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Business Management Masters Subject Area

Masters in International Business

At a glance

  • Learn from academics who are leading authorities in this subject area and have helped to develop key frameworks and define the field of International Business
  • The programme introduces you to the global world of work so that you can be ready to make informed, strategic business decisions upon graduating
  • Examine the strategic choices multinational enterprises make to compete in an increasingly global economy
  • Learn to connect the ‘micro’ firm view with the ‘macro’ view of countries and regions
  • Complete an industry study challenge through an overseas visit
Locations
Henley Whiteknights
Subject area(s)
Management, International Business
Start Date
September 2024
Duration
12 months
Attendance
Full-time
Programme Director
Reading Photo
Dr Kaz Kirollos

Overview

98% employed post graduation
Masters Careers Survey 2022
96% of students would recommend their programme
Masters Careers Survey 2022

On this Masters programme, you will examine the strategies multinational firms use to compete in a global economy. Also, the development and policy challenges they create, from the perspectives of both developing and developed countries.

Through this MSc degree you will learn how firms are organised internally. Additionally, you will take an holistic view of the international business environment, regarding the competitiveness of firms and industries. You will therefore be able to connect the 'micro' firm view with the 'macro' view of countries and regions.

The Masters in International Business programme is among Henley’s portfolio of Flagship Masters in Management programmes. The Masters in Management programme is ranked within the Top 10 in the UK by the Financial Times in 2023.

What is unique to Henley’s Masters in International Business?

In the module The Evolution of Multinational Enterprises students will explore distinct international business approaches of US and European multinationals versus those from emerging markets. Offered exclusively on the Masters in International Business programme, students will have the opportunity to delve into the emergence of digital giants like Alibaba, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and Google, as well as technology start-ups. The module provides a theoretical foundation on multinational corporations, and students will gain insights into government perspectives on multinational growth and learn about strategies employed by countries to attract foreign direct investment.

No.8 in the UK
for Masters in Management
(Financial Times 2023)
No.8 in the UK
for Masters in Management
(The Economist 2021)

The Henley Pre-Masters Course Suite

Exclusively available to Henley Business School offer holders, the Pre-Masters course suite comprises of innovative short courses designed and developed by Henley faculty on the Futurelearn platform, one of the leading online learning platforms.

Optional modules Credits

This course will provide building blocks of knowledge to help you prepare for your learning journey in the area of your choice as well as equip you with key employability and study skills for successfully navigating your studies and professional career.

This pre-study interactive course is designed by Henley Business School faculty, the University of Reading Study Advice Team and the International Study and Language Institute. The course aims to prepare you for your learning journey at Henley and focuses on helping you build important study skills to succeed in your Masters and beyond. Skills such as curiosity and independent thinking, effective communication and collaboration, digital capabilities, storytelling, empathy and professional integrity are not only important in your course itself but are also sought after by employers in all areas of business. Therefore, they are instrumental in succeeding in your professional career. The learning journey of our Masters programmes is designed in a way that allows you to build such skills and this course intends to demonstrate exactly how, and therefore help you to make the most of your Masters.

N/A

A course delivered online by Henley faculty and you will receive online support from one of our teaching staff members and be able to interact with other prospective students in your course.

This pre-study interactive course is designed by Henley Business School faculty to introduce you to the world of coding in Python. According to recent employer surveys, coding is a top 5 employability skill in the new world of work. The World Economic forum includes technology design and programming in the top 10 skills of 2025. Coding is an extremely powerful skill to have going forward in all areas of business and finance. Due to the importance of coding skills in your future, you will be using coding in some of your courses depending on your choice of programme at Henley Business School. So, this pre-study course can be seen as a stepping stone in your learning journey. Even if coding is not directly utilised as a part of your programme, completing this course, earning the certificate and complementing this with some further independent learning, could set you apart in an increasingly competitive job market. Python is the most utilised programming language in the world and so the purpose of this course is for you to learn the fundamentals of Python, and how to use it to solve practical problems in your area of interest.

N/A

Semester 1

Compulsory modules Credits

This module aims to introduce students to the core concepts and models underlying contemporary strategic management, their theoretical and empirical foundations, their limitations, the arguments surrounding them and their practical application to real issues facing real companies. This module provides students with an understanding of the conceptual and analytical tools of strategic management and economics.

  • Theories, frameworks and introduction
  • Internal resources and competencies of firms
  • External environment in which firms operate
  • The process of internationalisation
  • Globalisation and regional integration
  • Collaborative behaviour and strategic alliances
  • Integration/responsiveness framework and strategy

Academic authors
Professor rajneesh narula 397 3 Rajneesh Narula 75e5pfi6j
Professor Rajneesh Narula
Jong Min Lee002 2 2 75e5pfilu
Dr Jongmin Lee
20 [10 ECTS credits]

Managers are increasingly faced with the challenge of operating across borders, while simultaneously expected to have general knowledge across wide range of business functions. The module gives a cross functional perspective of undertaking business in different countries, showing the challenge of managing successfully in an increasingly complex and global environment.

