International Business | MSc | University of Lincoln

Dr Suhaer Yunus and Dr Alex Alterskye - Programme Leaders

Dr Suhaer Yunus is a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management and has experience of working with secondary data relating to work organisation, human resource management practices, and employee-related outcomes. Dr Alex Alterskye completed his PhD at the University of Lincoln entitled: 'Examining the fields of entrepreneurship in Hull and Liverpool: an investigation into the context of entrepreneurship using the field construct, utilising a Bourdieusian theoretical lens and the institutional logics perspective.'

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Welcome to MSc International Business

Knowledge across a range of disciplines is required by students looking to understand business operations in an international context, and this course aims to help students develop the necessary knowledge and qualities to compete effectively in both the domestic and international labour markets.

Through classes and seminars, students are able to gain a firm grounding in the theories and practice of international business, enabling them to contribute to the performance of various kinds of organisations all over the world.

The programme offers a high level of support for international students. This includes support in English language, orientation to studying in the UK, postgraduate study skills, the development of enterprising and employable career capabilities, and pastoral support. Close engagement with the International Office, English Language Centre, Student Services, Careers and Employability team, library, and other central services are essential aspects of this support.

Business graduates may use this programme to examine the subject area in more depth, while those from other backgrounds can combine their existing knowledge and skills with international business theory.

This programme is available for both a September and February start. Optional modules may be restricted for those choosing to enrol in February due to student numbers, timetabling, and staffing constraints. Please note that February admission is only available for full-time study.

The course is also offered with two separate pathways. Students can either complete one year of study or undertake a two-year course where one year is spent in Professional Practice to gain hands-on experience through a paid placement. Students will be responsible for sourcing their own paid placements but will be supported by dedicated employability specialists. Please note: students need to choose the Professional Practice pathway from the outset when applying for the course, and it is only available for a September start.

How You Study

Students on this programme are expected to read extensively and stay aware of current theoretical debates within the literature, including relevant journals.

Lectures are used primarily in discipline-bound areas. Lecture materials may be enhanced by audiovisual material in the early stages of the course to provide additional aid to overseas students facing an unfamiliar learning environment. Classes are supplemented with discussion and debate on the rapid and often spontaneous changes in international business. Seminars are also a feature of the course.

MSc International Business students are expected to study six core modules which are designed to develop understanding of international business, communication skills, and other essential graduate attributes. Students can then select two optional modules based on their academic own individual interests and career aspirations.

The degree concludes with a dissertation which is designed to encourage innovation and diverse pathways to the final assessed product. In this respect, the dissertation is an extended project that can accommodate a range of independent work.

Core modules:

- Finance and Accounting
- International Marketing and Customers
- People and Global Organisations
- Research Methods and Design
- Strategy Making
- Understanding International Business

The following is an illustrative list of optional modules. These will run as far as at least 10 students select them. Timetabling arrangements may limit the availability of some modules. As the options reflect staff research interests, they may change over time.

- Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development
- Comparative Human Resource Management
- Decision Analysis for Managers
- Destination Management and Marketing
- Digital Marketing
- Disaster Management
- Gender, Power and Business
- Global Supply Strategies
- Group Consultancy Project
- International Entrepreneurship
- Marketing of Luxury
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Sustainability Leadership
- The Multinational Enterprise in Context

Contact hours and Independent Study

Each module typically consists of two or three weekly teaching hours over a teaching term. Students will normally study four modules per term and therefore eight to 12 hours per week. Part-time students will usually study two modules per term, equating to four to six hours per week. Hours of study may vary from term to term for both full and part-time students and can be spread throughout the week.

Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least four to five hours in independent study. For more detailed information please contact the Programme Leader.

Students who enrol on a February start for this programme will be offered the core modules, but electives will be restricted. Availability of electives will be subject to student numbers, timetabling, and staffing constraints. Please note that February admission is only available for full-time study.

