International Business with Mandarin, MA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The MA in International Business and Mandarin is designed to develop the leaders of the future. This programme provides students with a broad understanding of International Business along with the study of a language and is designed to equip you to be successful, with an exceptio

The MA in International Business with Mandarin is a dynamic four-year degree that combines comprehensive business education with immersive language training. This program is ideal for students aiming to excel in global business environments, particularly those interested in engaging with China and other Mandarin-speaking regions.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:

Students are introduced to the fundamentals of business through courses such as Business Economics, Financial Accounting, and Organisational Behaviour. Concurrently, they begin their Mandarin language studies, focusing on foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Year 2:

The business curriculum expands to include modules like Marketing Principles, Business Law, and Human Resource Management. Mandarin language instruction progresses to intermediate levels, enhancing students' ability to communicate in both business and social contexts.

Year 3:

This year emphasizes strategic management and international business practices, with courses such as International Business Strategy and Global Marketing. Mandarin studies advance to higher proficiency, enabling students to engage in more complex conversations and understand cultural nuances.

Year 4:

The final year focuses on specialized topics like International Trade and Investment and Cross-Cultural Management. Students undertake a dissertation project that integrates their business knowledge and Mandarin language skills, preparing them for professional roles in international settings.

Focus Areas

International Business, Mandarin Language, Cross-Cultural Communication, Global Strategy, Business Ethics

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will possess a robust understanding of international business principles, advanced proficiency in Mandarin, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural business environments effectively.

Professional Alignment

The program is designed to align with global business standards, preparing students for careers in multinational corporations, international trade, and diplomatic services.

Reputation

The University of Aberdeen is renowned for its strong employability outcomes, with graduates securing positions in leading organizations worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Aberdeen, the MA in International Business with Mandarin isn’t just about lectures — it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for a real global career. From working on live business projects to practicing Mandarin in immersive settings, you’ll develop practical skills, build confidence, and gain insights that textbooks alone can’t provide. The program combines state-of-the-art facilities, supportive teaching, and international opportunities to make learning truly dynamic:

Study Abroad Opportunities: Spend a semester or year at one of our partner universities worldwide, gaining first-hand cultural experience and expanding your global perspective.
Mandarin Language Courses via the Confucius Institute: Learn the language in a fully immersive environment while exploring Chinese culture, business etiquette, and communication styles.
Business Simulation Labs: Apply what you’ve learned in interactive business scenarios and simulations, bridging theory and practice in a controlled, professional setting.
Internships and Industry Placements: Tap into Aberdeen’s strong links with businesses to gain real-world experience and start building your professional network before graduation.
Group Projects and Presentations: Collaborate with classmates on business challenges, enhancing teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
Research Opportunities: Access dedicated research spaces and resources, allowing you to explore topics that interest you and sharpen your analytical thinking.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Business with Mandarin leave Aberdeen with a powerful combination of business expertise and Mandarin language skills, ready to step confidently into the global marketplace. This program opens doors to a variety of exciting careers, from analyzing international markets to managing marketing campaigns for Mandarin-speaking regions. Typical roles include:

International Business Analyst – interpreting global market trends and helping companies expand internationally.
Mandarin Language Consultant – bridging communication between businesses and Mandarin-speaking partners.
Global Marketing Manager – designing and implementing marketing strategies for international audiences.
Trade Relations Officer – supporting trade and partnerships between countries, particularly in Mandarin-speaking markets.

Aberdeen supports students every step of the way:

Career Services – personalized guidance, CV workshops, and interview coaching to help you land the right role.
Internship Opportunities – connections with industry partners for hands-on experience.
Networking Events – meet alumni and professionals in your field to build your network.

The results speak for themselves: 97.9% of Aberdeen graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months, giving you strong confidence in your career prospects. Industry partnerships and program accreditation (including EQUIS standards) add long-term value to your degree, ensuring your skills are recognized worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:

After graduating, you can continue to build your expertise through postgraduate programs, such as the MSc in International Business Management or the MSc in Teaching Chinese in a Global Context. Professional certifications in areas like project management or digital marketing can also complement your degree, giving you a competitive edge for senior roles in international business.