University of Brighton

What you'll study

The programme integrates core international business topics with applied data-analytic techniques and a substantial advanced-practice element (work-placement, consultancy or extended project). Study begins with preparatory modules to consolidate academic skills and foundational business concepts for students without a business undergraduate, followed by taught modules that cover strategic, organisational and quantitative areas. Typical topics include:

• International Business Environment and Strategy – frameworks for analysing global markets, cross-border strategy and managing multinational operations.
• Data Analytics for Business – practical data preparation, exploratory analysis and the use of statistical methods to support business decisions.
• Business Intelligence and Visualisation – building dashboards, storytelling with data and communicating insights to stakeholders.
• Quantitative Methods and Econometrics – applied regression, forecasting and models commonly used in business research and planning.
• Digital and Marketing Analytics – use of customer and digital datasets to inform marketing, sales and customer relationship strategies.
• Research Methods and Consultancy Skills – preparing students for independent projects and client-facing work, including ethics, project design and report writing.
• Advanced Practice (Placement / Consultancy / Extended Project) – a period working with an employer or on a live consultancy brief, or an extended industry-focused project, enabling you to apply learning in a professional context.
• MSc Major Project or Dissertation – an applied or research-led project drawing together international business and analytic techniques.

Teaching methods combine lectures, practical computer labs (with industry-standard analytics and visualisation tools), seminars and supervised project work. Assessment is typically by a mix of group consultancy reports, individual assignments, practical data tasks, presentations and a major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree (or recognised international equivalent). For the extended route, the programme welcomes applicants from non-business or non-quantitative backgrounds and may require completion of preparatory modules before progressing to the full MSc. Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application.

Typical academic criteria include a UK 2:2 or above in any subject for the extended pathway, or a 2:2/2:1 in business, economics, computing, mathematics or a related discipline for direct entry. International applicants should hold an equivalent qualification.

English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English; typical requirements reflect recognised test qualifications. Admissions also consider personal statements, references and any relevant work experience.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles that combine commercial understanding with analytical capability. Common career paths include business analyst, data analyst, market intelligence analyst, strategy or management consultant, operations and supply-chain analyst, digital marketing analyst and business development roles in multinational firms, consultancies, public sector organisations and NGOs.

The advanced-practice component enhances employability by providing demonstrable workplace experience, professional networks and a portfolio of applied work. Some graduates also progress to further research degrees (MPhil/PhD) or professional qualifications in data science, finance or management.

Why study at University of Brighton

Brighton Business School places strong emphasis on applied learning and industry engagement, combining academic rigour with practical skills development. The university offers access to specialist computing and data facilities, project supervision with industry-aware staff, and a careers service that supports placement sourcing and employer engagement.

Studying in Brighton provides good links to regional businesses, start-ups and creative industries as well as transport connections to London and the wider South East, facilitating placement and networking opportunities. The supportive learning environment is designed to help students from diverse academic backgrounds develop the technical and professional competencies sought by employers in international business and analytics.