MSc International Management

16 Months On Campus Masters Program

Bournemouth University

Program Overview

The MSc International Management at Bournemouth University is perfect if you’re aiming to build a career in global business or want to take on leadership roles in international organisations. It equips you with the skills to think strategically, lead diverse teams, and navigate complex global markets with confidence.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 (Taught components)
You’ll start by building a strong foundation in key areas of business and management. Modules like Global Strategic Management, Marketing & Strategy, and Leadership Essentials help you understand how organisations operate on a global scale and how effective leadership drives success. Through Global Innovation Management, Supply Chains, Networks & Markets, and Managing People, you’ll also learn how businesses innovate, manage international networks, and lead teams across cultures.

Final Component (Dissertation + optional Placement)
In the final stage, you’ll complete a Dissertation, allowing you to research a business topic that truly interests you. You also have the option of a 30-week paid placement, giving you practical experience and helping you step confidently into your future career.

Focus areas:
Global strategy, international innovation, cross-cultural leadership, marketing strategy, supply-chain management, organisational behaviour

Learning outcomes:
You’ll gain the ability to analyse global business challenges, make strategic decisions, lead diverse teams, manage international operations, and carry out independent research on complex business issues.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is delivered by Bournemouth University Business School, which is AACSB-accredited — an internationally recognized mark of excellence in business education.

Reputation (employability & rankings):
With its industry-focused curriculum and optional placement, this programme helps you prepare for roles such as Project Manager, Operations Manager, Marketing Manager, Business Development Manager, and Communications Manager, giving you a real edge in the global job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Bournemouth University, the MSc International Management isn’t just about sitting in lectures — it’s designed to give you hands-on experience so you can step confidently into the global business world. You’ll get to apply what you learn in real business scenarios, use modern facilities, and even gain work experience through an optional paid placement. The programme blends classroom learning with practical opportunities, giving you both the knowledge and the skills employers really value.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:

Optional 30‑week paid work placement: After completing the taught units, you can take a full-time placement in a real business environment, helping you build professional experience and connections before graduation.
Placement support: You’ll have guidance from a Placement Development Adviser and academic support from the university, ensuring your placement is meaningful and linked to your studies.
Access to campus facilities & libraries: Study in BU’s modern libraries, including the Weston Library at Lansdowne Campus, with access to research materials, quiet study spaces, and digital resources.
Modern campus environment: The Lansdowne and Talbot campuses provide everything from collaborative learning spaces to student support services, creating a vibrant environment to grow academically and socially.
Global business focus: Through modules in strategy, innovation, cross-cultural leadership, and international management, plus the optional placement, you’ll develop skills directly relevant to working in international organisations.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc International Management programme go on to exciting roles in international business, operations, marketing, and general management — think Business Development Manager, Operations Manager, Marketing Manager, or Project Manager. The combination of strong academic teaching and the option to gain hands-on placement experience means you’ll be ready to step straight into the professional world with confidence.

Here’s how Bournemouth University helps you get there:

CareersBU support: You’ll have access to one-on-one career guidance, CV workshops, networking events, and an online portal called MyCareerHub to help you explore job opportunities and connect with employers.
Optional 30-week paid placement: This gives you real-world work experience and a chance to build professional networks before you graduate.
Industry connections: BU collaborates with local, national, and international companies across a variety of sectors, giving you exposure to potential employers and opportunities in different industries.
Internationally recognized accreditation: The programme is delivered by BU’s AACSB-accredited Business School, which adds real value to your degree in the eyes of employers worldwide.
Graduate outcomes: Many students secure rewarding roles or continue further studies soon after completing their MSc.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, you could take your MSc further with a PhD in International Business or Management, or pursue a specialized master’s in areas like global strategy, international marketing, or business analytics. This can open doors to senior-level roles, academic careers, or specialist positions in international organisations.