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The online learning platform at Exeter is great. The platform lays out all the information simply and I find it useful that each week structures the learning into bitesize chunks.
At the end of each week, there is also a learning summary section. I have found that beneficial to look back to and see what key points were covered that I can use for my assignment
Michelle
MSc International Business Online student
Course content
This course offers a blend of practical skills and cross-disciplinary insights to set you apart in the competitive world of global business. It is designed for ambitious graduates looking to accelerate their career progression. As part of this programme, you will:
- Draw on core modules in finance, accounting, marketing and international business which are the essential business skillsets for higher management.
- Gain an understanding of cross-cultural issues that are the foundation of effective business communication.
- Hone your strategic thinking abilities and apply these skills across diverse business contexts, preparing you to tackle the challenges of today's dynamic global landscape.
- Create your own business plan with guidance from the Programme Director. This will foster practical and applied business skills that solve real-world issues and will equip you for success in today’s global marketplace.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
180 credits of compulsory modules. The modules are offered on a carousel model where you may join the programme at one of three points each year.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Accounting for Managerial Decision Making | 30 | |
| Sustainable Finance | 30 | |
| International Business and Globalisation | 30 | |
| Cross-Cultural Management | 30 | |
| International Business Project - Planning in Practice | 30 | |
| Responsible Leadership | 30 | |
BEAM081Z: Accounting for Managerial Decision Making
A career in international business and finance requires not only technical literacy in accounting but also the ability to critically interpret, question, and apply accounting information in an increasingly complex, digital, and data‑driven environment. This module is designed to provide you with a rigorous postgraduate‑level understanding of financial accounting theory, practice, and professional judgement, with particular attention to the challenges and opportunities arising from digitalisation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) in accounting.
The module introduces the conceptual foundations underpinning the preparation and use of financial statements, while emphasising the interpretation and critical evaluation of accounting information for business decision‑making. You will develop familiarity with key accounting standards, reporting mechanisms, and analytical tools, alongside an appreciation of the limitations of financial statements in reflecting economic reality. In line with contemporary practice, the module also considers how emerging technologies—such as AI‑enabled data processing and automation—are reshaping financial reporting, audit processes, and the role of professional scepticism.
BEAM082Z: Sustainable Finance
This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of sustainable finance. Finance is a key element of international business as financial decisions help to drive business strategy and growth. Confronted with the worldwide challenges and opportunities in business operations, global communities have raised concerns about the role of sustainable finance in areas such as climate change, biodiversity, human rights and carbon emissions. This module is dedicated to addressing these concerns with new ways of thinking about finance and its role in business and society. ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) issues have become a major risk factor for investments. ESG data now forms an integral part of decision-making by companies and investors alike. This module will introduce you to key aspects of ESG, focusing on how to apply it in business and investment practice. You will develop an understanding of how ESG considerations form the base for sustainable and responsible decision-making in finance.
BEMM490Z: International Business and Globalisation
This module provides the theoretical foundations of international business and its practical applications in explaining the dynamics and constraints of firms’ international strategies. It analyses changes in the international economic environment as a result of globalisation as well as the increased interdependence between countries and firms in terms of flows of goods, services, finances and people. It also considers political, economic and institutional differences and the strategies companies adopt when conducting business across national boundaries. While many practical examples are provided, focus is given to developing an analytical approach to addressing these questions, drawing on several theoretical perspectives.
The module aims to give you a working knowledge of the underpinning principles of international business, and the capacity to critically analyse existing theories and concepts to formulate your own suitable strategic approaches. As international business draws upon several disciplines, it will also instil a holistic understanding of the subject which incorporates related aspects of marketing, economics, sociology, human resource management, and logistics and supply chain management.
The overarching module aims are to enable you to understand:
Why and how businesses trade and invest internationally;
Which factors impact upon international business;
Role of international business in society.
BEMM491Z: Cross-Cultural Management
You will cover concepts, theories and practices pertaining to management of businesses in an international environment. International Businesses or multinational enterprises operate in a complex environment which cuts across different country contexts with diverse cultures, institutions, or social, political, and economic environments. You will be introduced you to the various risks and challenges associated with operating and managing businesses internationally, assessment of similarities and differences in cultures across countries, and how culture impacts the design, application and adaptation of various management practices in the organisation — from macro-organisational level strategies to practices impacting micro individual level behaviour.
BEMM492Z: International Business Project - Planning in Practice
In this module, you will learn how to research and develop an international business plan for your own venture or organisation of your choice. You will identify and analyse an international opportunity and create a strategy to pursue it. You will then write an individual business plan based on your research and analysis. This module will provide you with knowledge and skills for international business planning and strategy development.
The module aims to provide you with the capability to research and develop an international business plan based on an opportunity you hope to pursue internationally. The module will cover the key aspects of international business planning, where you will learn to apply relevant theories/frameworks to your own international business idea.
You will then be challenged with researching and writing an individual international business plan. You will do this from the point of view of your own current venture, the organisation you work for, an organisation of your choosing, or one you intend to start. You will be required to collect and analyse relevant data for this venture and the international opportunity you hope to pursue. This will help you to create a firm-specific international business plan while developing an international business strategy. This will result in you producing a 6000-word report outlining your international business plan.
BEMM495Z: Responsible Leadership
Responsible leadership is a human imperative. Anyone who currently leads or manages organisations, people or movements knows that there are many complex, interconnected challenges that demand investment, collaboration, action and change on a global scale. These challenges affect the survival of organisations, the wellbeing of their workforces, wider society and the natural world. We need a model of leadership that embraces the interrelated nature of these challenges, envisions systemic solutions and puts these into action. You will examine the changing mission and purpose of organisations, and explore how we, as leaders, can unlock sustainable and responsible progress. Together you will critically analyse the nature of contemporary leadership, allowing you to build a personal approach to leadership that can help you shape a more sustainable and equitable future.
In crafting the MSc International Business Online programme, we've thoughtfully considered the dynamic lives of professionals like you, ensuring that advancing your career while managing family commitments is not only possible but also fulfilling.
This programme stands as a beacon of opportunity, designed to deepen your business acumen and enhance your global competencies. It offers more than an educational experience; it's a pathway to achieving new heights in your career, equipped with the skills and knowledge that employers around the world are actively seeking.
As you contemplate this exciting step forward, rest assured that our dedicated faculty and staff are here to support you every step of the way.
Read more from Dr Narmin Nahidi
Dr Narmin Nahidi
Programme Director
Entry requirements
A 2:2 with honours in any discipline from a recognised university, or relevant professional qualifications, or significant work experience.
We do consider all applications where there is evidence of exceptional performance in modules relevant to the programme of study, significant relevant work experience or professional qualifications.
English language requirements
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course.
The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2.
Pay as you study
Total fees for this programme is £10,000.
To make it easier to budget, you don’t need to pay the total fee upfront. Instead, you can pay for each module as you are about to start studying it. You can pay for the whole year if you prefer, but the minimum payment is at least the cost of the module you are taking that term.
What opportunities does an online Masters in Business lead to?
Our online MSc International Business programme has been designed for ambitious students who want to launch an international career, wherever in the world you choose to work. Graduates can look to work in a diverse range of roles, including:
- International Business Director
- Marketing and Strategy Consultant
- Procurement and Purchasing Manager
- Business and Commercial Analyst
- Brand Manager
- Human Resource Manager
As part of this programme, you will have full access to the Careers and Employability team who can offer support in terms of skills training, internship opportunities, job vacancies, employment fairs and other events.
Study a 100% online Masters degree in International Business at a Top 15 University*
Apply now for September 2026 entry »
Apply now for January 2027 entry »
* 14th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
