.

MSc Strategy and International Business

Key information

Duration of programme: Full-time - 12 months

Start date: September

Fees:
UK/EU:          £10,500 (2013 fee)
International:  £16,000 (2013 fee) 

Scholarships:
If you are among ‘the brightest and the best’, we have a range of generous scholarships for International Business students which can open the way for you to study with us. Find out  more >>

Apply now:

Apply for this course online

Contact details: 
Ms Kirsty Howard
Aston Business School Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0) 121 204 4227
Email: k.v.howard@aston.ac.uk

Programme outline and modules

With the increasing globalisation of business and the revolution in information and communications technologies, no company can afford to ignore the international dimension of strategy. 

Most, if not all, companies require internationalisation strategies, be they simple export or franchising arrangements, or complex and risky international joint ventures and/or foreign direct investment. 

These activities require a totally different perspective on company strategy and demand the knowledge and skills necessary for understanding the international business environment.
The MSc in Strategy and International Business provides a rigorous and comprehensive coverage of strategy and international business issues in both developed and developing countries and in private and public sectors.

The strategy component of the degree aims to give students the knowledge and skills required to analyse companies’ strategic situations and to solve complex strategic problems.  The international business component of the degree aims to develop the knowledge and skills required for assessing and developing internationalisation strategies and operations as well as skills entailed in international and cross-cultural management.

International exchange opportunties

In addition to your Aston degree, you will have the opportunity to participate in our international study exchange programme. Studying with one of our partner institutions, the programme will further enhance your international experience and communciation skills, preparing you for a career in the interntional business environment.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

Research Methods Module (Choose one)




Elective Modules (Choose two elective modules from the list that follows, subject to pre-requisites:*)
**Business Finance must be followed by International Finance in the following term.
***Marketing Management must be followed by International Marketing Management in the following term
****Management Consultancy as Practice is compulsory for students undertaking client/consultancy based dissertations

Jump to:

Entry requirements

One of the following:

  • A good UK honours degree (minimum lower second class)

  • Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University.

As well as:

  • Two professional references – at least one must be from an academic referee

  • An official academic transcript of your university grades to date

  • A completed application form.

For International Students:

  • An official academic transcript, with an official English translation, of your university grades to date

  • Students whose native language is not English will also need to satisfy our English language requirements Pre-sessional English language programmes are available for good applicants whose English qualification falls just short of these requirements.

Learning, teaching & assessment

The 10 taught modules are assessed through a mixture of examinations and coursework.  The taught element of the programme is complemented by a substantial piece of research leading to the completion of a dissertation.

Career opportunities

The unique combination of strategy and international business in this programme provides a solid foundation for a career in international management, or as a consultant in either the private or public sector. 

It would also provide an excellent foundation for a doctoral degree in either strategy or international business.

Students are expected to gain employment in the following areas:

  • Management positions in the private and public sector, UK and internationally
  • Consulting companies, UK and internationally
  • Government bodies, as part of the Government Economic Services (e.g. Treasury, Department of Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, Regulatory bodies, etc.)
  • Pursue a PhD degree in Strategy or International Business.

Personal development

Students will acquire skills in the following areas: giving presentations; team working; report writing; negotiation and IT skills.

Facilities & equipment

Aston Business School's outstanding student facilities include:

  • A purpose-built suite which is accessible exclusively to Masters students 

  • 24 hours access

  • Free Wi-Fi connection

  • Modern lecture/tutorial rooms

  • Computer labs

  • Lounge area

  • IT equipment and packages and use of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Course director

Dr Efstathios Tapinos
PhD
Dr E. Tapinos is a Lecturer in Strategic Management, teaching Strategy related modules at the UG and PG programme.  His research focuses on the Strategy Development Process and the use of Strategy Tools.  He specialises in Performance Measurement/Management (-Balanced Scorecard) and Strategic Foresight (-Scenario Planning).

Teaching staff