What you will study
Take a look at some of the content and modules that you may have the opportunity to study on this course:
Year 1
Year 1 introduces the foundations of international business. You'll cover the environmental influences faced by organisations, including key issues such as supply and demand, industrial structure, economies of scale, and investment in human capital. You'll also study international marketing and think about the relationship between marketing and other business functions.
You will begin the business readiness programme in preparation for your Business Practice in Year 2.
Core modules
Data Analytics for International Business
30 credits
This module is about managing business information. This not only requires various mathematical techniques such as statistical measures, but also is highly dependent on information technology (IT) for the gathering, summarising and communicating of this information. Mathematics and information technology are mutually dependent business topics. One would not use mathematics in business without the support of IT, and application software such as spreadsheets and databases are only used effectively with an appreciation of their underlying mathematical dependence. The module will be delivered using a problem-centric approach emphasising the application of mathematical techniques with the aid of information technology, and the employability skills associated with these.
Economics for Business
30 credits
This module introduces you to the external context in which organisations operate and in which they will eventually work. As potential managers of the future, defined as someone involved in assisting and directing members of an organisation to achieve their organisational objectives, you need to be equipped to understand the component parts of the external context within which organisations function. The variety and complexity of the external environment and interactions with organisations has a significant impact upon the way organisations are structured, the way their managers behave and the performance of the organisation in achieving its objectives. Consequently this module will equip you with the skills and knowledge of economics for business that is essential in the current business environment.
International Marketing
30 credits
This module gives you an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the marketing function in modern business and non-profit organisations. It develops your appreciation of the relationship between marketing and other business functions and your understanding of how marketing approaches may have to be modified when targeting international markets. It also enables you to appraise and develop marketing plans for a range of organisations operating in an international context.
Organisations and Entrepreneurship
30 credits
This module introduces you to the range of organisations that exist in modern business, from small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large scale multinationals. The variety of ways in which organisations are structured and managed is assessed using organisational behaviour theories. The behaviour and management of people at work is assessed by examining concepts relating to individuals and groups. A key focus of the module is the role of entrepreneurship in organisational development, both as a means of creating new organisations and as a mindset within all organisations in order to drive growth and success. The module also provides you with the means to develop the personal, professional and academic skills required to secure and succeed in a placement.
Year 2
In Year 2 you'll develop your problem-solving and decision-making skills in the context of international business functions. You will also explore the cultural context of business operations. In addition you will complete stage 2 of the business readiness programme. You will carry out your Business Practice in Year 2 from May, for a minimum of three months.
Core modules
Business Accounting
30 credits
This module introduces students to accounting in small and large businesses. The module emphasises the understanding and interpretation of financial information. It provides the skills needed to analyse the financial statements of public listed companies. This module also considers the fundamental concepts of management accounting and builds on them to provide an explanation of the diagnostic skills necessary to make many short-term, medium-term and long-term operating decisions within an organisation. Numerical aspects are balanced by the need to understand the usefulness of the information to users.
Culture and International Business
30 credits
This module initially examines international business environments and internationalisation strategies. The former includes the study of regional economic integration and institutions such as the World Trade Organisation and their implications for businesses. The latter covers internationalisation theories and concepts, and how firms could use them to formulate appropriate internationalisation strategies. The module then explores issues of culture and examines their relevance to international management. In addition, it will develop your skills of research, analysis, observation and communication in multicultural contexts. You will work in groups to apply theories and concepts learnt in the module to a real company.
Human Resource Management in an International Context
30 credits
This module considers the issues involved in the management of people in an international context. You will explore how national and regional differences in political, economic and social contexts impact on the employment relationship, You will also evaluate contemporary policies and practices to identify the human resource opportunities and challenges which face international enterprises in the 21st century. Emerging trends in global leadership and teams, the war for talent, the quest for the well-being of individuals and the need for work practices which are sustainable will be emphasized.
International Business Operations
30 credits
This module will develop your ability to evaluate different business environments and to analyse the opportunities and risks when an international company operates in an overseas market. It will help you develop decision-making skills for operational issues in international companies. This module includes the following topics – the global market environment, international market entry modes, international trade, risk management, culture and international human resource management (IHRM). It also includes global operations, international marketing, international finance, business ethics and corporate social responsibility.
Business Experience Options (choose 1)
Internship (work-based)
30 credits
The module consists of a period of placement in commercial, industrial, public sector or third sector organisations. In this module, students will have the opportunity to use the conceptual and theoretical knowledge acquired through their study of the core curriculum. During their period of placement they will develop a portfolio demonstrating the work done and provide a summary of their experience in the form of a short report.
