BA (Hons) International Business Communication
- UCAS code: N121
- Mode of study: Full time
- Duration: 3 years
- Entry requirements 2013: For year 1 entry applicants require successful completion of 1 year of HE study plus English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 5.5 with no component score less than 5.5, or equivalent. For year 2 entry applicants require successful completion of 2 years of HE study plus English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 5.5 with no component score less than 5.5, or equivalent. For year 3 entry applicants require successful completion of 3 years of HE study plus English language proficiency at a minimum IELTS band 6.0 with no component score less than 5.5, or equivalent.
- Please see details of the range of other qualifications that will also be considered on the 'Entry Requirements' tab below. Please do contact us for advice on other qualifications that aren't listed here.
Find out more:
Tel: +44 (0)23 9284 8299
Email: humanities.admissions@port.ac.uk
Department: School of Languages and Area Studies (SLAS)
This course is only available to International applicants whose first language is not English.
Course overview
This degree programme is for non-native speakers of English only. The general aim of the BA (Hons) International Business Communication is to enable learners to communicate effectively in English in the field of international business. It is a three- year programme, but students can enter at the appropriate stage if they have appropriate prior learning.
English is the language of global business. At the end of the last century, there were roughly 200 million people who had a realistic chance of becoming part of the 'global village'. By 2005, 3000 million people were within reach of their global dream. Within this environment, leadership and management are important, and communication in English across national boundaries is vital. In order to communicate internationally, we also need cultural understanding and awareness. The BA (Hons) International Business Communication is designed to prepare you for these realities.
At the end of the course you will be able to:
- communicate information, ideas and arguments orally, virtually and in writing in English in a multi-cultural environment
- effectively use analytical, problem-solving skills and decision-making skills in multi-national groups
- work autonomously and in groups for specific business purposes
- effectively communicate with people from the world of business
- use English for specific and general business purposes
- effectively use IT skills
Course content
Year one
- English Language Grade 4
- Multimedia Listening
- Business Communication 1
- Introduction To International Business & Trade
- Studying At University
- Developing Research Skills
Year two
- English Language Grade 5
- Professional Communication For Business
- Language Of Human Resource Management
- Marketing & Communication
- Options including:
- British Cultural Studies
- Business Communication 2
- Business & Markets In A Global Environment (FHEQ 5)
- Language
Year three
- Project
- English Language Grade 6
- Business Communication 3
- Language Of Marketing & Finance
- Language Of Interpersonal Communication Across Cultures
- Options including:
- Translation Theory & Practice
- Intercultural Perspectives On Communication
- Managing Across Cultures (FHEQ 6)
- Understanding Britain Today
- Business & Markets In Global Environment (FHEQ 6)
Teaching and assessment
Our academic year begins in October and finishes in June.
Your classes may be in one of our state-of-the-art lecture theatres, one of our IT suites or digital multimedia language laboratories.
You may discuss and develop ideas in a seminar group or develop your language skills in a language class. Part of our approach is to develop independent learners, so that you can take responsibility for your academic and intellectual development with the support of your tutors.
To help you do this, tutors have developed a range of teaching and learning resources that can be used in class and for independent study.
Assessment strategies will not only test your knowledge of the subject, but also help you develop a range of skills that will be invaluable when you finish your degree and start work.
You may have in-class tests or final examinations, and you may be asked to give presentations or work on projects, either individually or as part of a team, giving you the opportunity to refine your presentational, team-working, time management and research skills.
You will submit essays or other types of written coursework, helping to enhance your analytical and critical skills as well as your ability to process large amounts of information and perfect your writing skills. All of these skills are not only necessary for you to do well in your studies with us, but also prepare you for your future in the world of work.
Here at Portsmouth we want you to get the most you can out of your education. We have worked to ensure that the teaching and learning resources are there for you to take full advantage of. Through the teaching, learning and assessment activities that you experience during your degree studies, you will develop your own, effective learning strategies that will last a lifetime.
Career prospects
English is increasingly the language of international business and trade. The combination of subject knowledge and good English language skills we develop on this course will give you a distinct advantage in the international job market.
There are many jobs available for you in business, trade, public service, finance, marketing, management, retailing and the leisure industry. Some of our most successful graduates have even started their own businesses and many go on to postgraduate study, either here in Portsmouth or elsewhere.
Facilities and features
You will have access to our highly qualified and experienced team of lecturers, as well as our very well resourced learning environment. We have:
- a suite of well equipped lecture theatres and seminar rooms
- multimedia digital classrooms
- IT suites, with access to over 150 computers
- editing suite and multimedia development unit
- satellite receivers providing live broadcasts in eight languages, as well as English