An Introduction to Your Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Dissertation 2022-23BUS9036MLevel 72022-23The dissertation provides an opportunity for students with a range of experience and interests to apply and develop their existing skills and knowledge to an independent study project, which affords an opportunity for both the expression of original thought and creativity; together with the application of analytical skills and critical reasoning. Our approach to dissertation is to facilitate innovative approaches and diverse pathways to the final assessed piece of work; in effect the dissertation is an extended research project. The dissertation topic should be aligned to students' subject of study.CoreFinance and accounting 2022-23ACC9011MLevel 72022-23This module is designed to introduce concepts and techniques for costing and break-even analysis and brings in the notion of pricing from a larger viewpoint in the market as well as from a strategic management view. Later, the module aims to cover the topics of financial analysis, budgeting and planning, and the sources of finance.CoreInternational Entrepreneurship 2022-23BUS9024MLevel 72022-23Entrepreneurship is an essential skillset in the development at global level of new and existing businesses, social enterprises, and more broadly societies and their economies. Enterprise is defined as the application of creative ideas and innovations to practical situations, combining creativity, ideas development, and problem-solving with expression, communication, and practical action. Entrepreneurship is the application of enterprise skills to creating and growing organisations in an international context in order to identify and build on opportunities. This module draws on the latest UK QAA Guidance on Enterprise and Entrepreneurship in Higher Education and aims to develop, at an international level, enterprise awareness, an entrepreneurial mindset, and entrepreneurial capability, which can lead to entrepreneurial effectiveness which can be applied in a range of contexts.CoreInternational Marketing and Customers 2022-23MKT9124MLevel 72022-23The aim of this module is to provide students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of marketing concepts applied in an international context. The module is designed to provide students with a clear comprehension of marketing tools available and their use within an international environment, understanding the cultural diversity of their customers.CorePeople and Global Organisations 2022-23MGT9130MLevel 72022-23This module aims to introduce learners to the realities of organisations and the challenges of management practice in the global business arena. It aims to promote thinking critically about organisations as complex, process-based cultural systems and as constantly developing social structures operating on the basis of people relations and interactions. An increasing number of firms have activities spread around the world and a critical reflection on the impact of culture on business activities and individuals in this context is of vital importance. Cross border business activities are underpinned by cultural interaction and the module will develop knowledge about and understanding of the impact of (national) cultures on management practice. Various levels of culture will be studied, with a special focus on national cultures and whether and how they affect the behaviours of firms and individuals. Students will be given the opportunity to collect specialized insights into certain themes, firms or cultures through focused assignments.CoreResearch Methods and Design 2022-23BUS9056MLevel 72022-23This module aims to prepare students for undertaking the research for their Masters dissertation or project, and other assignments. It is designed to introduce students to the core principles of research design, the research methods they are likely to encounter in their research, the basics of research design and the organisation of independent study.CoreStrategy Making 2022-23BUS9048MLevel 72022-23Strategy is the heart of every organisation. This module explores how strategy is conceived, how it affects the organisation and how the organisation can be designed to realise its strategy efficiently and effectively. The module aims to support students in developing their strategic thinking skills through a review of diverse theories, models and practical exercises.CoreUnderstanding International Business 2022-23BUS9032MLevel 72022-23Understanding International Business is a core module for MSc International Business students. Successful completion will assist you to understand the general environment of international business, setting up country selection criteria and country evaluation in the context of international business. It will also develop your skill to conduct basic research and professional report preparation.CoreComparative Human Resource Management 2022-23HRM9039MLevel 72022-23This module is designed to introduce students to the principal issues underlying international and comparative human resource management (IHRM) in a global context. Such issues have risen in prominence due to increasing trade liberalisation, globalisation, spread of multinational corporations (MNCs), outsourcing to Asia, developmental focus on Africa and economic integration within the European Union. As firms increasingly internationalise, suitable strategies for managing human resources have become critical to competition between the MNCs. Students can develop an insight into managing human resources in different national contexts and examine those global and national factors that impact approaches taken to international human resource management. More specifically, the module aims to discuss and analyse those factors which result in variations in HRM practices and policies across national business systems.OptionalDigital Marketing 2022-23MKT9118MLevel 72022-23This module provides the opportunity to explore how the increasing pressures and opportunities created by new media formats and electronic communication tools are shaping marketing strategy. The module covers themes such as social media marketing, mobile marketing, data analytics, and digital marketing campaigns.OptionalGlobal Procurement and Supply Strategy 2022-23LOG9705MLevel 72022-23In order to ensure organisational success, we must seek to manage relationships with upstream and downstream suppliers and customers to deliver increased customer value at less cost to the supply chain overall. It is often argued that an organisation is only as a good as its supply chain and that the global supply chain can be a key source of competitive advantage. In the age of globalisation, many organisations are only as good as their global supply chains. Global supply chains give the organisation access to strategic resources and enable them to compete in global markets. Procurement and Supply Chain Management as a discipline has changed considerably in many companies and organisations in the recent past. Considering the amount of money generally involved in the preparation and execution of procurement and supply decisions, this is not a surprise and it has been argued that an effective and efficient operating purchasing and supply function can make an important contribution to company results and also add significant value. Traditionally, the procurement department has acted as the intermediary which negotiates the agreements and contracts with suppliers and subsequently monitors their compliance to those agreements. However, this traditional role is changing rapidly and procurement and supply chain managers are assuming more strategic roles within organisations, focused on achieving better performance from suppliers though approaches such as more active management of supplier relationships.OptionalProfessional Practice 2022-23TOU9167MLevel 72022-23This course is also available with a Professional Practice pathway. This two-year version of the degree provides the opportunity to undertake a period of professional practice at the end of first year to gain hands-on experience through a paid work placement. Students will be responsible for sourcing their own paid placements but will be supported by academic staff. The professional practice (PP) period is not credit bearing and will not count towards the overall degree; however, to have the PP element attached to the degree, students are required to present a placement project linked to their experience while being in industry (e.g. learning outcomes, key skills developed, nature of the work and responsibilities). The presentation can be delivered face-to-face while the academic placement supervisor is visiting the student/organisation or via Skype if there are limitations (e.g. location). Throughout the PP period, students will be in touch with the University by having regular contact with their allocated supervisor. Students will be expected to complete a negotiated work based project as their dissertation.OptionalThe Multinational Enterprise in Context 2022-23ECO9001MLevel 72022-23Students explore the historical development of foreign direct investment activity. This gives them an opportunity to understand the main advantages to be gained from firms engaging further in international business activities as well as understand the workings of a global enterprise in a dynamic world economy.Optional

How you are assessed

A variety of assessment methods are used during this course including essays, reports, presentations, and group work. These assessments are designed to develop the skills needed in industry.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly - usually within 15 working days of the submission date.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study. Learn how Master's and PhD loans, scholarships, and studentships can help you fund your studies on our Postgraduate Fees and Funding pages.

Programme Fees

Programme-Specific Additional Costs

For each course you may find that there are additional costs. With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.

International Postgraduate Taught Application Deadline

Please note that international applications for taught postgraduate programmes starting in September 2022 have now closed.

Entry Requirements 2022-23

Honours degree or equivalent.

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/ . These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Research at Lincoln International Business School

The tutors which deliver the modules of MSc International Business are consummate researchers and well versed in the art of bringing their topic areas to life with both lectures and seminar venues. During the programme, students will be offered the opportunity to take part in primary research across the different specialisms covered within the modules.

Industry Expertise

Lincoln International Business School has an experienced team of staff, which is made up of academically and professionally qualified lecturers with relevant industrial experience and finance experts with wide research interests.

The School hosts a series of visiting speakers each year. As part of the School, students will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts. Previous speakers have included representatives from organisations such as Deloitte, Santander, HSBC, Innocent, The Institute of Internal Auditors and Sir David Tweedie (ex-Chairman of the IASB).

Students also have the chance to build their skills and knowledge further with extra-curricular activities such as joining a society, volunteering or becoming a Student Ambassador.

100 Funded Field Trip Places

Lincoln International Business School students can expand their horizons and see international business in action by joining funded international trips to exciting overseas destinations.

LIBS 100 gives students the opportunity to enhance their global mindset, connect with our global community and partners, and learn from international experts through 100 funded field trip places each academic year.

Places are open to all students enrolled on a programme within Lincoln International Business School.

Find out more about our 100 funded field trip places for students.

Career and Personal Development

A postgraduate degree can lead to a variety of career opportunities in areas such as consultancy, finance, HR and marketing. It also opens up the possibility for exciting global travel.

The University Careers and Employability Team offer qualified advisors who can work with you to provide tailored, individual support and careers advice during your time at the University. As a member of our alumni we also offer one-to-one support in the first year after completing your course, including access to events, vacancy information and website resources; with access to online vacancies and virtual and website resources for the following two years.

This service can include one-to-one coaching, CV advice and interview preparation to help you maximise your future opportunities.
The service works closely with local, national and international employers, acting as a gateway to the business world.

Working in Partnership

Lincoln International Business School works with students and organisations to enhance the contribution of business to society. For students, that means developing their business skills and knowledge to improve their career readiness.

The University of Lincoln is a member of AACSB, a global nonprofit association connecting educators, students, and businesses to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders. Find out more.

Postgraduate Events

Find out more about how postgraduate study can help further your career, develop your knowledge, or even prepare you to start your own business at one of our postgraduate events.

Find out More

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Key Information

MSc International Business