International Business BA (Hons) with foundation year and work placement

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) International Business at the University of Portsmouth is perfect for students who want to build a global career in business. You’ll explore key areas like marketing, operations, and finance, while gaining real-world experience through industry placements and opportunities to study abroad.

Curriculum Structure:

Foundation Year:
This year lays the groundwork for your business journey. You’ll get to grips with essential subjects such as Marketing Principles and Practice, Business Accounting, and Managing People in Organisations, giving you a solid understanding of how businesses operate and preparing you for the more advanced topics ahead.

Year 1:
Here, you’ll start exploring business in depth. Modules like Business Analysis and Decision Making, Business Venturing, and Leadership, Ethics, Governance, and Sustainability will help you develop critical thinking and a practical understanding of how businesses function. You’ll also focus on enhancing your employability skills, setting you up for success in the future.

Year 2 (Study Abroad):
This year is all about gaining international experience. You can study at a partner university in countries like the USA, China, Japan, Australia, or across Europe. Experiencing business in a different culture will broaden your perspective and deepen your understanding of global markets.

Year 3 (Industry Placement):
Here, you have the option to take a paid placement in a real company. Working in the industry allows you to apply your knowledge, build professional skills, and make valuable contacts — giving you a head start when you graduate.

Year 4 (Final Year):
In your final year back at Portsmouth, you’ll focus on advanced business topics such as Strategic Management, Transformative Marketing, and International Financial Management. You’ll also complete an Independent Study Project, where you can research a topic that excites you, showcasing your expertise and analytical skills.

Focus Areas: Marketing, Operations, Accounting, Leadership, Sustainability, Global Business Strategy

Learning Outcomes: Strategic Thinking, Cross-Cultural Communication, Global Business Acumen, Leadership Skills, Research Proficiency

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Portsmouth is well-known for prioritizing employability, with a high percentage of graduates securing jobs or further study within six months of finishing their degree.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Portsmouth, studying BA (Hons) International Business isn’t just about theory — it’s about doing. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings, develop practical skills, and experience business as it really happens. The university provides modern facilities, industry-standard tools, and international experiences to make sure you’re ready for a global career.

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

  • Study Abroad Opportunities: Spend time at partner universities around the world and see business from a global perspective.

  • Industry Placements: Take an optional paid placement to get real work experience and build your professional network.

  • Business Simulation Suite: Practice decision-making in a realistic boardroom environment.

  • Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) Rooms: Collaborate on group projects in tech-enabled classrooms designed for interactive learning.

  • Bloomberg Suite: Use professional financial software to analyze markets and develop business insights.

  • Dedicated Business and Law Library: Access a wealth of books, journals, and online resources specifically for business students.

  • Collaborative Workspaces: Work on team projects, presentations, and case studies in spaces built for creativity and teamwork.

  • Research Institutes: Get involved with research initiatives that link academic knowledge with real industry challenges.

These experiences are designed to help you develop practical skills, confidence, and a professional mindset — so when you graduate, you’ll be ready to step straight into the business world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BA (Hons) International Business at the University of Portsmouth leave with the confidence, skills, and international experience to thrive in the global business world. Many go on to exciting roles such as Business Development Manager, Product Manager, Market Analyst, or Customer Accounts Manager. With hands-on experience, industry placements, and global exposure, you’ll be ready to make your mark in a variety of business sectors:

University Support and Industry Connections:

  • Careers and Employability Service: Get one-on-one guidance, CV workshops, mock interviews, and access to job listings tailored for business students.

  • Industry Placements: Gain real-world experience, build professional networks, and improve your employability while earning during your placement year.

  • Study Abroad Programs: Experience business practices in different cultures and develop a truly global perspective.

  • Accreditations: The program’s AACSB and CMI recognition adds long-term value to your degree, boosting credibility with employers.

Graduate Outcomes:

  • Around 93% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of finishing the course.

  • Alumni work in leading companies across the UK and internationally, leveraging their degree, placement experience, and professional skills.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies with programs like the MSc International Business and Management, or specialize in areas such as international marketing, global supply chain management, or finance. Additional professional development — including workshops, certifications, or industry conferences — can help you stay ahead in a fast-moving business environment.

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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