MSc International Business

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc International Business at Exeter gives you the skills and confidence to tackle global business challenges and think strategically across borders. It’s perfect for motivated graduates who want to build a career in international trade, global management, or consultancy while gaining practical experience in solving real-world business problems.

Curriculum Structure

This one-year programme is split across three terms, with the first two focused on taught modules and the final term dedicated to creating your own International Business Plan — a real-world project that lets you put theory into practice.

Term 1:
You’ll start with core modules like Principles of International Business and Current Issues in International Business, which introduce you to global trade, business strategy, and how companies operate across cultures. Alongside this, Foundations to Business Communication will help you communicate effectively in an international context, preparing you for presentations, reports, and professional discussions.
Term 2:
In the second term, you’ll build on that foundation with modules like Strategic Innovation Management, Accounting for International Managers, and People Management. You’ll also have the option to choose electives such as International Human Resource Management, Digital Transformation, or Leadership and Global Challenges, allowing you to tailor your learning to your career interests.
Term 3 / Summer:
The final term is all about applying what you’ve learned to a practical challenge through your International Business Plan. You’ll develop and present a business strategy for a real or simulated company, giving you hands-on experience and a showcase piece for your CV.

Focus Areas

Global strategy, cross-cultural management, innovation, sustainability, leadership, and international trade.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to design strategic solutions for complex international business challenges, understand how different business functions work together in a global context, and confidently create a business plan that demonstrates your skills and knowledge.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme is offered by a triple-accredited business school (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), meaning your degree is recognized worldwide for its quality and relevance.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

Exeter Business School is in the top 1% of business schools worldwide for its triple accreditation.
Ranked 20th globally for international trade in the QS Rankings 2026.
Highlighted by the Hinrich Foundation as a leading Master’s programme in International Business and Trade.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, the MSc International Business isn’t just about lectures — it’s about doing real-world business. You get to put theory into practice by creating your very own International Business Plan, guided by expert faculty, giving you hands-on experience that’s directly relevant to your future career. The programme also offers interactive workshops, access to cutting-edge research centres, and support from the university’s career services, so you’re always applying what you learn in practical, meaningful ways.

Here’s how you’ll gain these practical skills:

Develop a real or simulated International Business Plan (BEMM384) in Term 3, applying your learning to a tangible project.
Participate in specialist workshops on globalisation, cross-cultural management, sustainability, and strategic business planning.
Benefit from career support and internships through Exeter’s Career Zone, including employer events, professional pathways, and paid 35-hour internships.
Learn in state-of-the-art facilities, including modern lecture theatres, syndicate rooms, and the Finance & Economics Experimental Laboratory (FEELE) for data-driven and simulation work.
Access research centres like the Centre for Simulation, Analytics & Modelling (CSAM) and the Exeter Centre for Leadership to collaborate on projects or gather insights for your business plan.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc International Business at Exeter leave ready to make an impact in the global business world. Whether you see yourself as a Global Strategy Analyst, International Business Consultant, Trade Manager, or Business Development Director, this programme equips you with the skills and confidence to thrive.

Here’s how Exeter helps you turn your degree into a career:

Careers and Employability Support: The Business School’s Careers team guides you through CVs, interviews, networking, and connects you to thousands of UK and international employers via Handshake.
Graduate Business Partnerships (GBP): This scheme helps graduates secure paid, real-world roles with partner employers, giving you hands-on experience right after graduation.
Industrial Placements: Gain valuable experience through structured placements where you work on high-responsibility projects in real companies.
Strong Employer Network: Exeter has links with major global firms and over 9,000 UK and international employers, opening doors to exciting opportunities.
Accreditation Advantage: The Business School is triple-accredited (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), adding weight to your degree and helping you stand out to employers.
Graduate Outcomes & Reputation: Highly ranked in QS International Trade rankings, the programme demonstrates strong graduate success and industry engagement.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, you could continue with a PhD if you’re aiming for research or academic careers, or explore specialised master’s and postgraduate diplomas in areas like International Trade Law, Global Finance, or Sustainable Business, building on your strong international business foundation.