| Module | Credits | Compulsory/optional |
|---|
| The Global Economy | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| The Global Economy introduces the complex patterns, processes and institutional context in which international businesses operate. It emphasises the importance of measurement and considers the concepts, theories and narratives used to explain the global economy, emphasising its dynamic nature, vulnerability to shocks and how businesses can gain from greater understanding to gain competitive advantage. The module is divided into four units: i) the nature of economies and the changing balance of economic and political power; ii) interaction through trade, financial flows, labour and information; iii) the role of businesses in orchestrating the economy, in allocating resources and shaping patterns of development; and iv) the political and regulatory framework within which businesses operate. The latter illustrates the challenges of working across a mosaic of cultures and regulatory regimes. There is also a critical assessment of the role of the state, of supra-national institutions such as the IMF, the World Bank, the World Trade Organisation, intergovernmental groupings, and of sub-national institutions such as regional and local political bodies. |
| International Business Strategy | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module explores the challenges faced by international firms in building and sustaining competitive advantage within a complex, uncertain and rapidly changing global business environment. It will use a range of theoretical tools and concepts to explore the meaning of both quantitative and qualitative case study evidence. Students will examine how and why firms develop a range of strategic approaches to international business challenges, balancing a consideration of internal organisational influences and stakeholder pressures against an evaluation of the impact of competitive rivalry and broader environmental forces. A range of theoretical perspectives and debates will highlight the conflicting tensions felt by managers engaged in the international
business strategy process, particularly the tension between demands to be responsive to national differences and economic pressures while also becoming more efficient and globally integrated. Students will generate and
critically assess a range of strategic options available to managers in specific case situations. |
| International Supply Chain Management | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| The focus of this module is on the theory and practice of international supply chain management in the context of organisations. Topics to be covered include: supply chain strategy, performance and structure of supply chains; supplier relationships; managing quality; matching supply and demand; inventory control, sourcing and managing suppliers; risk management, sustainability; corporate social responsibility; humanitarian supply chain integration and future contemporary challenges of supply chain management. The module will introduce the students to the main methods and techniques commonly used in the management of international supply chains; these include techniques such as simulation, forecasting, optimisation, distribution, network analysis, and so on. |
| Global e-Business | 15 Credits | Optional |
| This module is primarily focused on areas such as the development of e-commerce components, E-commerce as part of the total company profile, E-commerce marketing, Internal and external effects of e-commerce, International methods of e-commerce, strategic advantage through e-commerce, payment Systems, privacy and security. |
| Marketing Across Cultures | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| Students will investigate how marketing practice needs to adapt to take account of different international macro and micro environments and in particular cross cultural issues.
The marketing function and activities will be addressed to investigate how these may need adaptation to best suit their different trading environments.
Not only will the marketing function be addressed but also the management and control across different cultures.
The learning outcomes will be achieved through student investigation, research and case study analysis. |
| International and Comparative HRM | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module is designed to provide an in-depth and theoretically informed exposition of the human resource complexities in managing across borders as a primary strategic concern of multinational corporations (MNCs). It is organised around international and comparative themes on an integrated basis. In exploring international HRM themes, students examine the challenges of managing staff in home and host localities, including the selection, training and rewarding of expatriates. Cultural awareness will be explored through the examination of diverse institutional and cultural environments in host destinations for MNCs. These include North America, 'Western' and 'Eastern' Europe, Japan, China and a selection of emerging/developing countries. |
| Preparation for the Workplace | 0 Credits | Compulsory |
| The module is designed to support postgraduate students in their search for work placements and their applications. Students are given an overview of the employment market, and information on what employers will be looking for when selecting. During their study, students will analyse current recruitment and selection methods used, and the module provides students with support to prepare for these. |
| Work Placement Portfolio | 0 Credits | Compulsory |
| Undertaking a sandwich placement provides students with the opportunity to set their academic studies in a broader context. It also provides an opportunity to gain practical experience of the professional workplace, and to strengthen key employability skills. The Work Placement Portfolio module requires students to reflect on the learning gained throughout their placement, both in relation to their personal development, and their learning from their programme of study. |
| Leadership and Management in International Business | 15 Credits | Optional |
| The module explores a range of leadership and management attributes and skills in their application to people in a multicultural and international business context. Leadership and Management theory, models and styles are analysed, including their impact on individual and team performance. Key concepts of leadership, management, motivation, team building, group behaviour, communication, feedback, power and conflict are explored and presentation, communication, critical thinking and self-assessment skills are developed. |
| Advanced Business Research | 30 Credits | Compulsory |
| In this module, students develop advanced postgraduate level skills of independent research, analysis, evaluation, writing and presentation, all within a business research context. This advances postgraduate students' knowledge and skill set, to enable them to become professional business researchers. Students will be able to robustly design and implement research according to their own or an employer's business objectives; to locate relevant, current, reliable business information; to synergise findings, analyse and present quantitative data, draw insightful conclusions and make innovative, evidence-based recommendations. Students acquire skills that will take them beyond the university environment and the 'masters student' timescale, into 'real world' researching as a competitive, advanced skill, integral to achieving business success and realising their career ambitions. |
| Professional and Consultancy Skills | 30 Credits | Compulsory |
| The module is designed to develop professional and consultancy skills. The curriculum was prepared in consultation with employers, to reflect what they seek from today's professional entry-level graduate. It includes a critical examination of leadership styles and management techniques, negotiation and change management skills, the ability to design projects from inception to completion, and liaising with internal and external clients to identify requirements, and achieve outputs within the optimum timescale. The commitment to reflexive practice encourages students to reflect on their knowledge and experience as they look at different aspects of professional performance, and to identify areas for change and enhancement to achieve career goals. |
| Business Research Methods | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| The module covers a range of research related skills in the business context. Areas covered normally include:
understanding contemporary business issues; formulating research aim and objectives, identifying relevant literature; examining different approaches to data collection and data analysis; considering ethical guidelines for reliable and credible research. On completion of the module, students will have the ability to execute the next stage of their research. |
| Accounting and Finance for International Business | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module is designed to enable you to become more confident in the use and limitations of financial
information and, thus, interact more effectively with both financial and non-financial management. You will learn how to assess and use financial information, both that provided to external stakeholders (financial statements) and internal management reports essential tools to assist with management decision making across the organisation.