The module seeks to ensure that students reflect on and develop the skills they acquired during the Business Preparation module, in attaining their placements, and in the subsequent placement itself, with a view to using these skills in their final year. Developing an understanding of the theory of business practice and applying this in work situations is particularly emphasised. Students will be in regular contact with the Business & Professional Experience Team during their time on placement, either face to face or via Skype or telephone depending on location.
Consultancy in Practice (campus-based)
30 credits
This module involves a real-life client project highlighting the important role of the consultant in an organisation. Models from management literature are applied within practical settings in order to relate theory to practice. Students are provided with an opportunity to develop their management skills by undertaking a live project for an external client. This activity emphasises the importance of blending business, people and technology issues when analysing problem situations in a business context. The module is assessed by the group consultancy project report for the client, this includes a self-reflection of the experience and presentations, with client and expert feedback.
The Entrepreneurship Experience (campus-based)
30 credits
This module is one of the options available to students during their work placement. Each of these options allows students to develop their skills and knowledge, and learn about the business environment and the world of work, linked to their main interests, in this case, the entrepreneurial environment. This module allows students to work in a start-up environment, either on their own idea or with a firm in an existing incubator or accelerator.
Optional year
You have the option to take an additional year to study abroad or to undertake a year-long work placement (or even a mix of both).
Final year
Your final year develops your critical understanding and your ability to contribute to strategic thinking in a global business. Working alongside students from around the world, you will undertake a group consultancy project for an international company. You will also explore corporate social responsibility in an international context.
Core modules
Strategic Management
30 credits
This module considers how organisations can grow and compete successfully. Students will develop an understanding of the environment and industry in which organisations operate, and an appreciation of how organisations use internal resources and competences for competitive advantage. The module examines the role of stakeholders and culture in an organisation, and the options an organisation has for its growth and development.
International Business Practice
30 credits
This module carries a strong focus on the practical and applied elements of international business. Building on your previous knowledge of international business theories and concepts, this module develops your skills in applying theories into the real international business world through experiential learning. The module also develops your critical thinking and ability to engage in the latest debates and issues facing international business organisations and to offer recommendations to solve real-life international business problems based on proper research data and analysis. You will be required to work both in international teams and individually to complete the two pieces of coursework on this module. Successful completion of this module will enhance your ability to work in an international context and equip you with in-depth understanding and insights of international business in practice.
Global Corporate Citizenship and Sustainability
30 credits
This module explores business situations, activities and decisions where issues of right and wrong are addressed. Its main emphasis is on the topics of corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustainability and business ethics, which are currently very prominent in the contemporary business environment and are important to business theory and practice. The module considers the key theoretical and practical aspects of managing CSR and sustainable development (SD). You will develop their understanding of the crucial issues of CSR and sustainability which help determine and frame the goals of business activities from an ethical perspective. Tutorial exercises, lectures, guest speakers, case studies and videos will be used to support the learning process.
Optional modules
Money, Banking and Financial Markets
15 credits
This module is for those students who want to develop their knowledge of finance into the areas of banking and financial markets. The module is concerned with the principles of management and strategic management and their applications to the financial services sector, including the banking, insurance, and securities sectors and financial markets and systems, all of which are essential to the functioning of modern economies. Although the module is about financial systems in general, there will be frequent reference to contemporary issues and problems, and to their historical antecedents. The approach will incorporate a blend of published economic and financial data, and as far as possible, international comparisons.
Financial Investments
15 credits
This module is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the field of investment. The main topics covered include: the UK stock market, stock valuation, investment strategies for equities, financial derivatives, portfolio diversification, optimal portfolio construction and financial risk management. Students will use the dedicated Bloomberg dealing room and software packages to access real-time financial data. Teaching consists of traditional lectures, and also lab sessions where hands-on practical exercises are provided. The module is assessed via the Bloomberg Market Concept (BMC) certificate and two coursework where students are required to construct and manage financial solutions for a specific period.
Organisational Learning and Development
30 credits
This capstone module addresses the need for learning and development (L&D) to be a strategic business function in order to enhance both individual performance and organisational success. Drawing upon knowledge acquired from a range of other modules (eg. Introduction to HRM, Organisational Behaviour; Strategic HRM and Strategic Management) students will learn how to provide development opportunities that have been carefully analysed, designed, delivered and evaluated, supported by an understanding of learning theory. The module will also enable students to contribute to the development of coaching and mentoring activities within organisations.
Employee Relations
30 credits
The focus of this module is the relationship between employers and employees. We examine the nature of this relationship and the significance of its key features for the relative power and position of the two main parties. We consider how the employment relationship is regulated and controlled and the resulting outcomes for employers and employees alike. In this regard, the role of trade unions, new employment relations actors such as Citizens Advice, and internal company human resource management systems are scrutinised and discussed. The impact of government legislation on employee relations outcomes and processes is also examined, as are other contextual influences such as the business environment, labour market and technological trends.
In addition to analysing general developments in employee relations, the module examines specific themes and aspects such as the management of discipline and dismissal and health and safety, and the employment experience of particular groups of workers (for example women and migrant workers).
Financial Management
30 credits
Working knowledge of finance by managers is a prerequisite for commercial viability of any enterprise. The offering of this module responds to the demand from potential employers for practically oriented education in financial management, underscored by the current stresses in financial and credit markets.
This module introduces business students to the key terminology and techniques of financial management that are regularly used in today's business environment. It lays the foundation for a proper understanding of more complex financial issues and is designed to equip you with knowledge of business finance required for making informed business decisions in a management-related career. The module explains the firm's goal of value maximisation, how the firm can make investment and financing decisions that add value, and also considers competing sources of finance available to firms and the main features of capital markets, with particular emphasis on the private sector of the UK economy. Graduates with financial management skills continue to have a competitive advantage in the job market, an edge that may become even more significant in an economic downturn.
Innovation
30 credits
Innovation acts as a key driver for economic growth providing social and economic benefits for local, national and international communities. Without innovation, our social and economic systems do not function! This module encourages you to understand how innovation actually happens by carrying out a practical innovation audit within a large established organisation. You will identify critical issues and skills needed to achieve entrepreneurially driven innovation. Since employers are seeking creative students who are able to initiate and participate in innovation activity, this module will enhance your employability in the wider world of work.
Service Operations Management
30 credits
This module explores the concepts, tools and techniques associated with service operations and focuses upon service evaluation, enhancement and improvement. The module is suitable for careers in retailing, financial services and consultancy.
International Entrepreneurship in SMEs
30 credits
This module provides students with the opportunity to discover how to plan the expansion of a small entrepreneurial business into international markets. Students will find out what it takes to plan towards expanding a small entrepreneurial business into international markets, gain experience of choosing modes of entry for small business internationalisation, assess international markets and produce financial projections for the business plan.
Psychology for Business and Management
30 credits
Psychology is a diverse scientific discipline comprising several major branches of research which study the mind and behaviour from different angles. Among these major branches of research, some produce knowledge which are highly relevant for business and management. The application of psychology to business and management issues occurs in several subareas of applied psychology, such as business psychology and, more recently, behavioural science.
Marketing Communications
30 credits
This module concentrates on the core features of the marketing communications function within the wider context of marketing planning, with a specific focus on the advertising, sales promotion, public relations and interactive marketing communications elements of the mix.
The module incorporates theoretical and conceptual considerations with the operational aspects of marketing communications planning to ensure that students develop the skills that are essential for a career in marketing communications, whether on the agency or client side. A combination of lectures, workshops, case study analysis and student presentations support the learning experience.
International Business Operations
30 credits
International Business Operations is designed to develop students' ability to assess the business environment faced by an international company and evaluate opportunities and risks in international marketplaces. This module will help students develop decision-making skills in operational issues for international companies. Classes will be delivered as a combination of lectures and tutorials.
This module will include the following topics: global market environment, international market entry modes, international trade, risk management, culture and international human resource management, global operations, international marketing, international finance, business ethics and corporate social responsibility.
Data Driven Decision Making
30 credits
This module is for students who are interested in management decision making and is designed to equip students with an advanced set of analytical and technical tools, including inferential data analysis, optimisation, prediction and simulation, to effectively manage and support business decision-making. Students will also gain a critical understanding of issues regarding the collection of data and the correct application of statistical techniques in a business context. The module builds upon the skills gained during Business Information Analysis and develops students' abilities for problem analysis, model building, application, and evaluation. Students will develop and extend their technical skills to reflect those required in the workplace. This will enable students to make decisions on a more informed basis. Teaching will be via a mixture of lectures and tutorials based around lab sessions and make use of online software, materials and assessment.
Building Digital Systems
30 credits
This module introduces the principles of Information Architecture (IA), equipping students with the knowledge, skills and technologies required to design a typical information architecture solution. Students will gain experience in designing and implementing a prototype solution; understand the difference between mobile and web applications; learn about the importance of modelling data using tight, loose and social classification systems; and the way that navigation and search have changed the ways that information is used. The sessions will be interactive and include a mix of teacher-led learning, problem-solving, and student-led learning.
Managing Brands
30 credits
The module introduces you to the often controversial theories relating to the concept of ‘the brand' and to the contemporary challenges faced by brands and their managers. Whilst underpinned by theory, the module develops practical skills which will be useful for those considering a career in brand management, such as selecting appropriate visual and identification elements for the brand (e.g. packaging, logos, name), deciding whether or not to extend a brand, and leveraging brand associations via sponsorship and co-branding. Scheduled teaching and learning includes a mixture of lectures and video case studies, as well as class debates and presentations on ‘hot issues' in branding.
