Our Management MSc consists of both core modules and optional modules. The information below outlines a full time study schedule, starting in September.

The duration of study will depend on the options chosen. For example,

• 1 year full time
• Up to 24 months with the Entrepreneurship Project or Placement Project
• 2 years part time
• Up to 24 - 36 months depending on project/pathway

Each core module on the MSc is worth 15 credits. You must complete 180 credits in order to qualify for the MSc award. 

Semester 1

Core modules - Each module is 15 credit weighted.

• Leadership
• International Operations and Supply

Optional modules - Each module is 15 credit weighted. Modules must be chosen to bring the number of credits taken in Semester 1 to 60 credits in total: 

• International Business Context
• Accounting for Decision Making
• Understanding Consumer Behaviour
• Marketing Management in the Digital Age
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Sustainable Development
• Digital Marketing Tools and Channels

Depending on availability, you can also choose to study a modern language as your optional module, from absolute beginners to advanced level in British Sign Language, Mandarin Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish or Russian. Those for whom English is a second language may also choose Advanced Business English.

Semester 2

Core modules - Each module is 15 credit weighted.

• Contemporary Challenges in Global Business
• Creativity and Personal Development
• Research Methods*

*Research Methods is taken in Semesters 2-3.

Optional modules - Each module is 15 credit weighted. Modules must be chosen to bring the number of credits taken in Semester 2 to 60 credits in total: 

• Entrepreneurship
• Strategic Human Resource Management
• International Human Resource Management
• Strategy and Information Management
• Branding
• Marketing Management in the Digital Age
• Developing an Investable Business Plan
• Integrated Digital Marketing

Depending on availability, you can also choose to study a modern language as your optional module, from absolute beginners to advanced level in British Sign Language, Mandarin Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish or Russian. Those for whom English is a second language may also choose Advanced Business English.

Semester 3

Core module -  The following module is 15 credit weighted.

• Research methods*

*Research Methods is taken in Semesters 2-3.

Optional modules - You will choose one of the following options, each worth 45 credits. More information can be found below.

• Dissertation
• Consultancy Project
• Entrepreneurship Project
• Placement Project

The dissertation is a formal written academic project of between 15,000 and 20,000 words, making it ideal preparation for future academic research at MPhil or PhD level or for the report-writing and scrutiny expected of senior management professionals. Taking inspiration from your own interests, and with support throughout from a supervisor with relevant expertise, you’ll choose a topic to research in management. As an example, previous students have considered how employee performance is influenced by internationalised organisational culture for female NHS workers, how the global 'war on drugs' has affected UK drug policy and the impact of Brexit on the internalisation of SMEs in the UK.

From June to September, you will spend eight to 12 weeks undertaking a management research project on behalf of an organisation (chosen by Keele Business School). You’ll put into practice what you’ve learned, developing and applying your skills to solve a business problem, issue or focus on a specific project. As part of the eventual assessment, you’ll present your findings to the host organisation, exactly as you would do within the workplace. As an example, one previous management student considered organisational change and employee resistance at a local physiotherapy practice, while another conducted a study to find customer segments, value propositions, delivery channels and customer relationships for a new business venture in UK print industry. Another student helped a not-for-profit community interest company develop its strategy to improve health and social care services in Staffordshire. 

Please note, participation in the Consultancy Project is only available after a comprehensive selection process. 

An excellent opportunity if you have an idea for a new business venture, this module will provide you with the time, space and expertise to develop it. For between eight weeks to 12 months, you’ll be given the option of a base within the University’s incubator and have access to workshops and guidance from a network of entrepreneurs and business advisers. During this time, you’ll complete a portfolio of evidence on your idea and present this to an external stakeholder. Places are limited, and you will be required to undertake an interview prior to acceptance on this module.

Please note: The Entrepreneurship pathway is available to UK Students only.

In an increasingly competitive job market, employers are looking to recruit employees who have high-level knowledge, skills and workplace experience. With support from the Faculty Placement Officer, you will gain first-hand professional experience on a suitable, paid work placement for between eight weeks to 12 months. During your placement, you will be required to complete an extended project on behalf of the organisation. As part of the eventual assessment, you’ll present your findings to the host organisation, exactly as you would do within the workplace. Your placement can be based anywhere in the UK giving you the opportunity to work with local, national and international organisations.

Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be able to add in a work placement depending upon the programme. The ability to add a work placement is dependent upon the UK Immigration rules at the time of the request. It may be that for some programmes students will not have the option to request a placement period to be added to their programme before they arrive in the UK and would need to apply for a new visa. There is no guarantee that a placement will be provided and that students who have a visa are subject to a number of restrictions on the type of work, including placements they can undertake.