MSc in Leadership | University of Essex Online

Location

United Kingdom

Study Format

Online

Course language

English

Study Fields

Organizational Leadership, Sustainability

Duration

2 Years

Academic pace

Part-time

Degree

Master of Science (MSc)

Tuition Fee

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Program Description

Discover what makes a successful leader with this MSc Leadership from the University of Essex Online. Delivered 100% online, part-time, this course clearly distinguishes between leadership and management, while teaching you strategic ways to make dynamic business decisions. You’ll also explore sustainable business models, leadership in a global context, and the role of data analysis and collection. On completion, you’ll be ready to take on leadership and business consultancy positions in a wide range of industries, including engineering, computing, marketing and the not-for-profit sector. The MSc Leadership is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 180 credits.

High Impact Leadership – Core, 20 credits
Leadership and Management Development – Compulsory, 20 credits
Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Enterprise – Compulsory, 20 credits
Leadership for Sustainability – Compulsory, 20 credits
Data Analytics for Managers – Compulsory, 20 credits
Leadership in Practice – Compulsory, 20 credits
Research Methods – Core, 20 credits
Business and Management Research Report – Core, 40 credit

Shorter awards are available for this course; the 16-month postgraduate diploma (PG Dip) at 120 credits and the 8-month postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) at 60 credits. On successful completion of your degree course, you’ll receive a degree validated by the University of Essex and be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s Colchester Campus.

Online learning environment This course is delivered 100% online, part-time, providing you with the flexibility to fit your studies around work and other commitments. You’ll receive access to a cutting-edge virtual learning platform, where you can access core learning materials, lectures and seminars, as well as interact with tutors and other students.

Assessment This programme is assessed entirely by written coursework, which means there are no exams to sit. You’ll also benefit from seeing your provisional mark from the beginning of the course, which helps to evaluate your study approach and identify areas to improve.

About the School

University of Essex Online offer 100% online and part-time degree courses to both UK and international students. They’re one of the top 30 universities in the UK (Complete University Guide 2025). All University of Essex Online degrees are awarded and validated by the University of Essex. This means you’ll get to benefit from world-class research, ground-breaking teaching, and become part of a truly global community. We're proud to be rated Gold in the Times Higher Education (THE) Online Rankings 2024. Our achievement, which is based on four pillars - resources, engagement, outcomes and environment - recognises our commitment to excellent online education. Our students benefit from a flexible approach to learning while receiving the same dedicated support. Whether you're a professional looking to enhance your career or a school leaver who wants to boost their CV, online study is a cost-effective, convenient and flexible way to get ahead.

Admission Requirements

At University of Essex Online, we believe everyone should be able to access education. That’s why we take both academic and work-based experience into account when deciding if a student is eligible for a course. All our potential students are assessed individually by a dedicated Admissions team who’ll determine whether they’re right for either our academic, open or work experience entry route onto our courses. Academic entry route

an undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree; or a relevant professional qualification

Work experience entry route

three years’ relevant work experience within a relevant field of business, industry or a not-for-profit organisation, supported by two appropriate references

English language requirements As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency. You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the countries listed on our website.

Scholarship Opportunities

Designated for postgraduate student loans in England.
Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies.
Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront.
Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries.
Alumni discount of 10% of the tuition fee available if you are a previous graduate with the University of Essex or University of Essex Online.
10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships.

Career Opportunities

This course is beneficial whether you’re already in a leadership role or aspire to become a leader within any organisation. On completion, you’ll have gained the key skills and knowledge required for a variety of leadership positions across various industries, from marketing to computing and engineering. You’ll also have the opportunity to advance your studies further with our PG Dip Leadership (120 credits) or the full MSc Leadership (180 credits). Gaining a postgraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online also puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from our 2024 Career and Employability Survey showed:

Over 80% of postgraduates saw a salary increase
3 in 5 postgraduate alumni said their degree helped them gain a promotion
2 in 5 students feel ready to make a career change
90% of students felt better prepared for their career after studying with us