Digital Business and Entrepreneurship
Digital Business
Salford Business School
Full-time
Part-time
One year
Two year
January 2024
In a nutshell
International applicants: please check the international intakes page for the latest information and application dates.
Developed in response to a shortage of digital skills identified both nationally and globally, our master’s in Digital Business has been designed to provide you with key practical skills for the current marketplace, including strategic planning, critical thinking and project management.
MSc Digital Business is designed to help create multifaceted business leaders with the skill set and knowledge to launch innovative businesses, work in tech and manage digital transformation projects.
Combining topics usually explored in Information Systems, Digital Marketing and Management postgraduate degrees, Digital Business expands your technological knowledge and helps you develop essential leadership skills. You’ll look beyond the tech buzzwords and explore the real business applications, risks and opportunities of emerging technologies.
Greater Manchester has long been established as one of the largest tech hubs outside of the capital and Salford is right at the heart of that innovation. The North West has the highest demand for digital-based workers outside London with over 222,000 people employed by tech start-ups and scaleups in the region. We are also home to nine of the UK's tech unicorns and the region received £787m in venture capital investment funding last year. You’ll take advantage of the opportunities the region has to offer through support from research-active academics and engagement with industry throughout the programme.
Six good reasons to choose Salford Business School:
- Study with research-active and internationally-recognised members of the SBS Disruptive Technologies Cluster
- Salford is a city focussed on using digital technologies to transform lives, as represented by #DigitalSalford
- We have excellent industry links with digital companies in the dynamic Greater Manchester business community
- Develop real-world learning on the unique Industry Collaboration Project
- Multiple start dates fit with your life priorities
- Focus on the digital, ethical and sustainability business challenges of the 21st century.
Find out more, register for one of our Open Days, explore the Salford campus on our virtual tour or learn more about our master's courses in business, finance and law.
You will:
- Look at how social, innovative, and disruptive technologies drive businesses forward for competitive advantage
- Become critically aware of the capabilities of emerging technologies
- Learn to manage strategic digital environments
- Develop the approaches and skills needed to lead large and complex projects
- Critically explore search and social media marketing and the tools used in marketing communications
- Gain practical and transferable digital skills and techniques
options available
students accepted
Course accreditations

This for you if...
You are enthusiastic about digital technologies
You aspire to work in a digital business
You are a problem solver and want to be a critical thinker
You want a career pathway in digital and business to compete in the marketplace
You want to join a supportive educational community at Salford Business School
You want a different innovative mode of learning
All about the course
The programme is block delivered and there are several entry points throughout the year. You will study the modules below in a sequence dependent on your start date.
The course is delivered in four blocks of intensive study periods. For each block, you study a single module for a six-week period. Teaching is delivered for six hours each week. In addition, you will attend weekly Supporting Student Success sessions to support your learning. You will also undertake independent study in your own time with online support through the University’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard.
The Industry Collaboration Project (ICP) module accounts for the final 60 credits of your degree. You will have the opportunity to select between a placement, internship or dissertation, all of which are designed to accommodate your career aspirations and enhance your professional experience. You can choose to work with your own or another organisation on a live brief.
You will be allocated a supervisor who will mentor you through the ICP. You will also have the opportunity to engage with the Student Hub and askUK. askUK can help with pre-project/placement support for students and opportunities for those going on placement to participate in training workshops to ensure best practice. You are responsible for finding your internship, placement or live project but the Student Hub can help you.
As part of her course and in order to build her real-world skills, student Teni Ijabiyi took part in the Global Business Challenge. Read about her experience and what she learned.
Part-time students study alternate modules (one module on, one module off) to complete their degree in two years.
The Digital Business and Entrepreneurship module has been designed specifically to equip you with the practical and theoretical skills needed for contemporary business settings; you will gain an understanding of the role of inactive business models (think Uber) that can exploit innovative and disruptive technologies such as drones, robotics, and wearable tech. There is a focus on entrepreneurial skills essential for those starting their own businesses and also for those working in digital business settings. The module will encourage you to critically assess how social, disruptive and innovative technologies can become key business enablers and facilitate strategic competitive advantages.
