International Business and Finance (MSc)
Introduction
In an increasingly interconnected global economy, understanding international business and finance is more important than ever. This programme is designed for individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of global markets, equipping them with both analytical techniques and practical skills.
By combining in-depth knowledge of management, international business, and finance-related fields, the programme prepares students to excel in a dynamic and competitive international business environment.
The International Business and Finance MSc offers a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between global management and finance, equipping you with essential financial expertise and its practical applications. This programme combines in-depth financial knowledge with international business training, covering international business theory and practice, incorporating the latest advancement in academic scholarly understanding, and addressing the emerging real-world phenomena.
You’ll develop a strong understanding of economic fluctuations and gain the skills to interpret and utilize financial data effectively in real-world scenarios. In addition, you will learn to design effective risk management strategies and adapt to diverse market conditions. You will develop the research, analysis, presentation, and computer skills which are highly valued by employers.
Tailor your MSc International Business and Finance to your career goals by choosing from three strategic pathways, each designed to equip future business leaders with the skills and insights needed to drive impact in today's global economy:
- IBF Classic
- IBF with Sustainability
- IBF with AI and Financial Technology
The Business School is home to the Africa-Asia Centre for Sustainability, a research hub dedicated to addressing critical sustainability challenges. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the centre integrates expertise from multiple fields to develop new insights and innovative solutions for pressing global issues in the African and Asian regions.
Available Programmes of Study
- MSc
-
International Business and Finance
- Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- January
- Location
- Aberdeen
- Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location
Programme Fees
- UK
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £15,700
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (University of Aberdeen Graduates *)
- £7,000
-
University of Aberdeen graduates are eligible for the Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship, reducing tuition fees to £7,000 - matching the current SAAS tuition loan - See full terms and conditions
- EU / International students
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £26,250
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *)
- £18,250
-
The above fee includes the £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship provided to self-funded international students. Full terms and conditions apply.
Semester 1
Semester 1: Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)
-
This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- The Leadership Challenge (BU501H)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides an opportunity to explore and develop an understanding of your own leadership behaviour. Through workshops, group activities and discussions we investigate how personality, past experience, current situations and culture shape the way each of us behave in a leadership role. Using this information as a starting point we then explore how different leadership theories and approaches can be used as frameworks for developing a deeper understanding of leadership behaviour. You will also have an opportunity to try out a range of practical tools and techniques to assist you in the development of your own approach to leadership.
- Accounting and Finance for Managers (BU5026)
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15 Credit Points
The fact that money (and understanding money) really matters in business and all managers need to understand issues like cashflow and profit might depress you, but it is true. Financial viability of customers? Deciding on the likely financial viability of a project? Reporting to shareholders about performance? Does the word “sustainable” appear in a finance dictionary? All questions we will try and address.
- International Finance for Business (BU502C)
-
15 Credit Points
The trend towards financial globalisation in recent years has impacted on all financial decisions, which has necessitated the understanding of international financial markets, especially for multinational businesses. This course analyses a wide range of issues in international finance and their practical applications. This course also examines the challenges and problems faced by firms in the global marketplace in doing international business during the next decade from the international finance perspective.
Semester 1: Optional Courses
Plus 15 credits from the following, depending on your chosen specialism:
IBF Classic
- BU5072: Negotiation and Cross-Cultural Management (15 credits)
Sustainability
- BU505J: Investment and Real Options Analysis for Energy (15 credits) or
- BU507A: Environmental Economics (15 credits)
AI & Financial Technology
- CS5076: Introduction to Programming (15 credits) or
- CS5097: Database Systems and Big Data (15 credits)
- Negotiation and Cross - Cultural Management (BU5072)
-
15 Credit Points
Business cannot be conducted without some form of communication between the participants involved. This course examines a wide variety of different types of interpersonal communication in different types of business contexts and, by so doing, provides students with a detailed and practical overview of this vitally important subject area.
- Investment and Real Options Analysis for Energy (BU505J)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides a comprehensive journey into the intricacies of financial decision-making. By blending theory with practical applications, you will develop the skills and insights needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the energy industry. This course blends theory and hands-on Excel modelling to analyse investment choices in the energy sector. Empower your employability by developing practical skills and in depth understanding on financial choices under risk and uncertainty.
- Environmental Economics (BU507A)
-
15 Credit Points
This course explores the intricate relationship between the economy and the environment, focusing on how economic activities impact the environment, and how environmental policies can be developed to address environmental issues. Students will learn the fundamental principles of economics as they apply to environmental issues, integrating both theoretical concepts and practical applications to address contemporary environmental challenges.
