Postgraduate MSc

International Business

Attendance

Full-time

Course

One year

Next enrolment

June 2025

Introduction

In a nutshell

International applicants: please check the international intakes page for the latest information and application dates.

This course is designed for recent graduates who want to manage organisations across different countries. You'll gain the knowledge and skills to handle the challenges of working in a global, digital world that is increasingly characterised by risk and uncertainties.

During the course, you'll learn about the factors that influence international business decisions and activities. You'll explore new issues and trends in the field and understand the challenges and opportunities managers face in key business areas. You'll also develop an appreciation of cultural intelligence, which is important for interacting and leading effectively across different cultures. Additionally, you'll improve your digital awareness by studying the growth of international digital business and learn what it means for a business to show responsible leadership and citizenship in various situations.

The course is very industry-focused and ends with either an international consultancy project or a work-based internship or placement project, allowing you to put what you've learned into practice.

  • Examine the forces that shape and influence international business decisions and activities.
  • Develop knowledge and understanding of the challenges and opportunities managers face in a global environment.
  • Develop an appreciation of the importance of cultural intelligence for interacting and leading effectively across cultures.

The MSc International Business programme is accredited by EFMD, a leading international system for quality assessment and accreditation of business programmes. This accreditation ensures the quality of the course.

Why Salford Business School?

Situated at the heart of Greater Manchester's business, finance and digital sector, Salford Business School is perfectly placed as a dynamic hub for the development and exchange of knowledge.

We combine cutting-edge learning with strong industry connections, preparing you to lead change in the fast-paced world of business and management.

Find out more about our school and community

To find out more, register for a Postgraduate Open Days or learn more about our master's courses in business, finance and law.

Placement

options available

International

students accepted

This programme is accredited by EFMD.

This is for you if...

1.

You aspire to manage across national borders and interact and lead effectively across cultures.

2.

You want to develop a global perspective of the connections between people, information, trade and capital around the world

3.

You are passionate about confronting the challenges of operating in a global, interconnected world.

Course details

All about the course

You will complete 180 credits in total – 120 credits of core modules followed by a final 60-credit module. Before the end of your first trimester, you will choose from one of the three pathways listed below for the final 60 credits of the course.

All core modules are six weeks long; 15-credit modules will run simultaneously in pairs over a six-week period, while the 30-credit foundational module will be delivered standalone over a six-week period. There are six hours of teaching per week on the 30-credit foundational module and four hours of teaching per week on the 15-credit modules. Throughout the course, you will also undertake substantial independent study.

"The university's strong reputation and hands-on learning approach were exactly what I was looking for. The modern facilities and industry connections delivered real-world experience that was invaluable." - Prathesh, MSc International Business. Read the full story on Prospects. 

Modules

International Business Foundations and Trends

This module will provide you with the foundation for the remainder of the course. Within the wider context of globalisation you will learn about the reasons why firms engage in international business.  You will then consider how country and regional-level factors may influence international business decisions and activities. You will then be introduced to some of the key theories of international business and how these contrast with more recent ideas, before seeing how the context and theory of international business connect to emerging issues and trends in the fields of practice and research.

Cross-Cultural Leadership Skills

This module will focus on developing your cross-cultural leadership skills. You will begin by examining different approaches to describing and understanding cross-cultural similarities and differences between and within nations, organisations and associated varieties of capitalism. You will then develop a critical and practical understanding of cultural intelligence as a core capability to interact and lead effectively across cultures. You will then explore how cultural intelligence can be applied in key areas of cross-cultural leadership (communication, negotiation, motivation, leadership, team working).

International Marketing

This module will focus on key issues in international marketing - the interface between firms and their customers around the globe. You will be introduced to the topic through consideration of key international marketing concepts, models and theories. You will then examine cultural diversity and ethical issues and their implications for firms engaged in international marketing before going on to explore the various strategic decisions firms must make in order to successfully engage with different markets. The module will conclude by evaluating the use and impact of digital tools in international marketing.

International Supply Chain Management

On this module you will begin by examining key international supply chain concepts and practices and the contribution of international supply chains to an organisation’s competitive advantage. You will also develop an appreciation of the ethical challenges firms face in managing their international supply chains. You will examine and evaluate different international supply chain strategies such as outsourcing, offshoring and reshoring and the socio-economic and environmental impacts such strategies may have. Finally, you will appraise the challenges firms increasingly face in managing vulnerability within - and building resilience into - their international supply chains.

