MSc International Business at Exeter climbs into world top 10 in influential QS ranking

Exeter’s MSc International Business programme has secured 8th place in the QS International Trade Rankings 2027.

It is the first time the University of Exeter Business School’s MSc International Business has ranked in the QS top 10, and represents a rise of 12 places compared with last year.  

Entries from a total of 110 institutions from 39 countries featured in this year’s ranking, which aims to identify the top Global Business and Trade Master’s programmes in the world. 

MSc International Business came 1st for Innovative Teaching, a category which focuses on the teaching methods used within the programme and how students are assessed. 

Exeter’s programme was praised for its emphasis on experiential learning activities and its practice-based approach, evidenced through student work placements and internships. 

The programme also placed 8th for Trade Programme Content, a category that judges whether course content will ensure graduates have the skills that employers in international trade require. 

Professor Steve Wood, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the University of Exeter Business School, said: “I am delighted that the MSc International Business, one of our flagship master’s programmes, has been named in the QS top 10 international trade programmes in the world.

“The recognition is well-deserved, and testament to the superb teaching on the programme, and course content that is absolutely focused to ensure maximum relevance to the world of international trade. 

“It is so gratifying to see the programme go from strength to strength and build a reputation as one of the world’s standout master’s programmes for those seeking a career in international trade and business.” 

The QS International Trade Ranking is delivered in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation, a philanthropic organisation that included Exeter’s MSc International Business as one of the world’s top programmes in its Guide to Master’s in International Business and Trade 2025-2026.

The University of Exeter Business School is among the top 1% of global institutions to achieve Triple Crown accreditation from the three largest and most influential business school accreditation bodies worldwide: AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA.

It was named THE Business School of the Year for 2022 and is a finalist for THE Business School of the Year 2026.

Find out more about MSc International Business at the University of Exeter Business School here.