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MSc Leadership

Step into leadership with the University of Essex Online’s MSc in Leadership. Study part-time, gain strategic skills, and advance your career with flexible online learning.

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Time investment: 2 years

Location: Online

Cost: £12,858 International Price £13,427

Language: English

About this degree

Develop your strategic leadership skills for global impact with MSc Leadership

Begin your transformative leadership journey with the University of Essex Online’s MSc in Leadership. Immerse yourself in a flexible, online programme crafted for aspiring leaders aiming to elevate their strategic impact across various industries.

This MSc, delivered by Kaplan Open Learning, blends academia with practical insights, ensuring you acquire the leadership prowess needed for today’s dynamic business landscape.

Strengthen your leadership competencies

Build essential leadership skills with a curriculum that challenges and inspires. With modules including High Impact Leadership and Leadership for Sustainability, you’ll gain a deep understanding of leading in complex environments.

Hone your expertise in Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Enterprise, preparing you to navigate and lead in multifaceted scenarios. Learn how to harness data with Data Analytics for Managers, equipping yourself with decision-making prowess powered by data-driven insights.

Expand your understanding with practical and theoretical insights

Apply leadership strategies with confidence by combining theory with real-world learning. This programme lays a strong foundation through its practice-oriented and theoretical modules.

Conduct in-depth research with the Business and Management Research Report, allowing you to explore a significant area of interest under expert supervision.

Gain hands-on experience in real-world business or consultancy scenarios and emerge with a comprehensive leadership toolkit to apply in strategic decision-making.

Global leadership: the path to a versatile career

Position yourself for leadership roles across industries with an MSc in Leadership from the University of Essex Online.

Develop your skills in Leaders and Management Development, learning how to adapt strategic goals based on performance metrics. The focus on practical leadership applications ensures that you’re prepared for high-impact roles, giving you the edge in the global job market.

Join a network of diverse professionals and benefit from a course that stands at the forefront of leadership education. The academic journey is enriched by the expertise of our faculty, enabling you to apply what you learn directly to real-world challenges.

Where you’ll be studying

Studying at the University of Essex Online

The University of Essex Online offers over 80 industry-led undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, computing, criminology, education, health, law and psychology.

Teaching is delivered 100% online and students benefit from a flexible approach to learning that allows them to fit study around their other commitments. Degrees are awarded by the University of Essex – ranked 12th in the Guardian University Guide 2026.

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Learning outcomes

Examine leadership strategies for going global.

Explore the role of data analysis and collection in making business decisions.

Investigate sustainability through business models and strategies.

Understand the impact of culture and values on leadership and organisational performance.

Produce a major piece of academic research on a chosen topic within business and management towards the end of your studies.

Additional information

Applicants should have a bachelor's degree or equivalent professional qualification. Relevant work experience is preferred but not mandatory.

Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency.

The MSc in Leadership is a flexible, part-time programme delivered over two years, designed to fit around your professional and personal commitments.
With modules running every 10 weeks, you’ll integrate learning with real-world practice, supported by interactive assessments and peer discussions that foster a collaborative learning environment.

Embrace this opportunity and equip yourself with leadership capabilities that will transform your career trajectory.
Engage with our comprehensive support system, enjoy a personalised educational experience, and achieve an accredited qualification, recognised for its excellence in leadership education.

You’ll be assessed through various assignments, including discussion forum participation, reflective journal entries, live presentations, and written submissions.

We ensure clear and frequent feedback with transparent grading criteria, real-time access to your provisional grades, and a 7-day turnaround for marking. Plus, our Student Support team is always available to address any concerns.

Strategic Management Leader: Lead companies by crafting and implementing innovative strategies.
Organisational Development Consultant: Facilitate organisational change and continuous improvement.
Innovation Manager: Drive growth through managing and fostering innovation.
Project Director: Oversee complex projects aligning with strategic objectives.
Executive Leadership Coach: Guide senior leaders to refine their executive skills and organisational impact.