International Financial Management

You will begin by examining key dimensions of international financial management and their significance for companies. The tools that financial managers can use in order to achieve their international market targets will then be explored. Consideration will then be given to the different risks managers face in international financial markets and the methods and instruments that can be used to help mitigate these risks. The module will conclude by appraising ethical issues and dilemmas in international financial markets and the implications of these for companies.

International Business and the Digital Economy

This module will begin by revisiting mainstream international business thinking within the context of the highly digitalised environment in which international business now takes place. We will then examine the impact of digital platforms on the shaping of international business strategies and decisions, as well as the role they play in the international expansion of small-to-medium sized enterprises. 

Particular consideration will be given to Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the current international business scenario and how it can be applied to key aspects of international business strategies, practices and activities. 

The module will conclude by examining the future challenges and trends of the digital economy for international business.

Globally Responsible Leadership and Citizenship

This module will encourage you to reflect critically on what it means for organisations to demonstrate responsible leadership and citizenship within a global context. You will explore factors that may enable or constrain organisations in their pursuit of becoming purpose-led. Particular consideration will be given to how - through the simultaneous enhancement of competitiveness and creation of positive social and/or environmental impact - globally responsible leadership and citizenship may contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. 

As part of this module, you will also develop your carbon literacy with the opportunity to obtain Carbon Literacy certification upon successful submission of a carbon literacy pledge.

You will then choose your final 60-credit option. 

Work Placement

In order to prepare for this pathway, you will undertake the following 15-credit module in your second trimester:

  • Research Methods for Managers (15 credits; taught module): This is an applied module that focuses on practical research methodologies and techniques for conducting research and prepares you for the Business Internship pathway (or Business Dissertation, should you be unsuccessful in securing a Business Internship).

You will then undertake the following:

  • Work Placement (45 credits): A full-time placement of up to 12 months within a workplace (subject to availability and visa compliance).

Please note: Should you be unsuccessful in securing a work placement, you will instead be required to undertake a 45-credit business dissertation, where you will select a particular topic you are interested in for further in-depth study.

Business Internship

In order to prepare for this pathway, you will undertake the following 15-credit module in your second trimester:

  • Research Methods for Managers (15 credits): This is an applied module that focuses on practical research methodologies and techniques for conducting research and prepares you for the business internship pathway.

 You will then undertake the following in your third trimester:

  • Business Internship (45 credits): A 3-month experiential opportunity within an organisation, focusing on real-world issues (subject to availability and visa compliance).

Please note: Should you be unsuccessful in securing an internship, you will instead be required to undertake a 45-credit business dissertation, where you will select a particular topic you are interested in for further in-depth study.

International Consultancy Project

You will begin this pathway by undertaking 2 15-credit modules:

  • Researching International Market Opportunities (15 credits): You will examine different aspects of the international market opportunity assessment process and the methodologies and tools managers can use to undertake the research required. Internal aspects that are specific to a company – such as the extent to which a company is ready to internationalise - will be considered. External aspects of the wider international market environment, – such as country and industry attractiveness, will also be explored. On completion of the module, you will be able to source, analyse and evaluate data to develop recommendations for international market expansion.
  • International Entry Strategies (15 credits): In addition to assessing international market opportunities, companies looking to expand overseas need to consider when to enter a chosen market, on what scale and in which way. You will begin by examining the dilemma of whether a company should standardise its offering for all international markets or adapt its offering according to the specifics of individual markets. You will then examine the issues of timing, scale and mode of entry into a chosen market and how these may vary according to the context of the company and its offering, the company’s competitive environment and the target market.

You will then undertake the following 30-credit final project:

  • International Consultancy Project (30 credits): This capstone module follows successful completion of the above 15-credit modules. You will first learn about the key skills required to act as an effective consultant. You will then a project on behalf of a client organisation, which will provide you with the opportunity to engage in a piece of independent consultancy research that enables you to consolidate and apply the knowledge and understanding you have gained throughout the course while developing market insights and strategic recommendations to be shared with the client organisation

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

Teaching

Our teaching is designed to support your career goals. You will practice global thinking and ethical, responsible and sustainable practices, helping you become a competent leader or manager.

