International Business BA (Hons) with foundation year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

 

If you’re looking to kickstart a career in global business, the BA (Hons) International Business with a foundation year at the University of Portsmouth could be the perfect fit. This program not only builds your understanding of business fundamentals but also prepares you to thrive in international markets, giving you the skills and confidence to succeed anywhere in the world.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundation Year

Your first year lays the groundwork for everything to come. You’ll explore the basics of business, including marketing, accounting, and operations, while building essential skills in communication and problem-solving. Think of it as your launchpad into the world of international business.

Year 2: International Exposure

In your second year, the adventure really begins! You’ll have the chance to study abroad at one of Portsmouth’s partner universities in countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, China, South Korea, Thailand, or the USA. Alongside your studies, you’ll experience different cultures, gain a global perspective, and see first-hand how businesses operate around the world.

Year 3: Advanced Business Studies

Back from your year abroad, you’ll dive deeper into international business topics. Modules like Strategic Management, Globalization, and Sustainability help you understand the bigger picture and start thinking strategically. This year lets you tailor your learning to what excites you most and sets you up for real-world business challenges.

Year 4: Professional Development and Final Project

Your final year is all about putting theory into practice. You’ll tackle an independent project that lets you solve real business problems, and you’ll polish the professional skills employers are looking for. By the end, you’ll have a strong portfolio, practical experience, and the confidence to step straight into a career in international business.


Focus Areas

Global Business Strategy, Cross-Cultural Management, International Marketing, Sustainable Business Practices, Strategic Leadership


Learning Outcomes

By the time you graduate, you’ll be able to:

  • Understand and navigate international business environments.

  • Think strategically and solve complex business challenges.

  • Communicate and work effectively across cultures.

  • Lead projects and teams in a professional setting.


Professional Alignment

This program is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), meaning your studies align with industry standards and boost your employability. There’s also an option for a placement year, giving you real-world experience that employers value.


Reputation and Employability

Portsmouth is well-known for helping students turn their degrees into careers. Graduates go on to work in finance, marketing, management, and more, often in global roles thanks to the program’s strong focus on practical experience and international exposure.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Portsmouth, studying International Business isn’t just about lectures and textbooks – it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for the real world. From state-of-the-art facilities to international opportunities, the program is designed so you can apply what you learn, work on real business challenges, and develop skills that employers value.

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

  • Study Abroad Opportunities: Spend a term or even a full year at a partner university in Europe, Asia, North America, or Australia. You’ll earn credits while immersing yourself in a new culture and experiencing business from a global perspective.

  • Business Simulation Suite: Step into a realistic boardroom environment to practice decision-making, strategic thinking, and teamwork through simulated business scenarios.

  • Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) Rooms: Collaborate on projects and case studies using advanced digital tools in spaces designed for interactive, team-based learning.

  • Bloomberg Suite Access: Get hands-on experience with industry-standard financial software for market research and financial analysis.

  • Professional Development Modules: Build essential skills like leadership, communication, and project management to prepare for international careers.

  • Dual Degree Option: Take your qualifications even further with the chance to earn a second degree from a partner institution, boosting your employability.

These experiences, combined with Portsmouth’s excellent facilities and support, make sure you graduate not just with a degree, but with confidence, practical skills, and a global outlook.

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

 

Graduating from the BA (Hons) International Business program at Portsmouth opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths. With the skills and experience you’ll gain – from international study opportunities to hands-on projects – you’ll be ready for roles such as International Marketing Manager, Global Supply Chain Coordinator, International Business Consultant, or Export Sales Manager. These positions let you make an impact in global companies and work across borders, combining strategic thinking with practical business knowledge.

Here’s how Portsmouth supports you on that journey:

  • Careers and Employment Service: Get personalised advice, support with job searches, and access to exclusive graduate opportunities.

  • Business Consultancy Projects: Work on real business challenges with companies, gaining hands-on experience and boosting your employability.

  • Placement Year Opportunities: A year-long work placement lets you apply your skills in a professional setting, giving you a competitive edge.

  • Graduate Outcomes: Around 9 in 10 Portsmouth graduates are in work or further study within months of finishing their degree.

  • Industry Partnerships & Accreditations: Benefit from collaborations with global companies and the program’s CMI accreditation, which gives your degree extra professional value.

  • Dual Degree Option: Earn an additional qualification from a partner university, enhancing your credentials and career prospects.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, there are plenty of options:

  • MSc International Business and Management – perfect if you want to develop advanced leadership and management skills in a global context.

  • MBA International – for students looking to focus on strategic management and executive-level skills.

  • PhD in Business – ideal if you’re interested in research or teaching at university level.

With these opportunities, you’re not just graduating with a degree – you’re stepping into a global career with confidence, experience, and options.

 

Program Key Stats

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


Eligibility Criteria

2.0
24
50

NA
NA
5.5
72

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Business Development Manager
  • Management Consultant
  • International Marketing Executive
  • Operations Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Entrepreneur / Start-up Founder
  • Export/Import Manager
  • Account Manager
  • Strategy Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Brand Manager
  • Corporate Sustainability Officer

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