Overview
A new and exciting degree to prepare you for a global and culturally diverse career.
Summary
Now more than ever businesses are becoming better connected and operating internationally. With international economies booming there is a world of opportunities for business graduates with an international perspective. Whether you dream of working abroad or have ambitions to work across international boundaries and cultures, this brand new degree will give you the competitive edge and the expertise to succeed at an international level.
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About this course
About
You’ll learn about business practices in a global setting covering a range of topics such as managing in a global business environment, accounting and finance, global strategic management, international marketing and data analysis. You’ll also gain expertise from an operational point of view including learning about international trade management, export and import management and operations and supply chain management.
The course content has been designed to focus on practical skills that are in high demand and will give you a chance for you to develop your creativity, adaptability, digital skills, teamwork, communication, confidence, cultural awareness, resilience, and leadership.
You will also cover current issues and trends making the course extremely relevant to todays industry. This combined with an opportunity in third year to undertake an international placement year or study abroad will give you the real-world experience employers are looking for. Taught on our Magee campus you will be in a unique position to learn in an international trade setting.
Associate awards
Diploma in Professional Practice DPP
Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS
Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI
Attendance
Full-time study involves 6 modules each year of your degree, 3 modules per semester. Semester 1 runs from September to December each year and Semester 2 runs from late January to early May each year.
You can expect to be taught approximately 3 hours per week per module. However, extra workshops and other sessions are often provided. Therefore, there will be a minimum of 9-10 hours teaching per week.
As a full-time student you will typically be on campus 3 days per week during each semester, to attend lectures and seminars. Classes are usually scheduled between 9.15am and 5.15pm Monday to Friday during each semester. You are expected to spend approximately 10 additional hours of independent study per module per week. Many students book study rooms on campus or meet in the library area to work together on module activities and assessment.
Start dates
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Learning and Teaching
A varied and interesting mix of learning and teaching methods is used to enhance your knowledge and understanding, as well as providing you with opportunities to practice and develop your intellectual, practical and transferable skills. Active participation is encouraged in class where yourvoice will be respected and heard through discussion, presentations and interactive group work.
For each module you will have weekly lectures and seminars. Lectures are used to explain and develop the skills identified as being important to you in developing your professional and personal development within the subject areas. They provide the framework for you to independently learn anddevelop your skills. Weekly seminars will provide opportunities for you to engage in an in-depth appreciation of theoretical and practical issues related to the subject area. In addition, a number of modules involve small group teaching in a workshop format.
Assessment
Assessments will be varied and flexible and based on the learning outcomes associated with each module. Assessment types range from class tests, individual essays, business reports, group projects, case study analysis, group and individual presentations reflective portfolios, individual/group video, visualisation dashboard, digital story and written examination.
Content
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
Attendance and Independent Study
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10- or 20-credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate course typically 15- or 30-credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessment. The precise assessment will depend on the module and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification and the assessment timetable. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised.
Calculation of the Final Award
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study. In Master’s degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Academic profile
The BSc International Business degree is closely aligned to the department’s global business ethos including the MSc International Business which is offered by the department. The Department of Global Business and Enterprise has strong ties with the professional body, Institute of Exporters and International Trade, as well as with employers and industry locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. These ties will be further enhanced by the proposed International Trade and Enterprise Centre (ITEC) based on the Magee campus.
All lecturing staff within the Department of Global Business and Enterprise are Fellows/Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy.
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 59% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (25%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (18%) or Lecturers (57%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic staff (81%) are accredited fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures correct for academic year 2019-2020.
Modules
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Professional and Academic Skills for IB Students
Year: 1
Status: C
The transition to university can be challenging for students as they are required to meet many expectations and develop a range of skills to assist them in doing so. This module is designed to facilitate that transition and the set students on a solid path to success as a student, a graduate and a citizen. The module is designed to be both developmental and supportive to students entering first year so that they can better understand and develop their personal, professional and academic potential.
Markets and Marketing
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides students with an appreciation of the nature, scope and breadth of the fundamental concepts of marketing.
Managing in a Global Business Environment
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to prepare students to be effective managers in the area of global business. It addresses the potential and risk factors associated with global marketplaces, operational decision-making, strategy and succeeding in different cultural environments. It introduces a range of management concepts and ideas that provide the foundation for further (specialised) study of global business.
Introduction to Export and Import Management
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides the student with a solid understanding of export and import terminology, principles, applications and value. Particular attention is awarded to global trade and operations management practices. The opportunity to construct a simple export/import strategy is provided. On completion of the module students will be equipped with the skills necessary to understand and appreciate the role that export and import plays in sustainable local and international companies and economies.
Accounting and Finance for Managers
Year: 1
Status: C
Accounting and finance is an essential function of all international businesses. This module focuses on the accounting and finance skills and techniques required by managers working in international businesses. The module encompasses both short term and long term corporate decision making, such as capital investment, the sourcing of international finance and costing products and services for the international market.
and long term corporate decision making, such as capital investment, the sourcing of international finance and costing products and services for the international market.
SME Development and Internationalisation
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides students with an appreciation and knowledge of the classification, role and value of SMEs operating within open economies. It develops students understanding around the concept of SME growth and development providing them with practical insights from an international trade perspective. The module will be taught using a variety of methods including formal lectures/seminars, group and individual work, guest lectures, company visits, amongst others. The module will introduce students to employability and inspiring them to think about their own personal and professional development journey. The module will also encourage them to explore research, link with local SME sector and to think creatively to solve problem and suggest and defend recommendations and solutions.
Year two
Advanced Professional Skills and Employability for IB Students
Year: 2
Status: C
Today's students are graduating into an international business environment. International employers are looking for graduates who cannot only demonstrate their academic capabilities, but perhaps more importantly, who can demonstrate professional confidence. In response to international employer expectations, this engaging and interactive module will serve to support the student's personal and professional development and facilitate their lifelong journey towards fulfilling their career path.
International Economics and Finance
Year: 2
Status: C
A solid understanding of international economics and finance is critical for international business students so they understand the realities of the context in which busines occurs. This module will give students a strong foundation in both of these areas covering theoretical, empirical and policy issues related to international trade, production and finance.
Operations and Supply Chain Management
Year: 2
Status: C
This module equips students to understand the issues concerned with managing an organisation's resources and to appreciate the complexity of problems related to monitoring and managing operational performance. The teaching and learning methods incorporate inherently practical activities that are representative of the subject. The module demonstrates the importance of operations management to every organisation's success.
Financial Accounting for Decision Making
Year: 2
Status: C
Understanding how financial reports are presented and interpreted is fundamental in international business. This module aims to provide students with the analytic and communication skills to interpret financial reporting in order to make better decisions in the international business context.
Border and Customs Management and Practice
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides the student with a solid understanding of border and customs management. Particular attention is awarded to custom clearance, process, documentation and legislation. Operations management and supply chain practices are considered. The opportunity to construct an informative publication on a related area is provided. On completion of the module students will be equipped with the skills necessary to understand and appreciate the role that custom officials and border management personnel plays in securing land, sea and air jurisdictions and in cross-border relationship management.
Managing People and Work Across Cultures
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides you with an understanding of the contextual knowledge, cross cultural skills and multiple perspectives required to manage and work across borders and cultures in a changing global business environment. Learning will be by teaching, discussion and independent study.
Year three
Diploma in Professional Practice
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.
Study Abroad
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
The Diploma in International Academic Studies complements and extends the student's programme of study and provides the opportunity for each student to pursue specific learning objectives by studying in a different cultural and educational environment. It is a key facilitator in support global and cultural awareness and creating graduates who are ready to embrace international career opportunities more effectively.
Year four
Global Strategic Management
Year: 4
Status: C
This module is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts of business strategy particularly focusing on application within a global context. On successful completion, students will have studied the various components of the strategic management process, facilitating an in-depth understanding of strategy formulation, implementation and evaluation.
Data Analysis for International Business
Year: 4
Status: C
This module is designed to introduce the student to data management, analysis, visualisation, and reporting used in business and international business. The module provides student with the skills and knowledge to work with data and apply data analysis to make informed business decisions.
Contemporary Issues and Trends in International Business
Year: 4
Status: C
This module critically analyses contemporary key developments in international business through an application of international business theory, research, and practice. This module develops critical analysis and analytical thinking skills by integrating knowledge of the international business environment and by exposing students to both contemporary research topics in international business and to current, topical developments in international business practice.
International Trade Management
Year: 4
Status: C
The module provides students with an understanding of key concepts and theoretical underpinnings supporting international trade management. Topics of interest include: an understanding of the global environment supporting international trade management, trade compliance, statutes and enforcements, risk management and ethics in support of international trade management.
International Marketing in Cultural Contexts
Year: 4
Status: C
This module explores the complexity of forces that underpin the international marketing decisions made by organisations and the impact of cultural nuances at a national level on these choices. In particular, it aims to understand the impact of these forces on the activities of organizations and the nature of the decisions that organizations must take if they are to survive and prosper in dynamic international marketing environments. The module will focus on the national and global contexts and provide students with practical and academic knowledge where they will have an opportunity to showcase their ability to interpret, synthesise, apply and evaluate knowledge and understanding regarding international marketing decisions and choices. In addition, this module will allow students to become critical thinkers in this contemporary and growing business discipline and better understand the complexities, challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed, embraced and capitalised upon to support international business.
International Consulting and Research Project
Year: 4
Status: C
The International Consulting and Research Project is an applied module which will enhance the practical, professional and employability skills of students by requiring them to research and produce a 'live' internationally focused consultancy project for selected businesses. The module requires students to draw on relevant theories from previously studied course modules, and to apply these as directed, to produce new insights and ideas in the form of a group consultancy report and present key findings and recommendations to a selected panel of experts.
Standard entry conditions
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
A level
Grades CCC
Applied General Qualifications
Overall BTEC Extended Diploma award profile DMM (QCF)
Overall BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma with profile MMM
Irish Leaving Certificate
96 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of 4 subjects at Higher Level and 1 at Ordinary Level.
If not studying Maths at Higher Level then grade O5 in Ordinary Level Maths is required.
English grade O4 required if not taking at Higher Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency
Tariff point chart
Scottish Highers
Grades CCCCC
A minimum grade of C in Maths and C in English is required at Intermediate level if not studying at Higher Level.
Scottish Advanced Highers
Grades DDD with a minimum grade of C in Maths and C in English at Intermediate Level if not studying at Higher Level.
International Baccalaureate
At least 24 points including 12 at Higher Level
Access to Higher Education (HE)
Overall Access profile of 55% to include NICATS Maths
GCSE
GCSE pass in English Language and Maths at grade C or above (or equivalent).
Essential Skills Level 2 Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.
Essential Skills Level 2 Numeracy will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE Maths.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Exemptions and transferability
The majority of students enter this programme in Year 1 – Level 4. However applicants who provide evidence of previous relevant successful study may be considered for entry to level 5 of the programme. Exceptionally applicants may be considered for entry at Level 6. Transfer will normally be admitted with exemptions depending on prior accredited knowledge.
There is a facility for transfer to other undergraduate degree programmes depending upon the nature of the subject matter of the other degrees and academic achievement.
Students who transfer from another university can present module information. Ulster can consider giving them module exemptions on a like for like basis for prior studies.
Careers & opportunities
Career options
With a diverse range of topics and content covered from an international viewpoint your career opportunities will be wide ranging with the added benefit of a worldwide employment market.
International business graduates are always in demand from a wide range of sectors and employers. Perhaps you’ll become an international trade manager, financial analyst, global marketing manager or work inhuman resource management, for procurement in a large international corporation or provide key insights as a data analyst. No matter what you choose this degree could take you all over the world working with different cultures and in a variety of roles or helping local companies succeed on the global stage.
Another option would be to pursue postgraduate study and further develop your skills in the areas that interest you the most.
Work placement / study abroad
You will have the opportunity to choose a placement year or study abroad option in Year 3 for hands on experience that will boost your employment prospects.
This year will provide you with a great opportunity to apply the subjects you have studied in a 'real world' setting. Satisfactory completion of the placement year will lead to an additional award of the Diploma in Professional Practice or a Diploma in International Academic Studies if you choose to study abroad.
Fees and funding
Scholarships, awards and prizes
Manufacturing N.I. has sponsored an annual prize for the best performing student in final year. As a new course the number of awards and prizes will increase each year.
Student achievement on the BSc Hons International Business degree will be recognised by a number of awards and prizes.
Additional mandatory costs
Tuition fees and costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges), and normal living are a part of university life.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses we make every effort to highlight them. These may include residential visits, field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering) inoculations, security checks, computer equipment, uniforms, professional memberships etc.
We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free wifi is also available on each of the campuses.
There will be some additional costs to being a student which cannot be itemised and these will be different for each student. You may choose to purchase your own textbooks and course materials or prefer your own computer and software. Printing and binding may also be required. There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. Additional costs vary from course to course.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs as well as tuition fees.
Please contact the course team for more information.
Disclaimer
- The University endeavours to deliver courses and programmes of study in accordance with the description set out in this prospectus. The University’s prospectus is produced at the earliest possible date in order to provide maximum assistance to individuals considering applying for a course of study offered by the University. The University makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in the prospectus is accurate but it is possible that some changes will occur between the date of printing and the start of the academic year to which it relates. Please note that the University’s website is the most up-to-date source of information regarding courses and facilities and we strongly recommend that you always visit the website before making any commitments.
- Although reasonable steps are taken to provide the programmes and services described, the University cannot guarantee the provision of any course or facility and the University may make variations to the contents or methods of delivery of courses, discontinue, merge or combine courses and introduce new courses if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Such circumstances include (but are not limited to) industrial action, lack of demand, departure of key staff, changes in legislation or government policy including changes, if any, resulting from the UK departing the European Union, withdrawal or reduction of funding or other circumstances beyond the University’s reasonable control.
- If the University discontinues any courses, it will use its best endeavours to provide a suitable alternative course. In addition, courses may change during the course of study and in such circumstances the University will normally undertake a consultation process prior to any such changes being introduced and seek to ensure that no student is unreasonably prejudiced as a consequence of any such change.
- The University does not accept responsibility (other than through the negligence of the University, its staff or agents), for the consequences of any modification or cancellation of any course, or part of a course, offered by the University but will take into consideration the effects on individual students and seek to minimise the impact of such effects where reasonably practicable.
- The University cannot accept any liability for disruption to its provision of educational or other services caused by circumstances beyond its control, but the University will take all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to such services.
