4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The BA (Hons) International Business & Management with Placement Year at Bournemouth University is perfect for anyone who wants to build a career in global business. It combines practical skills with academic learning, helping you understand how international businesses operate while giving you real-world experience.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Business
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the basics of business and management. You’ll explore modules like Developing Management Competencies, Global Business Environment, and Fundamentals of Marketing, which will help you understand how businesses work, how people behave in organizations, and how to communicate with customers effectively. You’ll also get hands-on experience through Business Simulation and learn about ethical practices in Organisational Behaviour and Responsible Management.
Year 2: Going Deeper
The second year builds on what you’ve learned, focusing on more advanced concepts. You’ll study Strategic Management, Fundamentals of HRM, and Globally Responsible Business Practice, giving you insights into strategy, people management, and sustainable business practices. You can also choose optional modules like Global Operations Management, Project Management, or Branding and Integrated Communications to tailor the course to your interests.
Year 3: Placement Year
This is your chance to put theory into practice with a 30-week full-time placement in a real business. You’ll gain invaluable work experience, build professional networks, and develop skills that will make you highly employable after graduation.
Year 4: Specialisation and Research
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics and a major project. Modules like International Management, Organisational Leadership, and Global Strategic Marketing help you refine your expertise, while your project—whether a Dissertation, Consultancy Project, or Applied Business Project—gives you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about in depth.
Focus Areas
Global business strategy, international marketing, human resource management, sustainable business practices
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this program, you will:
Understand how international businesses operate and compete globally
Develop strategic thinking and management skills
Gain real-world experience through a placement year
Build research and problem-solving skills that employers value
Professional Alignment
The program is professionally recognised by organisations such as:
Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM)
Institute of Directors (IoD)
Reputation and Employability
Bournemouth University is known for putting employability first. With the placement year and practical learning approach, graduates are well-prepared for roles in global business, with many securing employment shortly after graduation.
At Bournemouth University, learning isn’t just about lectures and textbooks – it’s about doing, experiencing, and applying what you’ve learned in real-world business settings. This program gives you plenty of opportunities to gain practical skills, work on real projects, and build a professional network even before you graduate. From placements to simulations, every aspect is designed to help you step confidently into a global business career.
Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience:
Placement Year: A 30-week full-time placement gives you real work experience in a business environment, helping you develop professional skills and build industry connections.
Industry Engagement: Learn from guest lectures, workshops, and live projects with real businesses, giving you insight into current practices and trends.
Business Simulations: Use dedicated labs and software to make strategic decisions in realistic business scenarios, honing your problem-solving and leadership skills.
Research Projects: Take on projects that tackle real business challenges, allowing you to develop analytical thinking and practical solutions.
Global Opportunities: Optional study abroad or international placement opportunities expand your understanding of global business practices.
Facilities That Bring Learning to Life:
Executive Business Centre: Modern classrooms and collaborative spaces for group work, presentations, and interactive learning.
MyCareerHub: An online hub connecting you to career resources, placement opportunities, and employers.
Business Simulation Labs: Equipped with software to practice decision-making in realistic business environments.
Research Centres: Access to specialised business and management research, supporting both coursework and independent study.
Library Resources: Extensive business collections, databases, and study materials to support all your learning and research needs.
Graduates from the BA (Hons) International Business & Management with Placement Year leave Bournemouth University ready to step confidently into the global business world. With a mix of practical experience, industry connections, and academic knowledge, you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of roles. Many alumni go on to exciting careers such as International Marketing Manager, Global Supply Chain Coordinator, Business Development Executive, or Human Resources Manager.
Here’s how the program and the university support your career journey:
MyCareerHub: An online platform where you can explore job listings, internships, and get expert career advice.
Placements Team: Helps you secure meaningful work placements with trusted employers, giving you invaluable real-world experience.
Career Workshops: Sessions on CV writing, interview techniques, and networking to make you stand out to employers.
Graduate Success: Around 90% of business graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing their degree, with a median salary of £35,000.
Industry Partnerships: Links with organisations like the Institute of Directors (IoD), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), and AACSB-accredited programs ensure your learning is aligned with industry expectations.
Professional Accreditations: The program is recognised by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and CIM, giving your qualifications extra credibility in the job market.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you have plenty of options to keep advancing your education and career:
Master’s Degrees: Specialise in areas like International Business, Marketing, or HR Management.
Professional Certifications: Gain additional credentials through CMI or CIM to boost your career prospects.
Doctoral Studies: Engage in research in business and management to pursue an academic or consultancy career.
These pathways give you the flexibility to build on your degree and take your career wherever you want it to go.
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