MSc International Business and Strategic Management

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of York

Program Overview

The MSc International Business and Strategic Management at the University of York is designed to give you a real edge in the global business world. You’ll learn how to make smart strategic decisions in international organisations, blending theory with practical insights — perfect if you want to lead, consult, or make an impact in multinational companies.

Curriculum Structure

This one-year program takes you through a mix of core modules, optional specializations, and a dissertation project. You’ll start with core modules like Strategy and Strategic Management, International Business in the Global Context, and Managing People in the Global Context, giving you a strong foundation in global strategy and leadership.

Next, you choose optional modules that suit your career goals, such as Sustainable Operations & Supply Chain Management, Management, Society and Artificial Intelligence, or International Business Management in Emerging Markets. These let you tailor your studies and develop expertise in areas that excite you.

Finally, you’ll complete a dissertation — either an applied 8,000-word project or a 10,000-word academic thesis — under the guidance of an experienced faculty member, giving you hands-on experience in tackling real-world business problems.

Focus Areas

Global strategy, cross-cultural management, sustainability, innovation, and international business analysis.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll learn to design strategic solutions for international business challenges, critically assess decision-making in diverse organisations, communicate complex ideas effectively, and conduct independent research that makes an impact.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Delivered by York’s respected School of Business and Society, this program equips you with skills highly valued by employers worldwide.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

York is known for strong employability, and graduates often move into roles like management consultant, analyst, project manager, marketing consultant, finance manager, or even director-level positions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At York, this MSc isn’t just about lectures — it’s about getting your hands dirty in real business challenges. You’ll learn by doing, whether that’s working in teams to solve complex strategic problems, analysing real company data, or designing your own research project. The School for Business and Society provides modern, collaborative spaces and expert guidance to make sure you can put theory into practice effectively.

Some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience include:

Business simulation games where you make strategic decisions in teams, mirroring real multinational business scenarios.
Dissertation project (8,000‑word applied or 10,000‑word academic thesis) with close supervision, letting you tackle a real-world problem or conduct original research.
Church Lane Building facilities offering purpose-built classrooms, breakout areas, and collaborative spaces for group work and discussion.
DACS (Departmental Academic & Communication Skills) team support, including one-on-one mentoring, workshops, and guidance tailored to postgraduate students.
Academic Skills Community resources covering workshops, coaching, and online tools to help with data analysis, presentations, and professional communication.
Campus study rooms you can book for private or group study, strategy planning, and project work.

These experiences ensure that by the time you graduate, you won’t just understand international business strategy — you’ll have practical skills and confidence to apply it in the real world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing this MSc opens doors to exciting strategic and leadership roles in global organisations. Graduates often step into positions like management consultant, project manager, analyst, or finance/marketing manager, equipped with the skills and confidence to make an impact from day one. York ensures you’re supported every step of the way:

Here’s how the University helps you turn your degree into a successful career:

Expert Careers Support: York’s dedicated careers advisors work closely with postgraduate students, offering one-on-one guidance, workshops, and tailored advice to help you navigate your career path.
Strong Employment Outcomes: Over 92% of York graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, giving you confidence in your future prospects.
Employer Connections: The University partners with thousands of employers each year, from innovative start-ups to multinational corporations, giving you access to a wide range of opportunities.
Long-Term Value: While this MSc is not tied to a specific accreditation, it is delivered by York’s highly regarded School for Business and Society, ensuring your degree is respected by employers worldwide.
Career Paths: Graduates move into roles like finance manager, management consultant, analyst, project manager, marketing consultant, or even director-level positions.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to keep learning, York also offers opportunities for doctoral research, such as a PhD within the School for Business and Society, allowing you to deepen your expertise in international business and strategic management.