International Business MSc Online
Go further, faster with a 100% online business master’s that’s built for global leaders.
Start Dates: January, May, September
Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
Study Mode: Online
Fees: £11,520 (regional discounts available)
About the programme
The international business arena is high stakes and filled with diverse players navigating rapid change and complex markets. To succeed, you need sharp strategic skills and cultural insight. This flexible MSc is your ticket to play, equipping you with the resilience to lead in global strategy, international trade, and cross-cultural management.
You’ll gain the tools to analyse complex markets, design adaptive business solutions, and make ethical decisions that create impact across borders. Flexible and designed for working professionals, this programme blends academic rigour with real-world relevance, giving you the playbook you need to lead at the global level.
Accreditation
This programme is delivered by the Brunel Business School, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA).
How you’ll study
Online learning environment
The MSc International Business is delivered through Brunel’s virtual learning environment, giving you access to course materials, recorded lectures, and interactive resources at any time. You will engage with content through video lectures, discussion forums, and collaborative activities with your global cohort. All learning is asynchronous by default, allowing you to study when it suits you, with scheduled touchpoints for tutor interaction and peer discussion.
Weekly study commitment
Full-time students should expect to dedicate approximately 35-40 hours per week to their studies. Part-time students typically commit around 15-20 hours. Your time is split between directed learning activities, independent study and reading, and assessment preparation. The programme runs across three intakes per year – January, May, and September – with a structured module timetable.
Assessment methods
Assessment is through a balance of coursework and examinations. Depending on the module, you may complete written reports and essays, case study analyses, business strategy presentations, and in-class tests. You will also choose two optional modules from areas including global challenges, corporate governance, and knowledge management, allowing you to tailor your assessment experience. The programme culminates in a dissertation project on an international business topic of your choice.
Support and feedback
You will have access to dedicated academic tutors and a student support team throughout your programme. Tutors provide structured feedback on assessments, and you can reach out to your support team for guidance on academic, technical, or administrative matters. Brunel’s online students also have access to the university’s library, careers service, and wellbeing resources.
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
To join this programme, you’ll need:
- A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree or; an equivalent internationally-recognised, relevant qualification in a subject such as public health, allied health, health-related studies, social sciences, or biosciences.
Language requirements
Non-native speakers of English need either of the following:
- IELTS: 6.5 (min 6 in all areas)
- Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
- TOEFL: 90 (min 20 in all)
- BrunELT: 63% (min 58% in all areas)
Modules
All learning is delivered online to fit around your work and personal commitments. You’ll complete 6 core modules, 2 optional modules, and a dissertation, combining theory and practical tasks to prepare you for a successful career in international business.
Topics:
- Marketing environment
- Globalisation vs adaptation
- Culture and mindset
- Market entry strategies
- International marketing mix
Topics:
- Global strategy
- Market entry
- Digital transformation
- Cross-cultural ethics
- Alliances and mergers
Topics:
- International trends
- Political and legal context
- Cultural influences
- Cross-cultural communication
- Negotiation and conflict
- Global HRM
- Mergers and acquisitions
Topics:
- Globalisation trends
- International business theories
- Multinational corporations
- Foreign direct investment
- Global financial systems
- Exchange rate dynamics
- International monetary system
- Balance of payments
- Trade policies
- Global institutions
Topics:
- Trade dynamics
- Barriers and tariffs
- Policy impact
- Regional blocs
- Economic integration
- Multinational firms
- Investment flows
- R&D trends
Topics:
- Research design
- Qualitative and quantitative methods
- Data interpretation
- Literature review techniques
- Ethical research practice
- Critical analysis skills
Topics:
- International HR strategy
- Cross-cultural management
- Regional HR practices
- Global recruitment
- Expatriate management
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Multicultural teams
- HR information systems
Topics:
- Defining global diversity
- Diversity across functions
- Theories of diversity management
- Leadership and change
- Cross-cultural challenges
- Organisational transformation
Topics:
- Shareholder vs stakeholder models
- Corporate social responsibility
- Ethical theories
- Cross-cultural ethics
- Governance structures
- Board roles and accountability
- Sustainability
Topics:
- Knowledge management
- Organisational learning
- Social networks and collaboration
- Innovation strategy
- Web 2.0 tools
- Knowledge transfer
Topics:
- Organisational behaviour
- Management approaches
- Individual differences
- Motivation and satisfaction
- Teams and groups
- Managerial roles
- Leadership development
- Organisational design
- Culture and innovation
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for the MSc International Business are £11,520 for the full programme. This covers all teaching, learning materials, assessments, and access to Brunel’s online resources – there are no hidden costs.