Data Analytics for Business
15 credits
The aim of this module is to give students a foundation in the uses of data analytics for business. It aims at a critical understanding of issues regarding the collection of data and the correct application of statistical techniques in a business context. The module introduces students to analytical tools and including inferential data analysis to support business decision-making. The module builds upon the skills gained during the first year and develops students' abilities for problem articulation, analysis, and evaluation. Students will develop and extend their technical skills to reflect those required in the workplace and will also develop an appreciation of the quality of data, the meaning of findings and the limitations of model building. This will enable students to make decisions on a more informed basis. Teaching will be via a mixture of lectures and tutorials based around lab sessions and make use of online software, materials and assessment.
Developing Web Applicants for Business
15 credits
This module introduces the principles of Information Architecture (IA), equipping students with the knowledge, skills and technologies required to design a typical information architecture solution that works using web technologies. Students will gain experience in designing and implementing prototype solution using server-side scripting languages and database servers. The sessions will be interactive and include a mix of teacher-led learning, problem-solving, and student-led learning.
Business Law and Ethics
15 credits
This module is designed to provide students with a general understanding of the English legal system and a more advanced understanding of the principal areas of law that may be encountered in business or professional practice and which are of concern to accounting and finance professionals, focussing on civil and criminal consequences for these professionals. The module commences with a focus on sources of law and the court system in England and Wales, before considering the areas of contract, agency and tort law, which underline business transactions. This module will then examine unethical and criminal behaviour relevant to accountants or business in practice, including ethical behaviour, fraud, bribery and anti-money laundering.
Professional Selling
15 credits
The module builds on your marketing knowledge by developing your understanding of the theory and application of Professional Selling & Sales Management. Effective selling adds to shareholder value and enhances the return on investment of marketing expenditure. You will understand how to recruit, motivate and manage salespeople as the key professional selling resource, including how to balance people with finance and other resources. The module also develops your understanding of the role that IT plays in informing sales strategy development and in the structured sales planning process. The module will be of particular benefit to those aiming to develop a career in this area across the business, professional and consumer contexts. The module will combine a mix of interactive instructor-led lectures and workshops, and student-led learning activities including case study discussions and presentations.
Business Decision Modelling
15 credits
This module is designed to equip students with an advanced set of analytical data modelling tools, including optimisation, prediction and simulation, to effectively manage and support business decision-making. The module extends students' skillsets developed in the first year to include problem analysis, model building, application, and evaluation, to reflect the technical skills required in the workplace. Teaching will be via a mixture of lectures and tutorials based around lab sessions and make use of online software, materials and assessment.
Rapid App Development for Business
15 credits
This module introduces the principles of rapid app development, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and technologies required to quickly develop a typical information architecture solution that works using low or no code technologies. Students will gain experience in designing and implementing prototype solution using one of the most popular no-code environments, Mendix. The sessions will be interactive and include a mix of teacher-led learning, problem-solving, and student-led learning.
CSR in Marketing
15 credits
This module examines topics at the interface between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethical marketing, and their relevance and importance in contemporary business and marketing environments. The module also explores the role and importance of CSR and sustainability, and their implementation in key marketing decisions including advertising, branding and ethical consumption. The role of social marketing is considered - the application of marketing principles and techniques to further social good and wellbeing. Students will develop an understanding and sensitivity to ethical considerations that arise in the practice of responsible marketing and an awareness of the ethical challenges that marketers face when operating across international country markets. The module will combine a mix of interactive instructor-led lectures and workshops, and student-led learning activities including case study discussions and presentations.
Marketing Simulation
15 credits
The module builds on the marketing module delivered at level 4 and / or 5. It is designed to equip students for a career in marketing management by enabling them to develop short, medium and long-term marketing strategies and to evaluate and control marketing performance against these strategies.
This module enables students to participate in a computerised marketing game which simulates a real marketing environment. Working in teams, students will have the opportunity to make and analyse marketing decisions and learn from any mistakes in a risk-free environment. Students will identify and use relevant marketing theories and apply them to information provided by the simulation game, allowing them to make marketing decisions within specified time periods. The game provides the opportunity for students to integrate tactics with longer-term strategic decision making, since their decisions will be made over 8-to-10 periods game, which forces them to manage short-term profitability as well as long-term marketing objectives.
Teams experience the implications of their marketing decisions in a way that is close to real-life. From an employability perspective, the experience of working in teams to achieve common objectives will assist in improving students' leadership skills, as well as making decisions under pressure, resilience, and analytical skills.
