Postgraduate students confidently staring into the camera at night time

GUARANTEED INTERNSHIPS WITH EVERY MASTER'S DEGREE

Course overview

This dynamic and wide-ranging programme is suitable for graduates of all disciplines and is a fantastic platform to launch or progress your business career at a top business school.

You’ll benefit from a detailed insight into many areas of business, from strategy to operations and from marketing to accounting. You’ll also gain key leadership and management skills. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped to go into a variety of roles for a range of organisations, including international companies and those operating in the voluntary and community sectors.

You will graduate with essential core business skills, enabling you to think critically about business strategy, understand the corporate skills of management, understand the key mechanisms behind the concepts of management, and gain an in-depth knowledge of vital areas of business, such as finance and marketing. Throughout the course you will be supported by lecturers who can translate their knowledge into the teaching experience, and help build your skills, getting you ready for the business world.

Improving our students’ learning experience and wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do, and that is why we are implementing an innovative learning approach known as block teaching. This will enhance our students’ educational journey and emotional wellbeing.

The benefits of block teaching are numerous: it supports a balanced study-life experience, reduces the stress of multitasking across various subjects, and fosters a better understanding of each topic by concentrating on it fully. Students are more engaged, motivated, and resilient, which can lead to better learning outcomes and a healthier environment.

This programme is dual accredited to a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice. Students who successfully complete all mapped modules will be eligible for this professional qualification (subject to CMI moderation).

“The structure of the course is well designed to cover most business areas, and the module leaders and programme director are so kind and supportive. I also enjoyed running simulations and working in groups for various projects and assignments.”

Raj Navinkumar Thakkar

Why Business and Management at Aston University?

CMI accredited

This programme is dual accredited to a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice

Recognised for quality

Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation

Top 5% in the world

Top 5% of global evaluated institutions (QS World University Rankings 2026)

8th in the UK

We have been ranked 8th in the UK (General Management; Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings, 2025)

Top 100 in Europe

Aston Business School ranked 15th in the UK and 90th in Europe (Financial Times European Business Schools ranking 2025)

Tackling business strategy today

Dr Uche Ogwude discusses the challenges of business strategy in today’s environment and the best way to analyse them.

Gain a competitive edge

As well as opening doors, an Aston University postgraduate degree builds on your experience, develops your skills and gives you a competitive edge in a crowded job market.

Course description

Business and Management

Our Business and Management course enables you to explore, test and apply your learning through various teaching methods, providing a deeper understanding of the subject throughout the course.

What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you. You will benefit from applied learning, research-informed teaching and constructive assessment. There are practical activities, including simulation exercises, reflective case studies, collaborative group work, thought-provoking class discussions as well as inspiring lectures and tutorials.

We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.

What you will provide
It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies – understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, a willingness to learn and an ambition and drive to excel.

What skills we teach
The course will provide you with a clear understanding of modern business practices. It will develop your analytical and critical-thinking skills, allowing you to solve complex commercial problems and identify and deliver successful business strategies. This will enable you to hit the ground running in graduate roles.

Career prospects
This course provides the opportunity to tailor your studies to match your interests or career goals, offering advanced understanding in finance, marketing, human resources, and entrepreneurship. It is designed to set you on the right career path, aligning with your specific professional ambitions.

How you will learn

In addition to learning key theories and concepts, you'll engage in practical activities to deepen your understanding of the subject area. These include a variety of hands-on activities, such as case studies, business simulations and skills workshops, where you can apply what you've learnt to solve commercial problems. We also utilise technology, including gamification and augmented reality, to enhance student engagement. This applied approach not only improves your understanding but also enhances your employability.

Our online learning platform supports your studies with all the necessary digital resources, including lecture slides, access to e-books and online journals, and video recordings of teaching sessions. Additionally, your lecturers will be available for one-to-one support to help you with any challenging topics.

In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will gain a competitive edge by honing your professional skills and preparing for success in a fast-paced global environment. You will tackle real-world challenges, dive into entrepreneurship and work on team-based business simulations.

At the start of your course, you will be allocated a personal tutor who can offer individual study advice and guidance. You will also benefit from access to the University Library's extensive collection of over 25,000 books and electronic journals.