Academic authors
Reading Photo
Dr Kaz Kirollos
20 [10 ECTS credits]

The course aims to provide students with an understanding of the changes in our theoretical understanding of international business. The understanding of multinational enterprises (MNE) can serve as a basis for practical evaluation of the behaviour and performance of these companies.

Academic authors
Reading Photo
Dr Kaz Kirollos
20 [10 ECTS credits]

This module focuses on the economic analysis firms' decision to engage in international business activity, including the choice to become an exporter or a multinational enterprise, and the economic effects of these choices on the home and host countries.

Academic authors
Davide castellani 397 3 Davide Castellani 75e5pfi5e
Professor Davide Castellani
20 [10 ECTS credits]

Semester 2

Compulsory modules Credits
This module aims to examine international business strategy and financial performance of the multinational enterprise (MNE). It will provide students with an understanding of what globalisation and regionalisation mean for today’s managers, the best way to extend their knowledge of how MNEs function, how to turn the messages from the academic literature into effective business strategies within an MNE and how to measure the financial performance of MNEs.
  • Conceptual foundation of international business strategy: seven concepts and one unifying framework
  • Implications of international business strategy for MNE performance; review of financial analysis; practical applications
  • The critical role of firm-specific advantages (FSAs)
  • The nature of home country specific advantages and the problem with host country specific advantages
  • Combining firm-specific advantages and location-specific advantages
  • Introduction to international financial management in MNEs
  • Dynamics of entry-mode strategies: foreign distributors, strategic alliance, mergers and acquisitions

Academic authors
Quyen Nguyen 75e5pfimu
Dr Quyen Nguyen
20 [10 ECTS credits]

This course studies the contemporary international business environment from a macro, meso, and micro economic perspective. Theories from economics, political science, economic geography, and international business are examined. Students learn about global economic developments, the role of institutions and political economics systems, and the impact of technological changes and the differences of regional and national locations in business.

Academic authors
Jose Eduardo Ibarra Olivo
Dr J. Eduardo Ibarra-Olivo
20 [10 ECTS credits]
Optional modules Credits

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of marketing strategies and practices as they apply in a global context. This will be achieved by analysing the global marketing environment, marketing opportunities and strategy options, and the global marketing mix. As such, the module tackles both the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of global marketing management.

  • Theoretical issues relating to the rationale for global marketing and the internationalisation process
  • An analysis of the global marketing environment and factors influencing buyer behaviour
  • Planning global marketing strategy and its evolution over time
  • Factors affecting global product, pricing, distribution and communication programmes
  • Standardisation versus adaptation
Academic authors
IMG 4972 2 75nmgijnt
Melisa Mete
20 [10 ECTS credits]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent a large share of our economies and a leading force in economic development. This module focuses on such enterprises and explores the distinctive features of management in the SME environment. An important component of this module is the preparation of a Business Plan.

Academic authors
Dr Anlan Chen Photo
Dr Anlan Chen
20 [10 ECTS credits]

The aim of this module is to understand the two-way link between marketing and sustainability. Specifically, it explores how marketing can be used to encourage more sustainable and responsible consumption and how sustainable marketing approaches can impact organisational performance.

Academic authors
Irene Garnelo Gomez Profile Pic Jun18 75iuglcob
Dr Irene Garnelo-Gomez
20 [10 ECTS credits]

The module provides intensive experiential learning in an international context, either virtually or via direct travel. This is an opportunity for students group visits a particular country, institutions and particular business communities to explore sustainable and wider management issues and the methods the community has found for addressing these issues.

Academic authors
Yelena Kalyuzhnova002 75e5pfilw
Professor Yelena Kalyuzhnova
20 [10 ECTS credits]

This module examines organisations that are engaged in creative or cultural activities and the industries they create from an interdisciplinary management perspective. Students will define and understand the parameters of the creative or cultural industries; alongside identify the management challenges faced by organisations in these sectors; and examine strategies for addressing them.

20 [10 ECTS]

Summer term

Optional modules Credits

Despite its profound effect on competition, business culture continues to be an elusive concept for managers. This module focuses on the impact of business culture on competition. It comprises an interdisciplinary approach with perspectives from strategic management, human resource management, general social sciences and the humanities.

Academic authors
Dr denise tsang 397 3 Denise Tsang 75e5pfi5g
Dr Denise Tsang
20 [10 ECTS credits]

Students will have an opportunity to draw on knowledge and experience gained across the programme and apply them to a contemporary business problem or issue.

