University of Agder, South Norway

Master in Management and Business Development

Master’s in Management and Business Development equips you with essential competencies to navigate in the ever-changing global markets.

About the programme

The Master’s programme in Management and Business Development provides you with a comprehensive and relevant knowledge and skills in developing and managing businesses. It does so through general, overarching courses complemented by three specialisations - International Business, Strategic Marketing, and Innovation and Transformation with a special focus on business responsibility and sustainability. The three specialisations in this programme are designed for enabling the development of unique expertise which helps future managers navigate in the complex and dynamic environment of the global arena.

By studying with us, you will receive a high-quality education coupled with experience development opportunities through The UiA School of Business and Law’s AACSB international accreditation and its international network of universities and businesses.

What will you learn?

Upon successful completion of the Master’s programme in Management and Business Development, you will have gained cutting-edge skills in business management and development, which build on critical thinking regarding the complexities of today's global markets. Through a comprehensive curriculum that integrates advanced theories and practical applications in marketing, international business, innovation and transformation, you will develop the strategic mindset necessary to innovate and create value in diverse business environments in a responsible and sustainable way.

Whether aiming to launch new ventures or lead established companies, graduates will be prepared to make impactful contributions to the ever-evolving world of business.

Career prospects

In todays’ business environment, desired employees are adaptable and self-managed while also possessing the ability to function well as a team member. The Master’s programme in Management and Business Development provides you with an optimal set of knowledge, competencies and skills on both the general and the specialisation levels, that are highly sought after in workplaces. These competencies and skills are relevant for a wide range of organisations and companies including private companies, public organisations, and nonprofit and voluntary organisations.

With a master’s degree in Management and Business Development, you can work in:

  • Large national and international companies and corporations: This includes companies operating in various sectors such as finance, technology, manufacturing, and retail. These organisations often offer leadership positions and career development opportunities.
  • Consulting firms and advisory services: Graduates can find exciting opportunities in the consulting industry, where they can work on solving complex challenges for various organisations. This can include strategic consulting, business development, and the implementation of new processes.
  • Entrepreneurship and startups: Many graduates may be interested in starting their own business or working in a startup environment, where they can contribute to developing and scaling new ideas and concepts. This provides the opportunity to take initiatives and shape the future of a new company.
  • Public and non-profit organisations: Graduates can seek positions in the public sector, including government and municipal agencies, where they can use their knowledge in management and business development to contribute to societal development and public services. Non-profit organisations also offer opportunities to work towards social and community goals. • International organisations and chambers of commerce: Graduates can seek positions in international organisations such as the UN, the World Bank, or the EU, where they can work on global issues and collaborate with different countries. Chambers of commerce and international trade organisations also offer opportunities to work with international trade and relations.
  • Academic and research institutions: Some graduates may be interested in pursuing an academic career or conducting research in management and business development. They can seek positions as researchers, lecturers, or administrators at universities and research institutions.

Entry requirements

General admission requirement is completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent education with a scope of minimum three years’ duration (180 ECTS credits).

Academic basis:

Either a major subject of minimum 80 ECTS credits, of which a minimum of 20 credits at level 2 / additional level, or an integrated programme of at least two years duration within business administration, marketing, management, relevant social sciences or equivalent.

A minimum of 7.5 ECTS credits in social science methodology must be included in the academic basis. A weighted average grade of C or better is required.

Admission takes place in accordance with regulations on admission to study programmes and courses at the University of Agder.

  • Recommended previous knowledge

A thorough knowledge of English is highly recommended because the language of instruction is English in all compulsory courses in the program as well as in several electives.

Level
Master
Duration
2 years | 120 ECT

Entry requirements

General admission requirement is completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent education with a scope of minimum three years’ duration (180 ECTS credits).

Academic basis:

Either a major subject of minimum 80 ECTS credits, of which a minimum of 20 credits at level 2 / additional level, or an integrated programme of at least two years duration within business administration, marketing, management, relevant social sciences or equivalent.

A minimum of 7.5 ECTS credits in social science methodology must be included in the academic basis. A weighted average grade of C or better is required.

Admission takes place in accordance with regulations on admission to study programmes and courses at the University of Agder.

  • Recommended previous knowledge

A thorough knowledge of English is highly recommended because the language of instruction is English in all compulsory courses in the program as well as in several electives.