Choose three modules from the following list, subject to pre-requisites and restrictions on some modules and combinations
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 enhance your international experience and communication skills, preparing you for a career in the international business environment.
One of the following:
As well as:
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Two professional references – at least one must be from an academic referee
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An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
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A completed application form.
For International Students:
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An official academic transcript, with an official English translation, of your university grades to date
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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.
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.
- Interpreting financial statements covering income, balances and cash flow
- Budgetary control and analysing business costs using Cost Volume Profit and contribution analysis
- Econometric modelling of stochastic trends and performance forecasting
- International HRM including: cross-cultural communication; diversity management; and HR issues in expatriation/repatriation, acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures
- Developing marketing and pricing strategies, plans and marketing mix policies; international promotion strategies and distribution channels
- Internationalisation of production and trade, including: the international product life cycle; forms of international business activity; national competitive strategies; and economic integration
- International sectors, emerging and transition economies, cultural differences, international business strategies and strategic alliances
- Operational planning and management including: product, service and process design; choice of layout and technology; statistical stock control and MRPI
- Strategy processes and techniques including: value chain analysis, ‘make or buy’ decisions; implementing and managing strategic change in an international environment
- Innovation processes, innovation-based strategies and creating competitive advantage through innovation
- Multi-cultural teamwork and presentation skills developed through group-work
- Analytical skills developed through research dissertation.
The wide range of elective modules available on this programme enables students to develop skills across a range of business functions including: marketing; HR; finance, investment and business law; operations; and international markets and investments.
Aston Business School's outstanding student facilities include:
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A purpose-built suite which is accessible exclusively to Masters students
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24 hours access
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Free Wi-Fi connection
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Modern lecture/tutorial rooms
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Computer labs
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Lounge area
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IT equipment and packages and use of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Mr Kirit Vaidya
B.Soc.Sc. (Economics, Politics, Sociology), FRSA
Senior Lecturer in Business Economics, MSc in International Business Course Director and member of the Economics and Strategy Group. Chair of the Aston Business School Technology Strategy Group (TSG).
Research interests in technology transfer and industrial development business strategies in emerging economies with special reference to China and rural infrastructure planning in developing countries.
His recent projects and publications include “Capability development of Chinese manufacturing enterprises”, “Shifting comparative advantage of Chinese manufacturing sectors” and "Employment generation through public works in South Africa, Nepal and Cambodia".
Dr Stephanie Decker
MA, PhD, PGCert
Stephanie is a Lecturer in International Business and member of the Economics and Strategy Group. Prior to joining Aston she held appointments at Harvard Business School, University of Liverpool, London School of Economics, and Humboldt University, Berlin. Recent publications have been in the area of international negotiations between international investors and host governments, as well as the causes of corruption in less developed countries.