20 [10 ECTS credits]

This module gives students the opportunity to pursue a work placement between one and three months with an external organisation broadly related to their degree studies. The module will enable students to put into practice the knowledge they have learnt throughout their degree, gain relevant experience alongside the opportunity to develop the practical skills needed for the world of work. The placement will take place in the summer period (June – August).

20 [10 ECTS]

*The module or course content descriptions set out on this page are correct for those being taught in the current academic year. Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.

A holistic approach

Effective leadership requires more than first-class business acumen, it requires a degree of self-awareness and sensitivity. Our Masters programmes offer you a unique practice-centred approach to teaching equipping you with the tools to become a compelling leader. This approach creates emotionally intelligent graduates who can be fully effective in their chosen careers.

How you will learn

Henley has a strong reputation for the practical application of business ideas and concepts. We are underpinned by academic excellence and the strength of our research. We offer high-quality technical skills training as well as a deep understanding of the importance of personal development for leaders. This is a thread that is woven through all of our Masters programmes.

Our Masters programmes feature a mix of core and optional modules, tailoring your degree towards your needs and career ambitions. You will complete up to 10 taught modules during your programme, totalling 180 credits. One module usually equates to 20 credits or 10 hours of work per week. Your week will include lectures, tutorials, workshops and personal study, with each accounting for 25% of your time on average. This provides you with the opportunity to discuss and explore the material in depth with your lecturers and fellow students.

You will be introduced to the latest thinking and research findings then have the opportunity to challenge those that have created it. You will also explore real-world issues, tackle current business challenges, and interact with guest lectures and speakers from industry. This gives you the opportunity to test, extend and refine your knowledge and skills with confidence.

How we assess you

You will learn and be assessed through a wide variety of teaching methods depending on your chosen postgraduate course. These include online materials, guest lectures, group assignments, case studies, field visits, dealing room simulations, presentations, applied projects, consultancy work and examinations.

On average examinations of core modules form between 15 - 50% of the assessed work. The remaining comes from coursework, including a written dissertation or project depending on your chosen programme.

Ongoing support

While Masters students are self-motivated and determined individuals, study at this level can present additional pressures which we take seriously. Lecturers are available to discuss module content and you can meet with your academic tutor. Support staff are available to help with anything that may arise during your time at Henley.

UK/Home

Year of Entry Cost
2024 £14,500

International (incl. EU)

Year of Entry Cost
2024 £27,000

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to support high-potential students. All applications are automatically considered for a scholarship. No separate scholarship application is necessary. Simply submit your application for a Masters programme starting in 2024 and you will be automatically notified if you are successful. Shortlisting and selection are based on academic merit and the candidate’s potential as demonstrated in the application form. For more details, visit our scholarships webpage.

Entry requirement Criteria
Undergraduate degree Minimum 2:1 or the equivalent from an Internationally recognised university
Degree discipline Any discipline

English Language Requirements

Studying in a second language can be challenging. If your English language ability is below the minimum requirement, we may ask for evidence of proficiency. Alternatively, we may ask you to attend an English language course before you begin your studies with us.

Requirement Criteria
IELTS 6.5 with no component below 6.0 in any sub-skills

Pre-sessional English Programme

The Pre-sessional English Programme is for international students who need to meet their degree programme English language requirements. Our courses equip you with the skills and language needed for academic success, including critical thinking, self-reflection, learner autonomy, research skills and integrating sources. The Pre-sessional English Programme is accredited by the global association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes, which guarantees you will receive a high-quality student experience.

Find out about our comprehensive range of Pre-Sessional English courses

Acceptance of LanguageCert Online and DuoLingo English qualifications

We accept the non-SELT version of LanguageCert (which includes the online version) and DuoLingo as suitable English language qualifications. These can be accepted for direct entry onto Undergraduate (except Speech and Language Therapy), Postgraduate Taught (except Speech and Language Therapy) and Postgraduate Research programmes.

For information on individual programme requirements and other English language qualifications, please visit our English requirement equivalent page.

If you require specific advice on your qualification please contact admissions directly by e-mail  or telephone at +44 (0) 118 378 5289.

UK visa requirements

If you are not a national of the European Union (EU), you may need to obtain a UK visa. This visa will allow to live and study in the UK. See the  UK Border Agency website. Contact the University's International Office with any questions:  intoff@reading.ac.uk.

Graduate Route

The UK's Graduate Route post-study work visa allows you to apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate, with the opportunity to undertake skilled work. Visit the University website for the latest information.

The Business School’s courses are designed with a strong focus on the entrepreneurial perspectives that graduates need.