Teaching:
The teaching team are all internationally-recognised researchers and members of the Business School’s Disruptive Technologies Cluster so bring contemporary research into their teaching.
We use an Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) approach to encourage student-centred learning, collaboration and self-directed study. You can expect to present your findings and solutions to the entire class and guest entrepreneurs for open discussion and constructive feedback. You will learn via:
- Interactive lectures and workshops
- Panel discussions, round table debates and student-led discussions
- Guest speakers from industry
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
100% Digital business portfolio
Search and Social Media Marketing
This module aims to develop your core skills in social media-based targeting and communication strategies. We will consider a host of topics that look at the strategic analysis of social media platforms from a communications perspective, key metrics, tools, techniques and strategy development frameworks.
You will look at search engine optimisation and search engine marketing, site audit, content optimization etc. We will use intensive case discussion sessions, group activities, practitioner lectures and insightful study materials to look at how marketing communication through social media is achieved. This module is accredited by the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM).
Teaching and learning reflect real-world industry needs and offer you the opportunity to practise your skills on your own digital profiles as well as mini projects. You will learn through:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Small group learning sets will be used as the basis for problem-based learning scenarios designed to include case studies, class-based activities, research articles and web-based materials
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessment:
25 minute video presentation
Information Systems and Digital Transformation
Most businesses are undergoing some form of digital transformation, this module has been designed in partnership with business leaders to take a critical overview of the processes that are involved. You will develop a theoretical and practical understanding of the needs of organisations when strategically planning transformation and integrating business information systems. You will also achieve a holistic knowledge of the critical role of Information Technology/ Systems (IT/S), both at corporate and business levels, enabling you to be ready to support and deliver professional, ethical and legal services in IT/S transformation.
The module is divided into six topic specific blocks. Each block will introduce the topic, via interactive/participatory lecture and tutorial/seminar sessions and close with a reflection and synopsis of the topic area. Each block will inform the following block.
Teaching is delivered via:
- interactive lecture sessions, timed tasks, panel discussions, round table debates and quizzes. These will be explored in greater detail by students, working individually or in small groups on a case study, or articles/whitepapers from associated business resources. Groups will be asked to present their solutions to the larger class and these will be openly discussed.
- guest speakers (including graduates) from industry provide you with valuable examples of current practices, career advice and networking opportunities.
- additional guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
100% Digital portfolio
Project Management, Leadership and Skills: Planning and Control
You will learn about the approaches, skills and methods of effective project management, and the tools and techniques required for planning, control, teamwork, leadership and other key processes. All of these qualities will develop your ability to lead large and complex projects.
Teaching:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Group working on problem-based learning scenarios
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
100% Written assignment to assess your understanding of the theory of Project Management
Work Placement
This is a paid industry placement and provides you with the opportunity to undertake 6-month employment with an organisation located regionally, nationally, or internationally.
You will source your own placement; however, you will have lots of support from the University of Salford and the Business School employability-hub and from your current industry contacts. You will also benefit from preparatory lectures in study skills, action planning, consultancy and more.
As part of your placement, you will analyse a ‘live’ business opportunity. This will include critical reflection on opportunities that allow you to apply the theoretical skills you have learned on your programme to an existing business issue; along with how you will develop and use appropriate problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. You will work on an organisational issue, working with the client on a full-time basis.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your placement, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The ICP work placement will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word project report that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your placement. Your project report will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word project report
Internship
This can be a paid or unpaid internship and provides you with the opportunity to undertake 3-month internship with an organisation located regionally, nationally, or internationally.
You will source your own internship; however, you will have lots of support from the University of Salford and the Business School employability-hub and from your current industry contacts. You will also benefit from preparatory lectures in study skills, action planning, consultancy and more.