Our postgraduate programmes use a block learning structure. Block teaching condenses traditional semester-long courses into focused, consecutive blocks of learning. The ethos is to give students more time to engage with their learning by studying one subject at a time, instead of several at once.

Student holding laptop in student study space

Gain the advantage

Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.

The Aston Global Advantage

What you will learn

The course equips you with a thorough understanding of modern business practices, enhancing your analytical and critical-thinking skills. This prepares you for complex problem-solving and strategy development in graduate roles or for entrepreneurship if you choose to start your own business.
You'll learn to interpret financial statements, devise marketing and pricing strategies and grasp innovation processes. Additionally, you will develop insights into strategic processes and techniques to boost business performance.

In the taught stage, you'll delve into topics like marketing and operations management, sharpening your skills in these areas. You'll also expand your knowledge in business sustainability and accounting, essential for understanding the contemporary business landscape. This stage hones vital transferable skills, setting you up for a dynamic career in management, with strengths in teamwork, communication and leadership.

In the dissertation phase, you will undertake a research project on a chosen management topic, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research with a clear consideration of ethics, theory and methods.

Piyushi Pawan MSc Business and Management

Bridging the gap

Piyushi transitioned from computer science to technology consulting, attributing her success to Aston University's comprehensive MSc Business and Management course.

Discover Piyushi's journey

Learn business, do business

Our classroom goes beyond traditional lectures, focusing instead on real-life projects and hands-on experiences.

Student experience

Course objectives

Develops local, national and international students’ appreciation of the value of adopting multi-disciplinary approaches to the solution of management and leadership problems.
Develops the ability to apply the principles of evidence-based management to real-world business situations.
Meets the needs of recent graduates and those already in employment who wish to acquire specialist skills, knowledge and experience in management to embark on, or progress successfully in, their chosen careers.
Provides a programme of study that meets the needs of candidates, enabling you to successfully engage in creating, facilitating and supporting enterprise and entrepreneurship.
Enables you to actively reflect upon and develop your own positions in relation to evolving perceptions on corporate responsibility, sustainability and ethics as evidenced by the UN’s SDGs.
Provides you with the opportunity to enhance your employability skills by equipping you with key professional skills and competencies required for success in matters of management in a global business context.

Modules

You will study:

Two 15 credit modules in terms 1,2 and 3 and each module is 5 weeks long. You only study one block module at a time.
Each term, you will engage in one of three core modules, focusing on foundational knowledge and skills, professional skills development, and research methods. These core modules span 11 weeks and run concurrently with shorter block modules.

Modules and programme outcomes

Taught stage modules

In the taught stage you will study the following core modules in Term 1:

Module Title	Credits
Strategic Management The module provides the necessary analytical tools required to effectively create viable business solutions for modern organisations. You will learn how to conduct external and internal analyses on organisations through the exploration of real-world case studies. Class discussions on the case studies will enable you to reflect and apply taught concepts to ensure that students are prepared for ethically conscious employment and enterprise development in the real world of business. Strategy is at the core of all businesses. Mastering strategy will provide the key tools needed to perform in any business environment.	15
Strategic workplace learning and development The module will to share the latest evidence-based knowledge with students regarding different aspects of learning and talent development in organisations. It aims to raise awareness of how different management functions can be enhanced through human resource development (HRD) initiatives and how HRD relates to business strategy and effectiveness. This will enable you to develop a good understanding of learning, training and development in different settings and contexts and you will then apply their learning to a case study organisation.	15
Principles of International Business This module provides a comprehensive exploration of key topics in international business and management, offering you both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. It introduces essential theories and practices in international business, with a focus on navigating the complexities of global markets. Key areas of study include international trade, foreign direct investment, multinational enterprises, the global business environment, and international business strategy. You will engage in active, hands-on research to tackle real-world challenges faced by firms in today’s highly competitive global marketplace, applying your accumulated knowledge and analytical skills to devise effective solutions and strategies for success.	15

