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3 Years On Campus Joint-bachelors Program
University of DerbyThe International Relations and Business Management BA (Hons) at the University of Derby is perfect if you want to understand global politics while gaining solid business skills. This joint honours degree helps you think critically about international issues and equips you to make smart business decisions in a global context.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Level 4):
Your first year gives you a solid foundation in both areas. In International Relations, you'll explore Understanding Global Politics and Introduction to International Relations, helping you grasp how the world really works. Meanwhile, Business Management modules like Principles of Management and Organisational Behaviour introduce you to how businesses operate and what makes teams tick.
Year 2 (Level 5):
In your second year, you’ll dive deeper. International Relations covers International Political Economy and Global Security, so you can analyze complex global challenges. On the business side, Marketing Management and Financial Management help you understand how businesses attract customers and manage finances effectively.
Year 3 (Level 6):
The final year focuses on advanced learning and real-world application. You’ll study International Law and Diplomacy and Foreign Policy to sharpen your understanding of global rules and relationships. In Business Management, Strategic Management brings everything together, letting you tackle real business challenges with confidence.
Focus Areas
International Relations, Business Strategy, Global Economics, Political Analysis, Organisational Leadership
Learning Outcomes
Critical Thinking, Strategic Decision-Making, Cross-Cultural Communication, Policy Analysis, Ethical Leadership
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This program is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), giving your degree real-world recognition and helping you stand out to employers.
Reputation (Employability & Rankings)
The University of Derby is ranked in the top 20 UK universities for teaching quality by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. It also earned Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 and sits in the top 25 for overall student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2025.
At the University of Derby, the International Relations and Business Management BA (Hons) degree blends theory with hands-on experience. Through field trips, internships, and collaborative projects, students gain real insight into global business and international relations, applying what they learn in practical settings. This approach ensures you graduate ready to tackle real-world challenges with confidence.
Here’s how students get practical experience:
Overseas Field Trips: Students can visit cities such as Copenhagen, Vienna, and Dublin, seeing firsthand how international business operates and understanding global political landscapes.
Work Experience and Consultancy Projects: The program includes opportunities to work on real business challenges, giving you a chance to apply your learning in practical scenarios.
Optional Placement and Internship Opportunities: You can take a placement year or summer internship in the UK or abroad, gaining valuable work experience to boost employability.
Joint Projects with International Students: Collaborating with peers from around the world helps you develop teamwork and cross-cultural communication skills.
Access to Specialist Facilities: Students benefit from dedicated study spaces and resources that support both business management and international relations learning.
These experiences are designed to make your studies more engaging and meaningful, giving you skills and perspectives that employers value.
Graduates from the International Relations and Business Management BA (Hons) at the University of Derby leave ready to step into a variety of exciting careers. With expertise in both global politics and business strategy, you could find yourself working as an International Business Consultant, Policy Analyst, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, or even a Diplomatic Service Officer. These roles make the most of the interdisciplinary skills you’ll develop during your studies, preparing you to make a real impact in the professional world.
Here’s how the University supports your career journey:
Personal Academic Tutoring (PAT): Every student has a dedicated tutor to provide guidance and support throughout your degree.
Careers and Employment Service: Offers tailored advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to job opportunities.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) give students professional qualifications and networking opportunities.
Graduate Employment Rates: Around 96% of Business School graduates are employed or pursuing further study within six months of graduating.
Alumni Network: Connect with successful graduates for mentorship and career guidance.
Long-Term Accreditation Value
The CMI and CIMA accreditations mean your degree is recognized by employers and holds long-term professional value.
Graduation Outcomes
You’ll finish your degree ready to enter the workforce with confidence, equipped with practical skills, analytical thinking, and the global perspective employers value.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BA, there are plenty of options to continue your studies:
MSc Strategic Management: Focus on advanced leadership and strategic decision-making.
MSc International Relations: Deepen your understanding of global politics and diplomacy.
MBA Global: Gain comprehensive knowledge of global business practices and leadership.
These postgraduate opportunities allow you to specialize further and continue building a strong foundation for a successful career.
A-level - BBC equivalent to 112 UCAS Tariff Points.IB - 28 equivalent to 112 UCAS tariff points.IELTS - 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)India - Standard 12 - 65% overall.USA - High School Diploma or GED with a minimum GPA of 3.0, plus either SAT 1060/1600, ACT 23, or three AP subjects with scores of 3 or higherFirst year covers all areas; from year two, you can specialize in Analytics & Technology, Economics, Finance, or Supply Chain & Logistics.International Business ConsultantPolicy AnalystCorporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ManagerDiplomatic Service OfficerManagement ConsultantMarket Research AnalystInternational Project ManagerTrade and Export OfficerPublic Affairs SpecialistPolitical Risk AnalystBusiness Development ManagerNGO or International Organisation OfficerStrategic PlannerGovernment Relations AdvisorGlobal Supply Chain Coordinator
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