As part of your internship, you will analyse a ‘live’ business opportunity. This will include critical reflection on opportunities that allow you to apply the theoretical skills you have learned on your programme to an existing business issue; along with how you will develop and use appropriate problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. You will work alongside an organisation to identify and explore a real organisational issue up to 20 hours per week.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your internship, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The ICP internship will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word project report that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your internship. Your project report will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word project report
Applied Dissertation
A 3-month Applied Dissertation provides you with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to you and this should fit in with your programme of study. This is an advanced-level applied research pathway that can be based on a real-world business problem and examining an issue important to an organisation. The Applied Dissertation route provides you with the opportunity to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge you have gained from the taught elements of your course to a current organisational issue. You will implement and effectively use appropriate problem-solving skills through critical self-reflection and methodical, systematic research. It is a very good option to choose if you are considering moving into academic research or PhD upon completion of your master’s programme.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your Applied Dissertation, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The Applied Dissertation will be assessed in the form of a 15,000-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word dissertation
Entrepreneurship
A 3-month entrepreneurship dissertation involves analysing business opportunities and writing a business plan including critical reflection on opportunities, challenges and strategies. This will lead you on to establish a new business or incorporate your entrepreneurial thinking into the management of existing organisations. You should demonstrate an understanding through the development of an enterprise idea in a specific sector or industry, together with evidence of critical and analytical evaluation. You may find the entrepreneurship dissertation both challenging and rewarding, as it is a practical module in an area which you should have an interest in.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout the entrepreneurship dissertation route. They will assist you in developing your skills and reasoning to support entrepreneurial action while working on the development of your own innovative business idea. In doing this, you will prepare a proposal, ethical considerations for your data collection and field work to support the development of your business plan.
The Entrepreneurship route will be assessed in the form of an 8,500-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your entrepreneurial business idea. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 8,500 word dissertation
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Why choose us?
Situated at the heart of Greater Manchester's £5 billion-pound business, finance and digital sector, Salford Business School stands as a dynamic hub for the development and exchange of knowledge. We combine cutting-edge learning with strong industry connections, preparing you to lead change in the fast-paced world of business and management.
Our expert-led and industry-informed programmes provide highly practical teaching enriched with real-world learning opportunities. Most of our programmes offer various work placements locally, nationally, and internationally, allowing you to practice and develop your learning.
Throughout your journey, we will equip you for a fulfilling life and professional career, fostering curiosity, adaptability, and confidence to tackle 21st-century challenges.
Business: Science or art?
Our postgraduate degree award is a Masters of Science (MSc), reflecting our commitment to data-driven, evidence-based business decisions, even in innovative and creative endeavours.
Where will I learn?
You will study at our green Peel Park campus, just a short five-minute journey from central Manchester with close transport links, and our state-of-the-art campus at MediaCity is just a short bus ride away.
Our dedicated student hub on the sixth floor of the Maxwell Building provides areas for collaborative and independent study and break-out spaces. Additionally, here you can find our in-school progression and careers teams to support your journey.
Getting here
Our campuses are easily accessible, with Salford Crescent train station at the centre of our Peel Park campus. Whether travelling to us by bus, rail, bike, car, or plane, our campus is easily reached from all over Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and beyond. For international students, Manchester Airport is a short ride away and offers regular flights from London and many international airports.
Programme Leader
Dr Marie Griffiths
Dr Marie Griffiths is the Business School’s Director of Post Graduate Research (PGR) and Programme Leader for digital-focused modules at UG and PG levels. As a key member of the Women in Tech sub cluster of the Research Cluster for Disruptive Technology at Salford Business School, she ensures that internationally recognised research informs the teaching on this programme. Marie is also the former President of the UKAIS (UK Academy of Information Systems) and a Digital Trustee at Emmaus Salford.
Her research focuses on how emerging technologies impact work, communication, play, and learning. She is particularly interested in issues of privacy, digital identities, and data accumulation. Marie has a successful track record of working with SMEs on digital transformation and has co-authored a book titled ‘Strategic Digital Transformation: a results driven approach’. Additionally, she has been part of the academic team on ten Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.
Dedicated support
Starting or continuing to study at university is a big decision, and we are committed to supporting you throughout your time with us.
