Course summary

Whether you’re looking to launch a business, build partnerships, develop new ideas or invest in new ventures, this innovative MSc explores ways to harness your flair for business and take it to the next level. This one-year full-time course comprises core modules on strategy, organisational behaviour, introduction to entrepreneurship, new venture creation, and thinking entrepreneurially. You can tailor the course to your own interests through a choice of optional modules and complete a dissertation or a business project. There is a strong practical element to the course and you will hear from guest speakers such as consultants, social marketers and analysts who have a wide experience of the topics covered in the modules you will study. You will also be able to test your own entrepreneurial skills in the Blueprint Startup Challenge. Opportunities for international learning are embedded into the course as they encourage you to think globally when it comes to applying your entrepreneurial skills. They comprise an international study tour, a summer school and the option to complete your dissertation abroad. The Business School is one of an elite group of UK institutions that has been accredited by all three major business accreditation bodies, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Association of MBAs and the European Quality Improvement System. It offers a vibrant, supportive and stimulating learning experience, delivered by academic staff who are experts in their field. Core modules: Strategy seeks to explain the success of a business or the lack of it by studying its corporate plan of action in relation to both the external commercial environment and also the balance internally between the plan and its resources and capabilities. Organisational Behaviour covers key issues relating to the behaviour of individuals in an organisation and examines topics such as personal and mental ability, the management of attitudes and work motivation, decision-making, corporate and social responsibility, and addressing justice and equality within organisations. Introduction to Entrepreneurship provides an overview of the field of entrepreneurship, including the role it plays in modern economies and societies. You will understand the different tools and approaches to the concept of entrepreneurship as applied in various contexts. Thinking Entrepreneurially will cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset adaptable to both startups and established organisations. This module enhances your ability to confidently navigate the ever-changing business landscape, with entrepreneurship as the foundation. Throughout the course, a strong emphasis is placed on adapting, persisting, and learning from entrepreneurial challenges. New Venture Creation provides you with an overall understanding of the process of creating a new business venture as well as giving you an insight into what is required to make it happen and how to meet the challenges of such ventures. You will also learn how best to manage customer and supplier relationships, finances, and operational issues in an ethical and responsible manner. Research Methods and Dissertation (General Management or International or Business Project route) provides the necessary training to undertake advanced-level research. You will investigate a relevant topic, and, using material from core and optional modules, complete a dissertation or business project. Dissertation can be undertaken here at Durham or abroad at a partner university. You have the option to choose between a traditional dissertation format or a business project.