- Introduction to Programming (CS5076)
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15 Credit Points
Students will be exposed to the basic principles of computer programming, e.g. fundamental programming techniques, concepts, algorithms, data structures, and object orientated programming. The course contains lectures where the principles are systematically developed. As the course does not presuppose knowledge of these principles, we start from basic intuitions so that students know the basics of programming as the foundation for their future study.
- Database Systems and Big Data (CS5097)
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15 Credit Points
This course will be of interest to anyone who wishes to learn to design and query databases. The course aims to teach the material using case studies from real-world applications. You will develop a critical understanding of the principal theories, principles and concepts, such as modelling techniques used in the design, administration and security of database systems. You will also learn core theoretical concepts such as relational algebra, file organisation and indexing. At the end of this course you will be able to design and build Web and cloud-based databases and have a critical understanding of how database-driven applications operate.
Semester 2
Semester 2: Compulsory Courses
- Empirical Methods in Finance Research (BU5565)
-
15 Credit Points
This course aims to provide students with the quantitative skills to undertake extended investigation of financial data and assist in financial decision making. It introduces various standard time series techniques such as univariate and multivariate time series modelling, unit root tests, and volatility modelling. Particularly emphasis is on intuitive discussions of the methods, and practical examples and applications are also included.
- Portfolio Analysis (BU5526)
-
15 Credit Points
This course examines theories and issues relevant to portfolio analysis. Themes include: risk and return; investment motives; the application of modern portfolio theory (including the Capital Asset Pricing Model); information and market efficiency; portfolio analysis and asset pricing; bonds and equities; real estate and derivative markets.
- Financial Markets and Regulation (BU552H)
-
15 Credit Points
This course provides students with an understanding of the financial system by introducing students to the reasons for, and nature of, financial markets and financial institutions, before moving on to explore the need and importance of regulation, investigate the causes and consequences of the recent 2008 Global Financial Crisis, and discuss future reform.
Semester 2: Optional Courses
Plus 15 credits from the following, depending on your chosen specialism:
IBF Classic
- BU552G: Issues in Corporate Governance and Ethics (15 credits)
Sustainability
- BU557B: Sustainable Development (15 credits) or
- BU557D: Climate Change Economics and Carbon Finance (15 credits)
AI & Financial Technology
- BU553C: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Forecasting (15 credits) or
- BU551X: Financial Crime and Cybersecurity (15 credits)
- Issues in Corporate Governance and Ethics (BU552G)
-
15 Credit Points
Corporate governance has become one of the most significant challenges for organisations and for the managers who work within them. The reasons for this include high-profile corporate scandals, conflict of interests, manipulations of financial statements, ethical dilemmas, crises like the global financial crisis credit crunch or even pandemic, and a growing need to demonstrate corporate accountability, transparency and ethical practices. The “Issues in Corporate Governance and Ethics” course will deepen students understanding and stimulate critical thinking in these areas. Students will study and critique theory and practices of corporate governance models and ethics guidelines as well as its relation to boards, professional bodies (accounting/audit firms), investors and wider stakeholder groups.
- Sustainable Development (BU557B)
-
15 Credit Points
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, challenges, and opportunities associated with achieving sustainability and development objectives. Students will develop an understanding of urbanization and rural issues in the context of sustainable development, explore the challenges faced by global food systems and biodiversity, analyse the link between pollution, income, and health, and apply environmental concepts to understand just policy making, ensuring equitable access to natural resources and clean environment.
- Climate Change Economics and Carbon Finance (BU557D)
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15 Credit Points
Climate change presents one of the most formidable global challenges. This course offers an extensive introduction to the economics of climate change and relevant policy responses which shape societies’ efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change. It explores how the toolkit from economics and finance can be utilised to assess and evaluate carbon management strategies in the realm of climate policy, both from a national and international perspective.
- Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Forecasting (BU553C)
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15 Credit Points
This course will introduce machine learning, artificial intelligence and forecasting with applications in finance and management.
The course will explore recent trends in FINTECH, which are based on data analytics and recent advances in machine learning. The course will provide an introduction to Python, which has become the dominant general-purpose programming language in data analytics and machine learning. To be clear, students are not expected to have any prior knowledge of Python or any other programming language.
- Financial Crime and Cyber Security (BU551X)
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15 Credit Points
While violent crime has exhibited a considerable decline in most developed countries, financial crime and cyber-crime have flourished.
This course provides an overview of financial crime and major cyber security risks. To evaluate risk and develop preventive methods, it is important to learn how cyber-criminals work.
This course follows strict ethical hacking guidelines.
We introduce the main tools used by cyber-criminals including the dark web, TOR hidden services, private operating systems, cryptocurrencies, encryption, scanning, enumeration, and penetration testing.
Students are required to take CS5076 Introduction to Programming in the first sub-session; hence, the course expects a basic level of programming skills in Python.
