An exciting degree to prepare you for a global and culturally diverse career.
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 degree will give you the competitive edge and the expertise to succeed at an international level.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
In this section
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.
Diploma in Professional Practice DPP
Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS
Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI
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.
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 your voice 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 and develop 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.
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.
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:
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 near the start date and may be subject to 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 of attendance will often 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 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 Masters 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 methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be via one method or a combination e.g. examination and coursework . 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 four learning outcomes, and no more than two 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.
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 Masters 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 Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures correct for academic year 2019-2020.
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 (20%) or Lecturers (55%).
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) by Advanced HE - 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 2021-2022.
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.
In this section
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.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides students with an appreciation of the nature, scope and breadth of the fundamental concepts of marketing.
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.
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.
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.
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: 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In this section
Grades CCC
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of DMM
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 Suite)
Award profile of MMM
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade C
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2016 Suite)
Award profile of MM plus A Level Grade C
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Introductory Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of M plus A Level Grades CC
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Certificate (2016 Suite)
Award profile of M plus A Level Grades CC
96 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level) to include English and Maths at H6 if studied at Higher level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.
Grades CCCCC
English and Maths required at Standard Grade 1, 2 or 3.
Grades DDD
English and Maths required at Standard Grade 1, 2 or 3.
Overall profile is minimum 24 points (including 12 at higher level)
Overall profile of 55% (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course)
To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 40% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.
Overall profile of 45 credits at merit (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course)
To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 40% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.
For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language and Mathematics, (or equivalent).
Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.
Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE Maths.
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 for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Acceptable alternative qualifications include:
Pass HND with overall Merit to include 15 distinctions in level 5 credits.
Pass HNC with overall Merit to include 45 distinctions in level 4 credits.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard as recognised by the University.
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.
In this section
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.
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.
2024/25 Fees
Fees for entry in 2024/25 have not yet been set. See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2023/24 entry.
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.
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. 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 Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