“I went from an unstable cash-in-hand job in the music industry to working at the leading consultancy in the business. I've only been able to do this because of the strategic, entrepreneurial and creative lens the Masters in Management was able to provide me in a way no other university could match.”
Management Graduate, now working as a Research Consultant and MIDiA, UK

Where are our 2021 graduates now?

98% employed post graduation
Masters Careers Survey 2022
96% of students would recommend their programme
Masters Careers Survey 2022
£31,519 average salary one year post-graduation
Masters Careers Survey 2022

2021 graduates in this area are working at the following organisations:

Siemens
PwC
Deloitte
Investec Bank
Knight Frank
Cloudreach
Financial Times
University of Oxford
Banco de Brazil

23 UPM 041 PGT Pie BM l
22 MIS 036 BM map

Please note the above statistics are based on respondents to our Masters Outcomes Survey in 2022, which was completed by our 2021 graduates, 12 months after graduation.

Respondents are from the following programmes: MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation, MSc Human Resource Management, MSc International Business and Finance, MSc Management, MSc Management (International Business), MSc Marketing (Consumer Marketing), MSc Marketing (Digital Marketing) and MSc Marketing (International Marketing).

How can Henley Careers work with you?

We have an award-winning careers team that will support you through your postgraduate studies and four years after graduation.

Here is how Henley Careers can help you:

  • Careers Consultant appointments: Our Careers Consultant are here to help and support you with any careers related concern that you might have. Whether it’s CV advice, practicing for an interview, providing feedback if applications aren't successful or support planning your career goals. We are here to help empower you to progress in your career.
  • Events: Henley Careers organise numerous events aimed to help you build your confidence, develop the skills employers are looking for. Additionally, network with employers and expand your industry knowledge.
  • Alumni support: You can continue to book one-to-one appointments with your Careers Consultant and use our online resources. For up to four years after graduating we’re here to help and support in your career.
  • Career Smart: Get a head start in securing a graduate job by taking part in our online course, Career Smart. You can expect to learn about the graduate recruitment cycle in the UK. As well as where to look and how to start applying to jobs, and the different roles available to you.

For more information  please see our Careers page.

Continuing your career

After Graduating from your Masters you may follow a variety of career paths. These include roles in business development or general management, with a range of employers including large corporations or multinational enterprises or government agencies.

Our alumni tell us that this programme gives them the key skills and knowledge required to build a career in multinational enterprises or government agencies.

UK top 10 (No.8)
for Careers progress in Masters in Management
(Financial Times 2023)

Apply for 2024 entry now

Apply online  now through the University of Reading’s online application service.

The online application service allows you to complete your application information, attach electronic copies of your academic transcripts, certificates and other supporting information. It also provides a facility for an email request to be sent to your referees. This enables the referees to send your supporting references directly to us.

When to apply

We operate a rolling admissions system and it is recommended that you apply early to secure your place. There is no specific deadline and applications will be considered until the programme is full. However, to allow us time to process your application we recommend that you apply by the following dates:

UK/Home applicants International applicants
1 August 1 July

After you apply

You will receive a confirmation email when we receive your application form. Your application is then reviewed by a member of staff. If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter outlining any necessary entry criteria you will need to meet. You'll then be asked to confirm your acceptance of this offer.

If you require a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your visa, details will be sent by email once all conditions of the offer have been met.

Throughout the admissions process we will keep you updated with key information via email. We also provide opportunities to interact with faculty and staff online.

Find us on Facebook  and keep up-to-date with news and events at Henley or ask us a question. In addition, you can speak to a current student, our students are always happy to share their Henley experience.

Our students and alumni are always keen to share their Henley experience. Whether you are a prospective applicant or already applied to a Masters programme at Henley Business School. You can ask questions to a current student by clicking the “Chat to our students” button below.

When contacting one of our students, please introduce yourself and the Masters programme you have applied for.

Speak to a current student

Contact us

If you have any questions, please contact us by email at postgraduate@henley.ac.uk or by phone on +44 (0)118 378 7593.

An image of Joe Bassett
“I valued the variation in modules and the ability to choose and adapt the course to my interests. The lecturers were always happy to engage and welcomed discussion.”
Joe Bassett Management Graduate at Rhenus Logistics Masters in International Business
“I had some doubts before undertaking my Masters as it was in a subject I had no prior academic knowledge in. However, this year has been incredible and I am so thankful that I took the challenge.”
Joe Earlam MSc Management (International Business) Masters in International Business
“My year at Henley Business School has been transformative, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge for my current job. All of my experiences at Henley have greatly contributed to my work and integration into my team. I'm grateful for Henley…”
Yunyi Zhang Party Affairs Management at Shanghai East Hospital Masters in International Business

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