Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Business and Management
This programme enables graduates from any discipline to explore current business processes and techniques. Develop key management, strategy and analytical skills, with options to specialise and undertake a placement year for real-world experience.About
This MSc in Business and Management enables students from non-business backgrounds to transition seamlessly into business management, while allowing those with prior experience to deepen their expertise through specialist pathways.
You will engage with current business processes and techniques, developing key management, strategy and analytical skills, and learn how to apply these within contemporary organisations. With the option to undertake a placement year, you can gain valuable real-world experience, enhance your employability, and stand out in a competitive global market.
Real industry experience with an optional placement year
Build your career while you study with an optional placement year, gaining hands-on experience and global industry connections across finance, marketing, consulting, entrepreneurship and more.
Practical, career-focused learning
A clear 30-credit module structure designed to bridge theory and real-world application through reports, presentations and a core research project addressing live business challenges.
Globally connected, ethically driven leadership development
An internationally focused programme that combines expert teaching, personalised support and a strong emphasis on sustainability, ethics and responsible leadership to prepare you for success in complex global business environments.
Details
Year 1
The MSc (MBM) is designed to give you a broad foundation in Business and Management before allowing you to develop your interests through an elective and an independent research project. Students starting in September begin with core modules in the first semester, followed by an elective, the remaining core module and research methods training in the second semester. Students joining in January begin with the second-semester modules of the September intake, before completing the remaining modules with the following September intake.
During the summer term, you will work independently to carry out your research project, supported by an academic supervisor.
The design of our postgraduate programmes focuses on four taught modules and a capstone project. We believe that simplicity in programme design provides you with a better learning experience. The dynamic and challenging nature of contemporary business does not isolate concepts into small packages – and neither do our programmes. This approach links concepts together as they are in the real world, and enables you to focus in on what really matters.
Core modules
HRL7006
Managing People and Finance
This module will provide an introduction to the complexities of leading, managing and developing people in the workplace. It is one of the core areas in the field of both Human Resource Management and Management, and through an exploration of both relevant theory and practice, it seeks to develop a critical understanding of the complexities and contested nature of leadership and management and the opportunities for leading and developing people, groups and organisations. Additionally, the module aims to provide knowledge and understanding of accounting and finance for managers.
100% Coursework
MKT7001
Marketing and Strategy
In this module, you will develop an understanding of the role of marketing and strategy in a range of contemporary organisations, examining the major themes within the marketing arena to enable you to evaluate and recommend appropriate actions to fulfil objectives. The module introduces key concepts and frameworks of strategy which will develop your ability to apply appropriate analytical techniques used in strategic decision-making. You will explore the relationships between marketing and strategy and other business functions, using case studies to provide an integrative perspective on aspects of marketing and strategy within organisations.
100% Coursework
PBS7000
Capstone Project
60 credits
In this capstone project, you will synthesise and apply learning from the taught element of the programme to a project of your choosing. There is scope for you to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.
100% Coursework
PBS7000J
Capstone Project
For January starters. In this capstone project, you will synthesise and apply learning from the taught element of the programme to a project of your choosing. There is scope for you to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.
STO7006
Operations and Project Management
This module will focus on the key challenges facing Operations and Project Managers. It will examine key topics such as the management of processes, quality improvement, capacity and demand management, project planning, resource scheduling and risk management, along with communication, organisation and leadership. The module provides insights and practical knowledge through the acquisition and application of tools to enable students to lead successful operations and projects.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
Optional modules
ACF7003
International Finance
This module will provide you with a wide perspective on international finance and how this relates to foreign exchange markets, derivatives markets and international parity theories. You will also undertake a thorough examination of managing currency risks with modern instruments of hedging.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
MAR7005
International Procurement Management
This module provides an in-depth understanding of the management context and environment relevant to international procurement and performance indicators.
100% Coursework
MKT7004
Social Media Theory and Practice
This module exposes students to key concepts and theories relating to online communities and social networking. The module will provide the academic and conceptual basis for the development of effective social media engagement strategies such as, social media user behaviour, online community and personalisation.
100% Coursework
STO7012
International Business Strategy for Competitive Advantage
Using case studies, you will focus on some of the strategies that have been most successful in achieving international competitive advantage.
70% Coursework
30% Practicals
Optional placement year
Take the opportunity to complete an optional professional placement year within a range of business and organisational settings.
The placement enables you to apply postgraduate-level knowledge and strategic management skills in professional environments, while developing competencies in leadership, problem-solving, project management, communication and collaboration.
You will strengthen your commercial awareness and understanding of contemporary business challenges and opportunities, while building valuable networks with managers and organisations. This experience will enhance your employability and competitive advantage in the global graduate job market, and help you explore specialist career pathways and future management or leadership roles.
Core modules
PLC7000
Master’s End of Programme Placement
This dynamic module prepares and supports you through an impactful 6-12 month industrial placement. You'll learn how to stand out in a competitive market, crafting a compelling CV, sharpening your applications, and navigating the search process, before stepping into a professional role aligned to your discipline. Your development is captured through a reflective portfolio.
This course is a conversion course, allowing students from outside of a degree in business to seamlessly enter into business management, whilst offering business students the opportunity to delve deeper into specialities.
The MSc Business and Management offers you the flexibility and choice at masters level. You can choose to pursue the following award titles:
- MSc Business and Management
- MSc Business and Management (International Business)
- MSc Business and Management (Finance)
- MSc Business and Management (Marketing)
- MSc Business and Management (Operations and Global Supply Chains)
Start in January or September
If you find that the more traditional September start isn’t ideal timing for you, then our January intake gives you the chance to commence your studies at an alternative time of year.
If choosing a January start for your postgraduate studies, you will be studying the same course content within the same timeframe as those starting in September. So, you can rest assured that you will have the same degree experience, but on your terms.
Plymouth Business School is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Course-specific academic regulations
This course has unique rules relating to:
- In-year referrals
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Careers, industry and research
I’ve had an excellent experience at Plymouth. I’ve ended up with a slight shift in career path, but with some great opportunities to work in some exciting businesses and sectors in the South West!
MSc Business and Management graduate Ben worked as Chief Executive of Devon and Cornwall Business Council, advocating regional business, building partnerships and driving the organisation forward.
Find out more about Ben in our video.
Enhance your employability with an optional placement year
Through our close links with organisations across a wide range of sectors – including finance, consulting, technology, marketing and multinational business – you will have the opportunity to further develop your expertise within real-world business environments.
For many postgraduate students, the placement year provides an important bridge between academic study and professional practice, helping to build confidence, industry insight and clearer career direction. Employers increasingly value masters graduates who can combine advanced academic knowledge with relevant professional experience, making the placement year an excellent opportunity to enhance future career progression.
Placement opportunities may include areas such as:
-
?General business and project management
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@Marketing, social media and communications
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?Finance and accounting
-
@Consulting and professional services
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?International business and trade
-
@Retail, logistics and operations
Graduate with a wealth of experience
You’ll graduate ready to shape your future in a dynamic range of business careers, from human resources and operations to finance, marketing and strategy.
Many of our students go on to secure management-level roles with global organisations such as Ernst & Young GmbH, DHL International Ltd., Deloitte LLP, Novell Worldwide, and HP Enterprise Services.
Our careers service
The University of Plymouth has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks – working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the careers service space within the Student Hub. We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.
A home to cultivate business leaders
Our Fitzroy Building is the home of the Plymouth Business School, providing students with specialist facilities and social learning spaces. Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite for tracking stock markets and
The Cube – support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
The
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite offers the opportunity to learn how to analyse the markets, assess economic scenarios and interpret key news developments that might impact the global economy.
“The most interesting and beneficial aspect of the whole Bloomberg system is the sheer amount of real data and accurate information available which is priceless when completing real-world business case studies!”
Mathew Cartwright, Plymouth Business School student
Meet your lecturers
We’re Team Plymouth. As one of our team, we’re here to help you succeed. Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Dr Irfan Irfan
Lecturer in International Business Management
Programme Lead
Dr Carl Evans
Lecturer in Operations, Logistics and Strategic Management
Dr Charles Thornton
Lecturer in Service Operations Management and Business Strategy (Education)
The staff at the Plymouth Business School are always super helpful when I have trouble understanding a concept – providing time for me to ask any questions or reword a point they made. They also provide the information and tools to understand and apply these concepts successfully, and see how these concepts operate in real life. My advice to prospective students is to take full advantage of the faculty – they have an incredible wealth of knowledge and experiences that you will find interesting and useful.
Natalia, MSc Business and Management student
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with a society
Postgraduate study is about more than academic achievement. Joining a society is a great way to connect with other students, build friendships, develop new interests, and create a healthy balance alongside your studies.
Whether you're looking to meet people with similar interests, try something new, expand your professional network, or simply take a break from academic commitments, there's a society for everyone.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2027-2028 academic year
Full-time study
£12,700 per year
£12,700 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
To be confirmed per 10 credits
To be confirmed per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2027-2028 academic year
Full-time study
£20,100 per year
£20,100 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate master's loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Normal minimum entry requirements are a 2:2 honours degree in any discipline, or an equivalent professional qualification. Candidates who do not possess a first degree or who have been awarded a third class honours or pass degree may be considered for the programme on the basis of previous work experience or relevant training.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8335
8335
Duration
1 year
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can find out more on our
International students page.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8335
8335
Duration
1 year
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can find out more on our
International students page.
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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