Elevate your global career with the University of Birmingham’s Online MSc International Business. Delivered by the triple-crown accredited Birmingham Business School, this flexible online programme is designed for ambitious professionals ready to lead in a fast-moving global market.
Stand out with an MSc that takes you further. Choose from in-demand specialisms like ‘Data Analytics’ and ‘Cooperative Strategy’, and build the strategic, cross-cultural, and data-driven skills needed to analyse global markets, lead diverse teams, navigate geopolitical complexity, and master digital transformation – so that you can make an impact from day one.
I currently work as a Strategy Buyer responsible for Jaguar Land Rover’s long term strategy in the Raw Materials team. My role entails identifying and mitigating potential risks, conducting data analysis, implementing future strategies, and evaluating suppliers.
Bridge theory and practice with a 180-credit curriculum designed for real-world impact. Engage with key topics from international strategy, operations, and governance while building confidence to make informed decisions in complex international environments.
UK university targeted by leading graduate employers
'The Graduate Market in 2026' High Fliers report
QS World University Rankings 2027
QS Top Universities
THE World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Business and Economics
Times Higher Education
A fully immersive online learning experience. Study online with the University of Birmingham through a flexible, interactive experience powered by Canvas. Learn from the same expert faculty as on campus and engage in discussions, group activities, and direct collaboration with peers and lecturers. As one of the UK’s largest and most established online providers, we support you to build career-ready skills from anywhere.
The course comprises of 180 credits, taught through a series of 20 credit modules and a 40 credit Final Project. Students will study six core modules and choose one optional module.
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.
You will complete the following core modules:
You will then choose one of the following optional modules:
|
Module title |
Credits |
|---|---|
| Cooperative Strategy in International Business | 20 |
| International Business Data Analytics | 20 |
You will then choose one of the following optional modules:
|
Module title |
Credits |
|---|---|
| Dissertation | 40 |
| Company Research Project | 40 |
| Business Simulation | 40 |
Associate Professor in Strategy and International Business
Neil is a specialist in strategic foresight, scenario analysis and international business.
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.
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.
This programme offers a flexible approach to entry, recognising both academic achievement and professional experience. Typically, applicants hold an upper second-class degree or postgraduate diploma from a UK university (or equivalent), though alternative qualifications may be considered.
If English is not your first language, you’ll usually need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no less than 6.0 in each band), or equivalent. In some cases, this may be waived based on prior study, supporting access for a global cohort.
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 or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Total cost
Per module
The programme fee includes any online resources, including full access to the online learning platform, course materials and required digital reading materials. The fee does not include any personal expenses for new technical equipment or office supplies.
Online postgraduate study is a significant financial commitment, and we want you to be completely aware of the associated costs – and all the support available – before becoming a student with us. There are a number of funding options available to help you, including loans, scholarships and employer reimbursement.
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 have 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.
To apply for an online postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
If you have a question about your application or the application process, including whether your current degree qualifies you for the programme, contact us using the details below, and we will be happy to help. We’re ready to answer any questions and are available to provide guidance, advice and honest feedback.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
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.
Our graduates secure diverse roles including international marketing directors, management consultants, business development managers, and financial controllers with leading multinational companies.
Whether you're drawn to strategic consulting, international banking, or executive leadership, you'll find opportunities in major business hubs worldwide - from Birmingham and Dubai to Singapore and beyond.
Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.
Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:
We are one of the most consistently targeted UK universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2026). Read more about the achievements of our alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
As one of the largest providers of distance learning in the UK, we offer you a prestigious online education that matches the on-campus experience, taught by our same expert professors and lecturers. You have the flexibility to study from wherever you are in the world, control your daily schedule, and still benefit from the academic, wellbeing, and career support as part of our global postgraduate community.
From the moment you enrol to the time you graduate, we will give you all the support you need to succeed. Whether you have questions about your application, assignment deadlines, technical issues or careers opportunities, we’re here to help.
Find new perspectives. Hear first-hand about life at Birmingham from our students, past and present.
