Course description
The trend towards globalisation and inter-nationalisation, together with the nature of competition, means that an increasing number of firms need to deal with business issues in an international context. This is essential for multi-national and global enterprises, but is also of growing importance for others keen to understand globalisation threats and opportunities.
These developments create demand for those educated to Masters level with the knowledge and skills to enable them to operate in, and understand, the international marketplace. Here, the requirements are a thorough grounding in the theory and practice of international business and a high level of expertise in the related disciplines of economics, management, finance and marketing.
This programme is designed to provide graduates, whose first degree is in a related area (and will have included some economics content), with a rigorous education in international and global business theory and practice. The course deals with complex issues associated with globalisation and operating in an international context to ensure students develop a sophisticated understanding of international business.
The teaching and learning methods are student-centered. This means that the learning experience is enhanced by the use of techniques such as role-play, case material and group work, giving students maximum opportunity to sharpen their analytical, communication and presentation skills.
Graduates of the MSc International Business Economics will be able to:
• promote a critical awareness of the forces at work shaping the global economy and its impact on individual countries, business organisations and people
• generate a well-rounded view of the international economic and political pressures on business and the processes through which business adapts to those pressures in the specific areas of management, marketing and finance
• raise awareness of the international context in which the Scottish economy and businesses based in Scotland must compete
• provide knowledge of research techniques and methodology
• provide the opportunity to engage in detailed research in the field of international business and economic development
• develop skills in critical reasoning and communication in preparation for employment at a responsible level in the private or public sector
Globalisation and its impact on the economy and society are reported by the media, especially the business press, on a daily basis. The rationale behind this programme of study and research is to create an opportunity for students to develop a deep and sophisticated understanding of those powerful ‘globalising’ processes that shape our economy, our business and our lives.
Course Contents
The award of MSc International Business Economics requires successful completion of six taught modules (five core and one option) and a dissertation. Those wishing to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma require passes in five core and one option module.
Students are encouraged to commence dissertation work towards the end of the first trimester, although most of this work is generally undertaken during the summer term (July and August). The core modules represent the essential skills and knowledge required to understand and be able to operate in an international business context. Core topics include:
• Economics of Globalisation
• Trade and Exchange Rates
• Money and Finance in Developing Countries
• Financial Services Sector
• International and Global Marketing
Students will also select one from the following optional topics:
• Modelling the Supply Chain
• International Banking
MSc
Students will also complete an MSc dissertation in international business economics.