Semester 3
Semester 3: Compulsory Courses
- Master's Dissertation in Accountancy & Finance (BU5903)
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60 Credit Points
The capstone of your programme. A significant individual piece of work showing your ability to think, research, organise and analyse. You will work with a member of faculty to develop a proposal that you will then turn into 10,000 words of reality!
Programme Fees
- UK
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £15,700
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (University of Aberdeen Graduates *)
- £7,000
-
University of Aberdeen graduates are eligible for the Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship, reducing tuition fees to £7,000 - matching the current SAAS tuition loan - See full terms and conditions
- EU / International students
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £26,250
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *)
- £18,250
-
The above fee includes the £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship provided to self-funded international students. Full terms and conditions apply.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page. In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.
Funding Opportunities
Alumni Discount Scheme - we are pleased to offer a 20% discount for postgraduate tuition fees to all alumni who have an undergraduate degree from University of Aberdeen.
Please note that the Aberdeen Alumni Discount cannot be claimed in conjunction with any other scholarship award.
Scholarships
All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
You’ll attend a variety of stimulating lectures, seminars and tutorials, with your skills and competency assessed by a mix of presentations, traditional exams, essays and projects.
Although you don’t need to have a background in this sector, it’s an advantage if you’re already confident and competent with numbers. This programme will take these strengths and enable you to embed them in a financial context.
Learning Methods
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Peer Learning
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
Why Study International Business and Finance?
- The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, less than 300 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
- The University of Aberdeen was ranked 18th in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2026.
- We are ranked 6th in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Guardian University Guide 2026) and 6th in the UK for Positive Responses in Business Studies Studies (National Student Survey 2026).
- This programme has a distinctive focus on bridging the two integral components of the global economic landscape: International Business and Finance. International business involves economic activities that cross national borders, including trade and the operations of multinational corporations, which is facilitated by cross border investment and financial transactions.
- Choose from three study pathways—IBF Classic, IBF with Sustainability, or IBF with AI and Financial Technology— to align your studies with your career goals and the demands of a rapidly evolving global business landscape.
- We invite external speakers from industry to enhance employability. These speakers bring real-world insights, experiences, and expertise, providing practical knowledge, inspiration, networking opportunity, and a deeper understanding of industry trends.
- This programme integrates a research-led approach with a practical and professional focus, making it highly appealing for those seeking to develop their knowledge and analytical skills not only in management domain but also in finance-relevant fields.
- Access world-leading facilities such as our Bloomberg Terminal. This in-house stock exchange provides the opportunity to work with a real trading platform used by more than 300,000 banks, government agencies, and corporations around the world, and develop the practical and analytical financial skills in high demand from employers.
- In a recent Harvard Business Report, 76% of respondents identified skills such as communication, conflict management, and empathy as essential skills for the modern workforce. All of our postgraduate Business students develop these soft skills, valued by employers across sectors, with our Soft Skills Development Programme.
- With a university community of over 130 nationalities, students are immersed in an environment that enables international discourse and truly global exchanges, generating deep insights that spark innovative change.
Interested in this programme?
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Our minimum entry requirement for this programme is an undergraduate degree at UK Honours level (or a degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth).
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
Careers
This degree is designed for both non-finance graduates eager to enter the lucrative world of finance and finance graduates looking to enhance their marketability with a broad understanding of international business.
The programme meets the needs of students aspiring to become finance specialists, such as those pursuing careers in banking, while also catering to those seeking a broader management role to expand their career opportunities in the global job market. Graduates are well-equipped for diverse paths in the global marketplace, a research career, or continued studies at PhD level.
Career Opportunities
- Account Manager
- Business Consultant
- Civil Servant
- Data Analyst
- Financial Manager
- International Banker
- Investment Advisor
- Marketing Officer
- Supply Chain Management
Industry Links
Experience three Professional Development Weeks annually, providing you with valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and career prospects. Additionally, participate in our Careers Fair, where you can interact with potential employers, explore diverse career paths, and make connections that can shape your professional journey.
Accreditation
The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, less than 300 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
What our Alumni Say
Our Experts
You will be taught by and have access to a number of experts, many of whom are internationally renowned within their respective fields. These will include members of the Africa-Asia Centre for Sustainability.
For more details on academic experts and those who will be teaching within your programme discipline please visit the People section of the Business School website.
- Programme Leader
- Yaodong Liu
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Features
The University of Aberdeen, established in 1495, is Scotland’s third oldest and the UK’s fifth oldest University. The university’s ancient campus reflects its long-standing academic tradition, with historic buildings such as King's College, which dates back to the 15th century. This blend of ancient architecture and modern facilities creates a unique atmosphere where students can experience the best of both tradition and innovation.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Business School
University of Aberdeen
MacRobert Building
King Street
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX