International Business and Languages BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

 

The BA (Hons) International Business and Languages at the University of Portsmouth is perfect if you’re excited about combining business skills with language and cultural understanding. It’s designed for students who want to work globally, giving you the chance to explore international business while becoming fluent in a foreign language.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building Your Foundations
In your first year, you’ll get a strong grounding in key business areas like marketing, accounting, and operations, while also starting your language studies. You’ll focus on grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills, laying the foundation for confidently using your language in real-world business situations.

Year 2: Going Global
The second year is all about putting your skills into practice. You’ll spend a year abroad at one of Portsmouth’s partner universities across Europe, Asia, North America, or Australia, deepening both your language skills and your understanding of how business works in different cultures. It’s an immersive experience that really brings your studies to life.

Year 3: Specialising and Preparing for Your Career
In your final year, you’ll tackle more advanced business topics, developing strategies and solutions for international business challenges. You’ll also apply your language skills to real-world scenarios and can choose an industrial placement to gain hands-on experience, giving you a head start in your career.


Focus Areas

International Business, Language Proficiency, Cross-Cultural Communication, Global Strategy, Marketing, Accounting, Operations, Leadership, Entrepreneurship


Learning Outcomes

  • Understand how international businesses operate and make decisions.

  • Achieve fluency in a foreign language for professional communication.

  • Build cultural awareness and adapt to diverse business environments.

  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  • Prepare for leadership and strategic roles in global organisations.


Professional Alignment

The course is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), so you’ll graduate with skills that employers value and a clear edge in the business world.


Reputation

Portsmouth is known for its strong focus on employability, with graduates highly sought after worldwide. The combination of practical experience, placements, and international exposure really helps you stand out.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

 

At the BA (Hons) International Business and Languages program, learning goes far beyond the classroom. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to put theory into practice, develop real-world skills, and experience what it’s like to work in international business while using your language skills in authentic settings. The University of Portsmouth provides fantastic facilities, digital tools, and support to make these experiences both practical and engaging.

Here’s how you’ll get hands-on experience:

  • Professional Placements – Optional placements with leading companies like L’Oréal, Bentley, or Bosch give you a real taste of working life and a chance to apply what you’ve learned.

  • Study Abroad Programs – Spend a year in a country where your chosen language is spoken, immersing yourself in the culture and strengthening your language fluency.

  • Digital Language Labs – Four state-of-the-art language labs with multimedia resources help you practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in your target language.

  • Business Consultancy Projects – Work on real-world business challenges, such as developing marketing strategies or analysing competitors, gaining practical consultancy experience.

  • Collaborative Group Projects – Team up with classmates to tackle business scenarios, enhancing your teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

  • Modern Business Facilities – Use spaces like the Business Simulation Suite and TEAL learning areas to practice real business scenarios in a supportive environment.

These opportunities make your learning dynamic, relevant, and directly connected to the global business world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

Graduates from the BA (Hons) International Business and Languages program leave Portsmouth with a powerful mix of business knowledge, language skills, and international experience, ready to step into a range of exciting careers. Many find themselves in roles such as Business Development Manager, Market Analyst, Customer Accounts Manager, or Bilingual Consultant. The combination of practical skills, study abroad experience, and professional placements really helps you stand out in the global job market.

Here’s how the program and the university support your career journey:

  • Graduate Employment Rates – Around 90% of Portsmouth graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating.

  • Professional Placement Year – Optional placements with companies like L’Oréal, Bentley, or Bosch give you hands-on experience before you graduate.

  • Industry Partnerships – Strong links with international businesses provide opportunities for internships and collaborative projects that connect you with the real world.

  • Accreditation – The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) accreditation adds real professional value to your degree.

  • Career Support Services – From CV workshops to interview prep and job fairs, the university helps you navigate your career path confidently.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you can choose to continue your studies or specialise further. Options include:

  • Postgraduate Degrees – Master’s programs in International Business, Marketing, Translation Studies, or related fields to deepen your expertise.

  • Dual Degrees – Study with partner institutions to gain additional qualifications and international exposure.

  • Professional Certifications – Boost your employability with certifications from bodies like CMI or ACCA, giving you an extra edge in management or finance roles.

These options give you flexibility to shape your career and open doors to exciting opportunities worldwide.

Program Key Stats

£17,200
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

BCC - BBC
3.0
27
70

NA
NA
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Business Development Manager
  • Market Analyst
  • Customer Accounts Manager
  • Bilingual Consultant
  • International Marketing Executive
  • Export/Import Coordinator
  • Global Project Manager
  • Translator/Interpreter
  • International Sales Executive
  • Multilingual Business Analyst
  • Supply Chain Coordinator
  • International Trade Specialist

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts