BA (Hons) International Business & Management with foundation year and placement

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Bournemouth University

Program Overview

 

The BA (Hons) International Business & Management with Foundation Year and Placement at Bournemouth University is perfect for students who want to understand how business works on a global scale. It’s designed to give you the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience to thrive in an international business career.


Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (Year 0):
This year is all about getting you ready for university-level study. You’ll learn the basics of business and management, develop your academic and professional skills, and get hands-on experience through the Fusion Business Project, which lets you apply what you’ve learned in practical scenarios.

Year 1 (Level 4):
In your first year, you’ll dive deeper into how businesses operate. Modules like Managing People and Organisations show you how teams work, Marketing Principles introduces you to the world of customers and branding, and Financial and Management Accounting gives you the fundamentals of business finance.

Year 2 (Level 5):
This year focuses on strategy and operations. You’ll explore Strategic Management to understand how businesses plan for success, Operations Management to see how products and services are delivered, and Business Research Methods to sharpen your analytical skills.

Placement Year (Optional):
Spend a year working in a real business environment. This is your chance to put theory into practice, gain professional experience, and build your network before you graduate.

Final Year (Level 6):
The last year brings everything together. You’ll study International Business Strategy and the Global Business Environment, preparing you to tackle challenges in international markets. Plus, the Dissertation lets you research a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your expertise.


Focus Areas

International Business Strategy, Global Operations, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Business Research


Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, you’ll have strong skills in strategic thinking, decision-making, cross-cultural communication, and business research — all of which are highly valued by global employers.


Professional Alignment

The program meets professional standards and is designed with industry relevance in mind, ensuring what you learn matches what employers are looking for.


Reputation

Bournemouth University is well-known for producing graduates who go on to exciting and successful careers worldwide. With its focus on practical experience and industry connections, this program really helps you stand out in the job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

 

At Bournemouth University, the BA (Hons) International Business & Management with Foundation Year and Placement isn’t just about learning from textbooks — it’s about stepping into the world of international business from day one. You’ll get plenty of chances to apply what you learn in real-world settings, work alongside peers on practical projects, and even spend a year working in a professional business environment. The program combines modern facilities, industry connections, and hands-on learning to help you build confidence, skills, and a competitive edge for your future career.

Some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience include:

  • Professional Placement Year: Spend up to a year working in a real business, gaining invaluable experience and insights into how companies operate globally.

  • Collaborative Group Projects: Work with fellow students on assignments that mirror real business challenges, helping you develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • Industry Guest Lectures and Seminars: Learn directly from professionals and expand your network in the business world.

  • Business Simulation Exercises: Take part in interactive scenarios where you make business decisions and see the outcomes in a safe learning environment.

  • Access to Business Resources and Databases: Use industry-standard tools and research platforms to support your projects and studies.

  • Field Trips to International Business Hubs: Visit real companies and business centers to see how international business operates firsthand.

  • Dedicated Business Labs: Explore ideas and practice skills in spaces designed for business learning, equipped with the latest technology.

  • Comprehensive Library Services: Take advantage of the university’s extensive collection of journals, books, and online resources to support your studies.

These experiences ensure that by the time you graduate, you’re not just ready with theory — you’ll have the practical skills, confidence, and professional insight to step straight into a career in international business.

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

Graduating from the BA (Hons) International Business & Management program at Bournemouth University opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths. You’ll leave with the knowledge, practical experience, and confidence to step into roles that span global business, strategy, and management. Many alumni go on to positions such as International Marketing Manager, Global Operations Analyst, Business Development Executive, or Supply Chain Coordinator.

Your career journey is supported every step of the way:

  • MyCareerHub: The university’s dedicated career service helps you find jobs, internships, and attend business-focused career events tailored to your ambitions.

  • Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) provide opportunities to gain professional qualifications alongside your degree.

  • Graduate Employability: A strong proportion of BU graduates find employment or pursue further studies within 15 months, giving you a head start in the competitive job market.

  • Global Accreditation: The program is internationally recognized and accredited, ensuring your degree is respected worldwide and adds long-term value to your career.

These resources, combined with the optional placement year, ensure you graduate not just with knowledge, but with real-world skills and professional confidence.

Further Academic Progression:

After finishing your degree, there are several ways to continue building your expertise:

  • Postgraduate Studies: You could pursue a master’s in areas like International Management, Marketing, or Business Analytics.

  • Professional Certifications: Enhance your career prospects with certifications from bodies such as CIM or the Institute of Directors (IoD).

  • Doctoral Programs: For those interested in research, a PhD in Business or Management is an option.

These pathways let you deepen your knowledge, specialize in areas you’re passionate about, and continue growing your career on a global scale.

Program Key Stats

£19,635
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

EEE - DDD
3.0
12 - 18
65

NA
NA
5.5
46

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • International Business Analyst
  • Global Marketing Manager
  • Supply Chain Coordinator
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Business Development Executive
  • Management Consultant
  • International Trade Advisor
  • Operations Manager
  • Project Manager
  • Account Manager
  • Strategic Planner
  • Entrepreneur
  • Export/Import Coordinator
  • Financial Analyst
  • Corporate Communications Officer

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