Payment options
Brunel offers a six-month payment plan, allowing you to spread the cost by paying your first instalment at registration and the remaining balance across five equal monthly payments.
Discounts and scholarships
You may be eligible for one or more of the following:
- Early Payment Discount (2%) — applied automatically when you pay in full before your registration date
- Alumni Discount (15%) — for Brunel graduates returning for postgraduate study
- Family Discount (10%) — when a direct family member is also studying at Brunel
- Academic Excellence Award (15%) — for applicants holding a first-class undergraduate degree
Discounts can be combined where eligible. Visit the full fees and funding section for detailed eligibility criteria.
Student loans
UK residents may be eligible for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan through Student Finance England. The loan is not means-tested and is paid directly to you to use towards tuition fees and living costs. Visit gov.uk/masters-loan for full details and to check your eligibility.
Career outcomes
A global business qualification
International business skills are valued across every sector. Organisations operating across borders need professionals who understand global markets, cross-cultural management, and international trade dynamics. The MSc International Business develops exactly these capabilities, positioning you for senior roles in multinational organisations, consultancies, and financial institutions.
Roles our graduates pursue
- Business analyst – evaluating business operations and recommending strategic improvements
- Business development manager – identifying growth opportunities in international markets
- Corporate investment banker – advising on cross-border mergers, acquisitions, and capital markets
- Logistics manager – managing supply chains and distribution networks across regions
Where our graduates work
Brunel International Business graduates work with organisations including Barclays, HSBC, and British Airways. The programme’s combination of strategic thinking and practical application prepares you for roles in banking, consulting, logistics, trade, and corporate strategy.
The AACSB and AMBA advantage
Dual accreditation from AACSB and AMBA is a mark of distinction that employers recognise. It signals that your education meets the highest international standards in business and management, giving you a competitive edge in the global job market.r research roles focused on the social determinants of health.
Why choose this programme
AACSB and AMBA accredited
Brunel Business School holds dual accreditation from AACSB and AMBA – a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools globally. This signals internationally recognised quality and ensures your degree is valued by employers worldwide.
A London university with global standing
Brunel University London is ranked in the top 25% of UK universities. Studying international business from a London institution gives you a natural connection to one of the world’s leading centres for global trade, finance, and commerce.
Breadth with flexibility
Six core modules cover marketing, strategy, management, investment, trade, and research methods. Two optional modules let you specialise in areas such as HRM, corporate governance, or knowledge management, shaping your degree to match your career direction.
Cross-cultural perspective
The programme is built around ethical decision-making and cross-cultural competence, equipping you to operate in multinational environments. You will study alongside a global cohort, gaining exposure to diverse business perspectives as part of your learning experience.
Built for working professionals
Three start dates per year (January, May, September), fully online delivery, and flexible study options mean you do not have to pause your career. Most students complete the programme while working full-time.
Career-driven outcomes
Your MSc is designed with industry skills and knowledge in mind, providing you with the skills you need to secure your chosen career path. Each module is carefully constructed to elevate your knowledge in key areas of international business relevant to industry standards.
Gain in-demand business skills to lead on a global scale
Global business analysis
Evaluate complex international business strategies and challenges with confidence and insight.
Ethical leadership
Integrate social responsibility and ethics into global business decision-making.
Strategic tools
Use advanced models and digital technologies to inform sustainable business choices.
Diversity & inclusion
Develop innovative strategies that foster diverse and inclusive international workplaces.
Business research
Lead original research projects, delivering insights for global business leaders.
Professional growth
Enhance analytical, interpersonal, and technical skills to accelerate your international career.
Become best-in-class in doing business worldwide
Global recognition: Join a top 25% UK university where your degree carries weight worldwide.
Skills that connect: Learn to navigate global business challenges and lead across borders.
Learn by doing: Build practical experience through real projects and tools you’ll use on the job.
Support every step: Benefit from expert guidance designed for busy professionals balancing study and work.
Take the next step
Fill out the form and one of our advisors will be in touch with more information, including our brochure.
Go global with your career
Brunel’s 16,000 business graduates have launched careers with some of the world’s biggest names, including Amazon, PwC, Microsoft, Jaguar Land Rover and L’Oréal. With this degree, you can too.
Earn your MSc with us and unlock opportunities worldwide across sectors, including:
- Business Analyst
- Business Development Manager
- Corporate Investment Banker
- Logistics Manager