Our in-school Student Progression Assistants address programme and workload matters, whilst the Careers and Employability team, along with in-school advisors, offers personalised career support. The Library provides diverse learning support beyond your course, and for non-course matters, our university-wide support service, askUS, assist with topics from financial management to wellbeing.
If entrepreneurship appeals to you, Launch @Salford, our start-up incubator, offers expert insight and support. Additionally, our Business School's Postgraduate Mentoring Scheme connects new master's students with existing ones, providing valuable guidance during your transition.
These integrated support methods aim to help you seamlessly transition into your postgraduate course and ensure success during your time with us.
A global community
Salford Business School is home to a diverse global student-staff community. Our teaching team consists of active researchers, academics, and industry experts who offer the latest in theory, research, and industry expertise.
Furthermore, our diverse student community brings together individuals from various backgrounds and experiences, providing you with a well-rounded perspective, knowledge, and friendships that will shape you into a future leader and global citizen. This equips you to thrive in life and your career, instilling curiosity, adaptability, and confidence to confront the digital, ethical, and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
What about after uni?
Digital transformation is challenging many businesses as everyone looks to harness the potential of being digital – Digital Business ensures you have the key skills and practical expertise to succeed in this changing market place. Additionally many graduates often progress to become business owners and consultants.
Once you graduate you will gained a highly regarded qualification, as well as personal and organisational management skills that will enhance your career prospects.
Career Links
The University of Salford grew out of the institutes of the late 19th century that provided a talented, technically proficient and professional workforce to support the UK’s rapidly growing industries. In the 21st century, this still holds strong. Whilst industry has changed significantly, the need for industry-focused education is equally relevant today.
We teach the skills that employers need and as a result, our graduates enjoy excellent international career prospects.
The curriculum across our postgraduate courses balances academic teaching and professional experience. Our industry partners give us their input into the curriculum so that the teaching reflects industry’s current and future needs and you develop the skills that employers want. The Industry Collaboration Project, which forms the final third of your study, is designed to give you real-world experience so you can apply the theory you have learned.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
This course is ideal for graduates who want to establish a career in digital business or for existing managers who wish to enhance their digital skills and future career prospects. As digital is impacting every sector, we accept graduates from a range of different backgrounds. Alternatively you may be currently working, have your own business and want to strengthen your capabilities.
Every business will be a digital business and there are key innovative skills and analytical mindsets needed to succeed. You should also be curious, self-motivated and have good written and verbal communication skills.
The MSc is the only route available for international students. Find out more about the dedicated support for international applicants.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
All of our courses are taught and assessed in English, so as an applicant you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6 with no element below 5.5.
We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course.
Undergraduate degree
Normally a minimum 2:2 honours degree or equivalent.
A wide range of professional qualifications are also accepted either in partial or complete fulfilment of entry requirements.
Where a student has gained a recognised honours degree but does not meet the normal entry qualification requirement, they may still be considered for entry if they can demonstrate relevant work experience of a minimum two years duration post study and acceptable level of responsibility.
International Students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.
Accreditation Of Prior Learning (APL)
We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.
The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.
Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
How much?
Type of study | Year | Fees |
---|---|---|
Full-time home | 2023/24 | £8,550.00per year |
Full-time international | 2023/24 | £15,750.00per year |
Full-time home | 2024/25 | £8,550.00per year |
Full-time international | 2024/25 | £16,560.00per year |
Part-time | 2024/25 | £1,425 per 30 credit module |
Fees for PgDip (4 x 30 credit modules) and PgCert (2 x 30 credit modules) are based on the fee shown above for part-time per 30 credit module.
Additional costs
For more information please see our funding section.
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships opportunities
The Aziz Foundation is kindly funding the Aziz Foundation Scholarship at the University of Salford to support British Muslims who wish to advance in their careers and bring positive change to their communities. Learn more about scholarships and bursaries.
Additionally, if you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our international scholarships.
All set? Let's apply
Still have some questions? Register for one of our Open Days or contact us:
By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By phone: +44 (0)161 295 4545