Pre-Master’s in Business
at University of Dundee
In this course, you will be provided with specialist support from experienced tutors and an academically challenging environment in which to develop your language, university study and subject-specific knowledge related to your intended degree choices in the field of business.
Course Overview
The Pre-Master’s programme is designed for international students who are not eligible for direct entry to a postgraduate degree at the University of Dundee. This may be due to your undergraduate grades, your qualifications not being equivalent to a UK degree, or if you want to strengthen your academic study and English language skills before starting a Master’s course.
You can study the Pre-Master’s over one or two terms, depending on your academic qualifications and English language level. This flexible, fast-track pathway helps you build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to progress successfully to your chosen Master’s degree. Please check the entry requirements to find the most suitable route for you.
International College Dundee
International College Dundee (ICD) is a dedicated college for international students to start their studies. We offer integrated and standalone pathway programmes which develop your academic and English language skills.
Our international college is part of the university campus so you will have access to all the same university spaces, facilities and community so you will feel like you are part of the university from the day you start.
- Located on the main university campus
- Small classes offering a high-quality academic experience
- Supportive college staff who will help you settle into life as a student at the University of Dundee
- University student status from day one with access to sports, societies, campus facilities and the university student services.
Course modules
This module builds on the existing English language skills of international students to prepare them for master’s-level study at the University of Dundee. It aims to raise English proficiency from IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 or above, while increasing confidence in academic communication. The module supports successful engagement with level 11 study through the development of advanced skills in critical thinking, evaluation, creative engagement with academic materials and independent learning. Module Code: IC50001
This module further develops the English language skills of international students in preparation for master’s-level study at the University of Dundee. It aims to raise English proficiency from IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 or above and to build confidence in academic communication within the Business School and CEPMLP. The module strengthens advanced skills in critical thinking, evaluation and problem-solving, and supports the development of self-directed and autonomous learning. Module Code: IC50002
This module consolidates key academic skills needed for master’s-level study. It introduces essential skills for students in their first term and allows deeper skills development for those continuing into a second term. The module develops critical use of online sources, reflective learning, and effective group working and team-building skills. Module Code: IC50015
This module introduces social research methods relevant to professional practice in health, education and social science disciplines. It familiarises students with standard research terminology and explores qualitative, quantitative and evidence-based approaches to research. The module provides a broad foundation in research design, data collection and analysis, including surveys, interviews, case studies, mixed methods and evidence-based practice. Module Code: IC50011
This module develops communication and interpersonal skills relevant to postgraduate study and professional practice in an international context. It explores common barriers to effective communication and strategies to overcome them, using scenarios and case studies to build the skills needed to work confidently with diverse groups in academic and professional settings. Module Code: IC40011
This module develops students’ English language proficiency and their ability to communicate effectively in technical and professional contexts. It strengthens digital literacy through the use of IT tools, critical evaluation of information and appropriate use of AI technologies, and enhances collaborative and interpersonal skills for working in diverse teams across face-to-face, remote and hybrid settings. The module also supports understanding of assessment literacy and cross-cultural communication, enabling students to use feedback effectively and communicate confidently in academic and professional environments. Module Code: IC40012
This module introduces research methods used in engineering and life sciences, including both quantitative and qualitative approaches. It explores data collection and analysis techniques and prepares students to undertake a research project within a scientific field of interest. Module Code: IC40005
The module aims to provide an intuitive grasp of the theoretical concepts and basic skills required to estimate and interpret statistics. The module introduces students to basic methods of empirical enquiry and provides a solid foundation in statistical inference, enabling the student to become a competent producer of basic statistical research. It is also designed for students to appreciate the advantages and limitations of quantitative techniques. Module Code: IC50005
This module examines how different regional, social and political contexts shape the understanding and practice of management, human resources and marketing. It explores current international issues affecting contemporary businesses, the role of business within society, and alternative economic and social systems around the world. The module also considers how businesses respond to cultural differences, ethical challenges, sustainability concerns and technological change. Module Code: IC40002
This module develops an understanding of key activities in business management, with a focus on core functions such as marketing, sales and human resource management. It explores the development of management theories over time and their application in contemporary and global contexts, including different styles of management and leadership. The module provides a strong foundation for progression to later stages of business management–related degree programmes. Module Code: IC40003
This module provides an introduction to government and society in the UK, with a focus on the nature and sources of the British Constitution. It examines contemporary debates and events shaping the UK’s centralised and devolved political institutions and explores key themes of democracy, including power, justice, legitimacy and accountability. The module also develops cultural awareness through the study of the historical background and current operation of UK government and social structures. Module Code: IC40008
This module develops English language skills relevant to the academic study of Business or Energy Law and Policy through business-focused investigation. It introduces key business models and supports the analysis and interpretation of business source materials. The module also develops the use of business case studies to enhance understanding of how organisations operate in practice. Module Code: IC50009