We use various methods to support your learning. Typically, a module includes a mix of activities, such as interactive lectures on specific topics. Your tutor introduces and explains key concepts, which are reinforced through class discussions and case study analysis to help you understand and prepare for assessments. You will be encouraged to share examples from your own work experience. At the start of each module, you will receive an outline of the syllabus and a reading list, which will guide your self-directed study.

Assessment

Your studies will benefit from a range of assessment techniques, including individual written reports, simulations modelling reports, portfolios and project reports.

Student support

Taking the leap from undergraduate study? Returning after a study break? Or joining us as an international student? Whatever your situation, we’re committed to supporting you throughout your studies. Find out more about our support for postgraduate students.

Programme Leader

Dr Adrian Monaghan

Dr Adrian Monaghan joined Salford Business School in 2010 and is a Senior Lecturer and the Programme Leader for MSc International Business. 

Adrian has substantial experience in designing and leading postgraduate programmes and his teaching interests cut across international business, strategy and the creation of value for business, society and the natural environment. His industry and global interests are equally diverse, ranging from the British funeral sector to the sustainable development of the urban and rural economies of Thailand.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

There is no typical career path for a student who successfully completes this course. Instead, graduates' careers can take many different directions, spanning multinational firms, start-up and family businesses, governmental organisations and departments and higher education institutions.

Examples of private sector roles that graduates have gone onto include: Marketing Director (Molson Coors); Business Development Manager (Shell); Head of Business Strategy, Excellence and Quality (Siemens); Head of Commercial Delivery (Boost.ai).

Other graduates have gone on to enjoy public sector roles including Trade Policy Officer (British Embassy) and Civil Servant (Mongolian Ministry of Mining & Heavy Industry), whilst others have remained within the university sector, developing academic careers in various higher education institutions around the globe such as China, Vietnam and the UK.

A taste of what you could become

An international business manager

An international business consultant

An international market researcher

An international business development manager

An international trade officer

And more...

Career Links

This course has been designed in consultation with a range of partners spanning a number of different sectors, from multinational firms to international growth specialists to public-private partnership initiatives that grow international connectivity.

The course works with a number of organisations engaged in different aspects of international business. You will have the opportunity to hear guest speakers sharing their insights and experiences. You'll also experience client firms developing opportunities for the final consultancy project, work-based internship and placement opportunities.

"The modules were very interesting and the topics were very close to issues happening in the current economic climate. All my lecturers were very knowledgeable and interactive; they engaged us in active discussion on current affairs and debates." - Jace Lee Yee Wen. Business Development Manager 

Requirements

What you need to know

Applicant profile

As well as being an aspiring manager who wants to expand your knowledge and enhance your career prospects, you should have a strong interest in international issues and trends. You should be keen to develop a global perspective that will enable you to appreciate how people, information, trade and capital are connected and flow across national borders and around the world. You must be prepared to undertake substantial independent learning and be committed to your personal and professional development.

English Language Requirements

International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element below 5.5) is proof of this. If you need to improve your written and spoken English, you might be interested in our English language courses.

Find out about dedicated support for international applicants.

Standard entry requirements

Undergraduate degree

Normally a minimum 2:2 honours degree or equivalent. A wide range of professional qualifications are also accepted, either in partial or complete fulfilment of entry requirements.

International students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.

Alternative entry requirements

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

How much?

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2024/25 £8,550 per year
Full-time international 2024/25 £16,560 per year
Full-time home 2025/26 £8,550 per year
Full-time international 2025/26 £16,560 per year

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. For more information please see our funding section

International applicants 

If you are applying from overseas and are accepted onto the programme with placement, there will be additional costs associated with visa extensions. These include:

  1. Extending your student visa fee (visit gov.uk for more information). Please note, this is in addition to your original student visa fee.
  2. Tier 4 biometrics enrolment fee.
  3. Immigration Health Surcharge 12 month fee (visit gov.uk for more information).

Visit Immigration and Visa FAQ and read the section on extending your Tier 4 visa for further information.

International scholarships

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our international scholarships.

Apply now

All set? Let's apply!

Still have some questions? Register for one of our Postgraduate Open Days or contact us:

By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By phone: +44 (0)161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

June 2025

September 2025

January 2026

June 2026

September 2026