In addition, you will analyse financial information which you will develop to help solve business problems,
including alternative techniques for evaluating major investment projects and explore ways in which they may be financed.
The module also explores how financial management and business performance is monitored and managed.
A practical approach will be used. The use of scenario exercises and case studies will enable you to acquire and develop new financial skills and understand how to use them in a practical context. |
| Professional Work Placement | 60 Credits | Compulsory |
| Undertaking a placement year provides students with the opportunity to set their academic studies in a broader context, to gain practical experience of the workplace, and to strengthen key employability skills. The Professional Work Placement module provides opportunities for students to reflect on the learning gained throughout their placement, and to prepare themselves for articulating their experiences and enhanced skills when applying for future employment. |
| MSc IB Advanced Research Project | 60 Credits | Compulsory |
| The Advanced Research Project is an original piece of work incorporating research and evaluation. It is the culmination of a successful Masters programme demonstrating the student's ability to work independently. It is underpinned by a formal teaching module in Business Research Methods.
The project may focus on any aspect of the MSc International Business programme. Each student will be supported by a research tutor who will approve the final selection of the topic and offer guidance and support during the research and assessment process, at different stages to ensure the learning outcomes are met. |
| Principles of International Business | 30 Credits | Compulsory |
| The Principles of International Business introduces the complex processes, patterns, and institutional context in which international businesses operate. The module content focuses on the nature of economies and the changing balance of economic and political power; interaction through trade, financial flows, labour and information; the role of states and businesses in orchestrating the economy, in allocating resources and shaping patterns of development; the strategic aims of business organisations and the sustainability of the modern economy in the face of climate change. |
| Financial Management for International Business | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module is designed to introduce students from all backgrounds to the fundamental concepts of financial and management accounting within an international context. It provides a solid understanding of key concepts such as financial statements, investment appraisal, budgets and budgetary control, sustainability, and the risks associated with international business, including exchange rate transactions and translations. Additionally, students will develop the skills necessary to analyse, evaluate, and effectively communicate business performance to relevant stakeholders using appropriate financial information. |
| Digital Marketing and Consumer Insights | 15 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module covers the role of digital marketing in a global business context. Key topics include digital marketing strategy development (SEO, SEM, social media, content marketing), consumer insights and data analytics, e-commerce, and digital branding.
Students will explore tools for understanding consumer behaviour, campaign planning, and measuring ROI. Practical applications include group projects, presentations, and the ethical and legal aspects of digital marketing, with a focus on data privacy and cultural sensitivity in global markets. |
| International Enterprises and Human Resource Management | 30 Credits | Compulsory |
| Through studying this module, you will gain an understanding of the international business and cultural factors that influence the strategic development of International Human Resource Management. You will examine both the significance of strategic macro frameworks and explore the complexities and challenges associated with HRM in international enterprises.
Through the understanding of the different cultural, economic, legal and ethical challenges you will develop the ability to identify and design people management solutions to meet the business need and enhance organisational effectiveness. |
| Leading Innovation and Change | 15 Credits | Optional |
| Today, as never before, the world is experiencing a dynamic change in technology, economics and societies. Business leaders must both understand and have the capacity to engage with all kinds of change and innovation. The module will explore the complex nature of innovation and change in social, organisational and societal contexts, by considering the role of leaders and managers in these processes. Students will critically engage with different theoretical approaches that can inform perspectives on, and approaches to, change and innovation. Areas covered will normally include understanding New Realities Force for Change and contemporary business issues; examining different approaches for change management; Considering an appropriate leadership stye for continuous innovation. |
| Supply Chain and Negotiation Analysis | 15 Credits | Optional |
| You will learn about the theory and practice of international supply chain management in the context of organisations. The topics covered include supply chain strategy and agility, performance and structure of supply chains, supplier relationships, negotiations, sustainability in supply chain, technological trends, corporate social responsibility, humanitarian supply chain integration and future contemporary challenges of supply chain management. You will be introduced to the complexity in supply chain negotiations and cross-cultural negotiations. Moreover, different tactics/strategies to tackle supply chain negotiations are covered, thus increasing your negotiation skills. |
| Artificial Intelligence in International Business | 15 Credits | Optional |
| This module develops students' understanding of AI in international business, covering foundational topics such as machine learning, natural language processing, and ethical considerations. Students will explore real-world applications across global industries and gain strategic insights for integrating AI into international business operations.
Note: Topics will evolve in response to the rapid advancements in AI. |
| Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation | 15 Credits | Optional |
| This module covers the entrepreneurial process, beginning with the identification of business opportunities and extending to the development, launch, and growth of new ventures. Key topics include entrepreneurial theories, opportunity recognition, market research, business model development, financing strategies, risk management, legal aspects of new ventures and explore exit processes. Additionally, students will explore team building, leadership, and the creation of a comprehensive business plan. |
| Industry Research Project | 60 Credits | Compulsory |
| This module allows students to understand and carry out a research process as appropriate for a master's degree. It will allow them to work independently while being supported on their research journey by a dedicated supervisor. The research skills developed will help them make effective critically evaluated decisions. They would also develop their discussion and presentation skills within a group of their peers preparing them for future success in research or a workplace environment. |