In Term 2 you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
International Economic Environment This module introduces you to key economic factors that shape global business strategies. You will explore how these forces influence the decision-making of firms in the context of dynamic global markets. You will critically analyse real-world economic issues that affect global business operations. Through economic modelling, the use of case studies, and comparative economic analysis, they will develop skills as to how firms develop strategies to deal with the complex economic environment. This module is essential for understanding global market dynamics. It equips you with the analytical tools to navigate economic challenges, enhancing both their strategic thinking and employability.	15
International Marketing Management This module introduces you to the scope and role of marketing within national and international organisations and the dynamic business environment in which they operate. Many businesses today have expanded and are continuing to grow in the global arena in search of higher profits and market share. Their success largely depends on their ability to apply business concepts in foreign markets as well as responding and adapting to global challenges. Thus, marketing concepts and analytical frameworks which can be used in practice will be presented to you throughout the module.	15
The Aston Global Advantage The Aston Global Advantage is our professional development programme that runs throughout all MSc programmes at Aston Business School. Focusing on professional development and employability, this integrated module gives you the opportunity to identify, develop and apply the key transferrable skills you will gain throughout the year.	15

In Term 3 you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Leadership for Transformational Change This module explores the dynamic interplay between leadership, change management, and organisational culture. It delves into the complexities of leading organisations through transformational change, emphasising the role of leadership in shaping, sustaining, and evolving organisational culture. The module provides theoretical insights, practical tools, and real-world case studies to equip you with the skills necessary to lead effectively in environments characterised by uncertainty, diversity, and constant change. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and experiential learning activities, you will develop a deep understanding of how to foster a resilient and adaptive organisational culture in the face of ongoing change.	15
Marketing Management This module introduces you to the world of marketing. The module outlines the development of the marketing concept and its importance within a real-world context. You will work in small groups to develop and present marketing plans within an experiential situation using appropriate marketing theories, frameworks and tools. You will learn to conduct situational analyses, formulate suitable strategies and measure the results using appropriate metrics. You will develop, implement and reflect upon your marketing planning knowledge and skills in an authentic situation which will support your future employability or entrepreneurial ambitions.	15
Applied Research Methods and Skills This is an exciting opportunity for you to develop key problem solving and research skills which will allow you to follow your passion, use the strengths and interests developed during your degree, and creatively learn how ethically to explore this. This module equips managers and leaders of the future with the skills critically to evaluate research-based information. It covers various research methods and techniques, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.	15

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Dissertation stage modules

In the dissertation stage you will study the following core modules:

Module Title

Credits

Independent Project
The research project offers a unique opportunity for you to take the initiative and dive deep into a specific topic, fostering personal and academic growth. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in the taught portion of the programme, this module sharpens essential analytical and academic skills for lifelong learning in today's dynamic business landscape. By conducting independent empirical or theoretical research, you gain a deeper understanding of their chosen subject and contribute to the field. Additionally, this module serves as a stepping stone for those considering further research degrees.

45

Programme outcomes

On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:

Apply relevant theories, principles, frameworks and empirical works in a modern international managerial context
Adopt multi-disciplinary approaches to the solution of leadership and management issues and effectively apply a range of analytical approaches to practical and/ or complex problem-solving.
Apply the principles of evidence-based management by providing an assessment and/or evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of problem-solving approaches.
Demonstrate critical evaluation of research-based information in management studies.
Promote reflection and articulation of positions in relation to issues around corporate responsibility, sustainability and ethics as evidenced by the UN’s SGDs.
Acquire market-led specialist skills and knowledge in management for embarking on, or progressing successfully in, a chosen career
Critically evaluate and apply a diverse set of transferable skills essential for a successful career in management, contributing to enhanced employability.
Undertake independent research by formulating well-defined research questions, critically evaluating and applying appropriate research techniques, and drawing informed conclusions and recommendations.

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

One of the following:

2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent
Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information)

Subject specific requirements

Applicants must also provide evidence of Mathematics - C/4 or above at GCSE (or equivalent)

You will also need to provide:

A professional reference
- If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
- If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
A completed application form.

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

How to apply

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Pathway programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.

The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.

Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

Speak to our Admissions Team

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 09:30-16:30)

Read our guide to applying

Meet your programme director

Dr Mojtaba Sajadi
Programme Director, MSc Business and Management

If you have any questions about the course or modules you will be studying, you can get in touch via email and I will be happy to answer your queries.

Get in touch

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£14,000

International students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£25,500

The duration of this programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

Fees and funding

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore scholarships for UK students

Explore scholarships for international students

Assessment

We use a mix of assessment methods, including exams, coursework, presentations and group work. For our assessments, we use real or fictitious business scenarios. The practical assessments help you to develop the skills and competencies required for future job roles.

Career prospects

This course prepares you for a wide range of professional and management careers across business functions and sectors including accountancy, marketing, operations, HR and strategic management.

The transferable skills that our Business and Management programme provides mean our graduates are successful in finding employment in a wide range of roles such as:

•   Digital marketing consultant
•   Corporate client manager
•   Senior quality control analyst
•   Strategic advisor
•   Regional benefits and value manager
•   Customer service manager
•   Business development executive
•   Transportation manager

Our graduates have gone on to work at companies such as: the Cabinet Office, Citizens UK, Deutsche Bank, HelloFresh, Highways England, NHS, Shell, Sterling Bank Plc and British American Tobacco.

Supported for success

Brenda Guimaraes chose to study both her undergraduate and postgraduate degree at Aston University, with ambitions to start her own business.

Discover Brenda's journey

Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.

Hear from our graduates

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently asked questions

Why study Business and Management at Aston University?

At Aston University, the Business and Management programme immerses you in key business areas, enhancing your leadership and management skills for diverse roles in any sector. Innovative teaching methods, including simulations and case studies, deepen your understanding. You'll develop critical analytical skills, learn effective business strategies, and improve vital soft skills, making you a sought-after graduate in the job market.

What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?

Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed module aims to develop professional and personal transferrable skills relevant to any workplace and create a bridge between the degree and the world of work.

The Aston Global Advantage

Why should I study my postgraduate degree at Aston University?

There are lots of benefits of studying a postgraduate degree at Aston University.

Watch this video from MBA student, Monique, who talks about just a few of them:

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham

What will my timetable look like?

We understand how important it is to know your timetable in advance for planning around work, childcare, or other responsibilities. Here's some basic guidance on what to expect regarding your student timetable.

Full-time programmes

As a rough estimate, full-time postgraduate students in the College of Business and Social Sciences should expect to spend about 12-15 hours per week in lectures and on-campus seminars. This is in addition to independent study, and there may be additional guided learning activities during certain weeks. The exact distribution of these hours will vary depending on your course and module choices.

Part-time programmes

Part-time students will have fewer weekly on-campus hours compared to full-time students. This reduction is proportional to the number of modules you're enrolled in.

Timetable availability

Complete timetables are usually released shortly before the start of your programme. This timing is necessary to ensure that we accommodate all course requirements and that rooms are allocated based on the number of students likely to enrol on each programme. We aim to provide these timetables as early as possible, to assist you in your planning.

As your induction week approaches, you will be sent more information about your timetable via email, and you will be able to access your timetable by logging into MyAstonPortal. For any further queries or information regarding your timetable, you can reach out to your programme director or the Student Support team.

Online/distance learning programmes

The above information also applies to students enrolled in online/distance learning programmes. Please note that both full-time and part-time distance learning students are still required to attend scheduled synchronous learning sessions.

MyAstonPortal

What can I get involved in at Aston Business School?

At Aston Business School, you will dive into a dynamic blend of innovative learning and hands-on experiences. With our acclaimed triple-crown accreditation, we offer you academic excellence and a track record of producing successful graduates.

Located in Birmingham, the UK's vibrant second city, Aston Business School provides you with a culturally rich environment and superb connectivity. You will benefit from real-world business engagements, international study opportunities and entrepreneur support programmes like BSEEN and Pitchfest.

You can also engage in practical consultancy at the Aston Business Clinic and collaborate with global peers in events such as the Maastricht Case Competition or the Universities Business Challenge. Our partnership with The Prince’s Trust, alongside a range of student clubs including TEDx and Enactus further enriches your learning experience.

Discover more