develop skills as to how firms develop strategies to deal with the complex economic environment. This module is essential for understanding global market dynamics. It equips you with the analytical tools to navigate economic challenges, enhancing both their strategic thinking and employability.	15
Applied Research Methods and Skills This is an exciting opportunity for you to develop key problem solving and research skills which will allow you to follow your passion, use the strengths and interests developed during your degree, and creatively learn how ethically to explore this. This module equips managers and leaders of the future with the skills critically to evaluate research-based information. It covers various research methods and techniques, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.	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 yourself 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.	15
Digital Marketing The rapid growth of digital media has significantly transformed how businesses connect, engage, interact, and build relationships with consumers. This module examines digital marketing's opportunities and challenges from theoretical and practical perspectives. It explores how digital media transforms business-consumer interactions and provides a critical understanding of integrating digital media into broader marketing and business strategies. Emphasising both theory and hands-on learning, the module covers key concepts and practices related to digital marketing. The module will equip you with the tools to assess and refine marketing strategies. You will apply and analyse the impact of developing a digital and interactive marketing strategy for a business.	15
Fundamentals of Business Analytics We introduce you to key analytical techniques widely used in industry to support data-driven decision-making. You will explore fundamental topics in statistics, including types of data, data distributions, sampling methods, and statistical tests, all of which are essential for discovering important patterns and relationships within data. We cover basic statistical modelling methods, such as linear regression, to help you model economic outcomes and assess the effects of various factors. By the end of the module, you will be equipped with the skills to apply relevant analytics techniques to address practical business challenges effectively.	15
Sustainability in International Business This module aims to support you in developing a comprehensive understanding of the global business environment and the strategic challenges faced by international businesses from sustainability perspective. It explores how sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility can create competitive advantages while addressing socio-environmental and economic impacts. Through case studies and practical applications, you will critically analyse real-world scenarios, deepening your ability to apply key concepts to contemporary global business challenges.	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 module:

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 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.

Programme outcomes

On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:

Critically analyse and apply core theories of international business to the global business landscape to make strategic, informed decisions in complex international environments.
Critically evaluate the impact of economic, political, social, and technological trends on international business operations and competitive strategies.
Reflect on and explain corporate responsibility and ethical decision-making, designing initiatives that promote sustainability and governance in international business aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Rigorously assess business opportunities, develop innovative strategies, and apply entrepreneurial principles used to launch and manage sustainable ventures in diverse markets, while effectively managing risk and leveraging resources for growth.
Work effectively as an independent, self-managed learner, to complete given tasks and communicate appropriately to the setting, task and audience.
Critically evaluate and apply a diverse set of transferable skills essential for a successful career in International Business 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:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

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.

Find out more about applying

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.

Graduate Immigration Route

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)

Read our guide to applying

Meet your programme directors

Jocelyne Fleming
Joint Programme Director, MSc International Business

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.

Get in touch

Jason Evans
Joint Programme Director, MSc International Business

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.

Get in touch

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.

Fees and funding

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.

Explore scholarships for UK students

Explore scholarships for international students

Assessment

There are a variety of assessment methods, including exams, coursework, briefing notes, presentations, and group work. Assessments help you to develop the skills and competencies required for future job roles.

Career prospects

The transferable skills that our international business programme provides mean that our graduates are successful in finding employment in a wide range of roles such as:

Management consultant
Strategy consultant
Recruitment director
Management trainee
International manager
Research analyst
Marketing manager
Sales manager
Entrepreneur

Our graduates have gone on to set up their own businesses or work at companies such as HSBC, IBM, Unilever, Vodafone, Hertz-Bosch. PwC, KPMG, Barclays and Tesco.

Industry professionals

“The extra specialisation has gone a long way in building my career. The MSc gave me a lot of learning and development opportunities which helped me to explore my options.”

Discover Vishnu's journey

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.

Hear from our graduates

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently asked questions

Why study International Business at Aston University?

You’ll develop a breadth of transferable skills, from cultural awareness through to problem-solving, within an international perspective across business functions.
Our world leading Aston Business School, with triple accreditation, prides itself on our teaching quality and research excellence as well as equipping students with practical skills that boost their employability once they graduate. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to bring your learning to life with hands-on opportunities to gain experience.

What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?

Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed 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.

The Aston Global Advantage

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.

Discover Birmingham

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.

MyAstonPortal

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.

Discover more