This module introduces the analysis of corporate finance and financial markets, including the role of risk in portfolio choice and the functioning of international financial markets and banks. It covers investment appraisal, financial planning, sources of finance and working capital management, and examines how financial analysis informs firms’ investment and financing decisions. The module provides a strong foundation for successful engagement with a master’s programme in finance or related fields. Module Code: IC50006
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the key activities involved in establishing and managing a business. It examines different types of business and legal structures, management and leadership approaches, organisational behaviour and operations management, alongside core business functions such as marketing and human resource management. The module also considers contemporary challenges, including sustainability, technological change and evolving customer behaviour, and provides the knowledge and context required for progression to later stages of business management–related master’s programmes. Module Code: IC40019
This module supports the consolidation and further development of key skills required for master’s-level study. It introduces essential academic skills for students in their first term and allows more advanced skills development for those continuing into a second term. The module develops critical use of the Internet for research, reflective and self-evaluative learning, and group working and team-building skills. Module Code: IC40011
This module introduces the structure, demands and expectations of postgraduate study in business in the UK. It focuses on developing academic skills and effective learning strategies for master’s-level study, with particular emphasis on the use of the virtual learning environment, IT tools and online academic resources. The module supports critical evaluation of information from academic and professional sources, reflective and self-evaluative learning, and the development of group working and team-building skills, helping students prepare confidently for progression to their master’s programme. Module Code: IC50003
This module explores the impact of culture on management across a range of professional and research contexts. It examines how cultural differences create both challenges and opportunities in managing people, and develops awareness of cultural conditioning, biases and assumptions. The module covers cross-cultural frameworks, multicultural teamwork, global leadership, ethics, communication and negotiation, supporting effective management in international and diverse environments. Module Code: IC52004
Meet Ano, a student and hockey player from Zimbabwe
When I started looking at universities, I wasn’t just thinking about the course. I wanted more than just lectures and libraries. Back home, I played hockey every week. I loved the energy and the team spirit. So my parents and I searched for a place that valued sport and study.
University of Dundee
The University of Dundee is a leading institution in Scotland, known for its world-class teaching, innovative research and strong sense of community. Located on Scotland’s beautiful east coast, the University combines academic excellence with a friendly, inclusive environment in one of the United Kingdom’s most affordable cities.
You will benefit from hands-on learning, expert teaching and opportunities that prepare you for a successful global career. Dundee is a place where creativity, ambition and innovation come together, empowering you to make a real difference in the world.
Why choose the University of Dundee
Scottish University of the Year 2025
For its outstanding performance and long standing and impactful policies that put students first – Daily Mail University Guide 2025.
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering
Top in the UK for Bioengineering & Biomedical Engineering and 2nd for Medicine and for Dentistry. The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
In the UK for Education
In the subject rankings, 3rd in the UK for Education and 7th for Medicine, Finance, and Computer Science. The Daily Mail University Guide 2026.
Entry Requirements for
12th Grade Graduation Certificate with 50% in each subject
International Student Fees
You can find the applicable international student course fee for your chosen pathway study route listed below.
| Study Route | Tuition Fees (2025-26) |
|---|---|
| International Stage One (3 terms) | Business* / Social Studies – January, April, September – £18,995 Nursing / Life and Biomedical Sciences / Engineering / Computing – January, September – £19,895 |
| International Stage Two | All available subjects – January, September – £20,195 |
| International Foundation | Engineering – January, September – £19,895 Computing – January, September – £19,895 Life Biomedical Sciences – January, September – £19,895 Business – January, September – £18,995 Nursing – January, September – £19,895 |
| Pre-Masters (1 term) | Design / Health Education and Social Sciences** / Nursing – April, June – £11,195 Business / Computing / Energy & Sustainability / Engineering / Law – April, June, September – £11,195 |
| Pre-Masters (2 terms) | Business / Energy & Sustainability / Health Education and Social Sciences ** – January, April, June – £15,195 |
| International Stage One (2 terms) | Business / Computing / Life and Biomedical Sciences / Nursing – January, April – £13,195 |
| The Distance Learning Pre-Master’s Programme is available exclusively to students in China. For detailed information on fees and eligibility, please contact us here. | |
| Fees are not inclusive of scholarships. All applications are subject to a non-refundable admin Fee of £220. Stated fees are for the pathway only. Stated fees do not include the annual tuition fee applicable for degree course continued at the university after completion of your pathway. For more information on progression degree fees please visit the university website directly. | |
| *After successfully completing International Stage One (3 terms) in Business (April 2026 intake), you will progress to IS2 in January 2027 and continue to your chosen degree at the University of Dundee in September 2027, entering Year 3. | |
Scholarships at University of Dundee
Up to £6,000 scholarship for 3-term pathways
Up to £4,500 scholarship for 2-term pathways
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to £5,500 scholarship for 1-term pathway
Up to £5,000 scholarship for 2-term pathway
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to £5,000* for ICD student who completed pathway programme and progressing with Excellence outcome (Automatically assigned on progression if student has met an A grade average during their study in the college)
*Assigned on progression – if a students already has another scholarship confirmed (e.g. Vice Chancellors or GCS) they cannot combine these – they will be awarded the highest value scholarship only
Check the wide range of scholarships on the University of Dundee website
