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BA (Hons) International Business with Japanese

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Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees: See below
Full details
UCAS code: N123
Institute code: H36
Study a language option
Find out more
Study abroad option
Work placement option
Find out more

Entry requirements

UCAS points A Level BTEC IB
112-120 BBC-BBB DMM-DDM 112-120

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and Mathematics
All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

UCAS points A Level BTEC Access Course Tariff IB Requirement
120 - 128 BBB - ABB DDM 120 - 128 points 120 - 128 points

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and Mathematics.
All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
Find out more about International Entry Requirements.
Professional accreditations

Our BA International Business is EFMD Accredited by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD). EFMD Accredited is an internationally recognised badge of programme quality with its strong focus on internationalisation, ethics and sustainability. We’re one of ten UK business schools with an EFMD Accredited course and one of only 92 schools worldwide (October 2020).
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UCAS points	A Level	BTEC	IB
112-120	BBC-BBB	DMM-DDM	112-120

UCAS points	A Level	BTEC	Access Course Tariff	IB Requirement
120 - 128	BBB - ABB	DDM	120 - 128 points	120 - 128 points

Why choose this course?

You’ll be supported in your studies and preparing for your future
Study for an internationally recognised EFMD accredited degree
Improve your employability with a language

If you want a career in international business and love to travel, this degree is ideal. The degree has 2 routes you can take, a three year route and a four year route and provides you with a number of study plans.

On the three year route, you will need to spend a minimum of one semester in year 2 at a partner institution in Europe, North America, Latin America, Australia, Africa, Middle East or Asia. Ideally, you will spend all of year two abroad on this route to really immerse yourself in a different culture. UK nationals who spend the year abroad pay a reduced tuition fee.

On the four year route, you will have the opportunity to spend one or two years studying, and working, in Europe, North America, Latin America, Australia, Africa, Middle East or Asia. Most of our courses offer the opportunity to study abroad for a year, but if this isn’t enough for you, don’t worry. Everyone on this course will study abroad in Year 3 (with no tuition fees to pay). However, as a bonus, you can also choose to spend Year 2 abroad (with reduced tuition fees for UK nationals). There’ll be opportunities for work placements too with an option to do a 12 month placement on the four year route if you have studied abroad in year 2. We have partnerships with over 100 universities and business schools around the world, so there are lots of choices.

This course reflects the growing need for managers of tomorrow to have the business and leadership skills, language competency and cultural awareness for success in today’s global business environment.

We’re one of eleven UK business schools with an EFMD Accredited course and one of only 96 schools worldwide (October 2021). The European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) is an internationally recognised badge of programme quality, with its strong focus on internationalisation, ethics and sustainability. You’ll also be joining a university that is recognised for a high standard of teaching and support.

We are part of the Transatlantic Business School Alliance (TABSA) and through this you will also have the opportunity to gain a dual degree with one of our TABSA partners by spending tow years at the partner institute.

You’ll also be able to study a language alongside. We offer five languages: French, German, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. You can start a new language or continue your study of a language. If you select to take a language through the whole of the degree, it will be reflected in your degree title.

Find out more about studying a language with this course.

What's the course about?

Study plan overview – Three-year programme

Year 1: University of Hertfordshire

Year 2: Study abroad in English (Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia or Australia). Minimum study abroad of one semester required and ideally you will be away for the whole year.

Year 3: University of Hertfordshire

Study plan overview - Four-year programme

Year 1: University of Hertfordshire

Year 2: University of Hertfordshire or Study abroad in English (Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, Australia) for one or two semesters.

Year 3: Study abroad with the option of a work placement (Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Australia) or a year-long placement if you have studied abroad in Year 2. The work placements can also be in the UK, in internationally facing roles and would need to be approved by the placements team.

Year 4: University of Hertfordshire

In your first year, you’ll start your studies at the University of Hertfordshire.  Your core modules will be Marketing, Economics, Accounting and Human Resources. You’ll learn regional consumer patterns that influence how companies decide to advertise and digitally communicate to their audience. Explore how politics and levels of infrastructure, such as transport, can affect global economic development. If you decide to, you can pick up a language during this year.  

In your second year, you can stay at the University of Hertfordshire or study at one of our partner universities in English taking similar subjects. In the four-year route you have a choice to study at a partner university, whilst in the three-year route you must study at a partner university for at least one semester. The programme team at Hertfordshire will support you in your choice of modules at the partner university. Alternatively, you may decide to pursue a dual degree and go to one of our TABSA partners in Spain, Germany, France or the USA for two years and complete with two degrees.

Here there’s a stronger international focus of the business disciplines. You’ll explore geographic influences on international relations in geopolitics and gain an international insight on global employment laws, performance and people management in HR and finance. You’ll also explore economics at an international level and get a better understanding of our own and the European market.  

You’ll start taking your learning into your own hands. You can choose to continue with your language if you want and you have a choice of optional modules. You can dip into Exploring Business Ethics, learn about project management or learn about Cross Cultural Management.

Students on the four-year route will all be abroad in your third year. You can shape your learning through study or practice too. This means you can study for one semester at one of our partner universities, then do a placement. Or you can spend the entire year studying abroad. This can be at one university, or you can experience two. Wherever you go, they’ll teach you in English. However, you can challenge your language skills and study some of your modules in their native language. The great part about this year is that you don’t pay tuition fees to us or the university that you go to.  You’ll be learning about different cultures. You’ll build your international networks and get the contacts you need, should you decide to start your career abroad. If you have studied abroad in your second year, you will be able to undertake a year-long placement in your third year.

On both the three-year and four-year programmes your final year will be at the University of Hertfordshire. Your core modules will be Contemporary Issues in Ethics, Business and Sustainability, International Strategic Leadership, Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation. You’ll choose the other half of your programme from a wide variety of business modules offering a strong global focus, including in marketing, HR, finance, management systems and economics. You can also continue to study a language and can choose to do a dissertation You’re able to tailor your final year to match your own interests and career aspirations.  

Please keep in mind, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we will need to consider government guidelines regarding travel at the time you reach your second and third year.  

Study a language

At Hertfordshire Business School there are a lot of opportunities to study a modern language as part of your degree alongside another subject. Your chosen language will comprise 25% of your studies and will be listed on your degree certificate. This course will develop language and communication skills, and cultural insights into the countries of the language studied. The course will also develop many other transferrable skills to boost your employability prospects, such as time management and organisation; resilience; cultural understanding; working both independently and as part of a team.

Your main campus is de Havilland   

You’ll share this campus with students from business, law, sport, education, and humanities subjects. The student housing is close to our Sports Village which includes a gym, swimming pool and climbing wall. You can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner in our on-campus restaurant or bar (in the newly built Enterprise Hub) on days you don’t feel like cooking. You can also use the common room to play pool, video games or just to hang out with friends.  Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.  

What will I study?

You'll normally study four 15 credit modules in each semester and your contact time varies between modules. Usually, you’ll have two sessions per week for each module, a one-hour lecture following by a one-hour seminar/tutorial. Typically, a new topic or theory will be introduced in each lecture and will be followed up with class discussion and feedback in the subsequent seminar. In addition, as part of your study time, you will be collaborating with your peers on tasks and group assignments. Module leaders also offer weekly drop-in and feedback sessions, usually 2 x 1 hours per module as well as revision sessions.

The University’s online learning environment means you can access all your course resources, literature and timetables from anywhere in the world.

Usually, assessment is split between coursework and examinations. The style of coursework can vary from presentations to business reports or essays depending on the taught topics.

Degree programmes are structured into levels, 4, 5 and 6.  These correspond to your first, second and fourth which is your final year. In addition, you will have access to a zero-credit module in the first year, which focusses on developing your academic skills.

Level 0

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Academic Skills	0 Credits	Compulsory
The aim is to provide the opportunity for students to develop and apply a range of academic skills, which typically include personal organisation and self-management, independent research, analysis, evaluation, writing and presentation. It is flexible learning so it can be taken in any semester. The intended outcome is to enhance students' skills so that they can improve their university study and related work, to meet organisational and academic needs, now and in the future.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
People and Organisations	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to provide students an introduction to the key concepts in human resource management and behaviour in contemporary organisations. It will consider the micro context of human resource management, performance and development, equality and diversity and international human resource management, predominantly taking an organisational perspective but drawing on other disciplinary approaches where applicable. Students will also explore theories and models related to learning, motivation, teamwork and individual behaviour.
Economics for International Business	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to enable students to understand the economic context of modern business by introducing and developing an appreciation of the utility of economic approaches in studying the business environment. The basic tools and approaches which economists use; demand and supply and industry analysis, among others; will be introduced and applied to help understand the economic issues involved and the public policy which can be derived. Economics, of course, provides one of the key pillars of a solid education in business and this module represents some first steps in this direction as well as highlighting some of the major contemporary issues in our society and international business.
Marketing for International Business	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will first gain insight into the role and importance of marketing within organisations before considering global political, economic, social/cultural, and technological factors that present both opportunities and threats to marketing decision-making and outcomes. Students will then be taken through core marketing theories and concepts related to researching and developing a basic marketing plan for goods and services in local, regional, and global markets. Included will be discussions of how to segment markets to identify the customer groups that the organisation can best serve in a sustainable and ethical manner. Students will also look at the principles of consumer and business buying behaviour, how these may differ across the world and factors that influence buyers pre, during and post-purchasing. Positioning and branding will be discussed along with core elements of the marketing mix in a global context (product, price, promotion and place) and how to evaluate outcomes.
Accounting Aspects of Business	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides an introduction to accounting from the manager's viewpoint, providing an insight into the role of accounting as a decision-making tool for business and managerial decision-making.
Analysing and Managing Business Data	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce students to the tools and techniques necessary to uncover information in data sets in order to be able to make suitable decisions based on this information.
The Global Business Environment	15 Credits	Compulsory
Advances in technology, communications and transport are key forces behind globalisation. Decreasing costs and increasing ease of access mean increasing numbers of businesses are operating internationally and globally. This has resulted in a substantial increase in intercultural contact. To succeed in this context managers must have sensitivity to, and a critical understanding of, issues arising out of cultural difference. This includes the ability to manage in the diverse and complex contexts, including legal, political, ethical and sustainability issues. The module explores two interrelated areas. Firstly, debates surrounding globalisation are considered. Students will explore national similarities and differences, and their impact on business. This includes tensions between global standardisation and local differentiation and the extent to which the world is characterised by an increasing levelness and convergence or increasing disparity and divergence. Secondly, students will consider culture and cultural differences.
Japanese Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-4A	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates your competence in Japanese. You will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials.
Japanese Route B-4B	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend your competence in Japanese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. You will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Financial Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module introduces students to the main theory and practice of the financing of companies, the allocation and management of financial resources within a company and the rewarding of the providers of a company's financing. Specific topics covered include: the financial environment; sources of business finance; capital budgeting; cost of capital and capital structure; dividend policy; investment risk, portfolio theory and the capital asset pricing model; valuation of assets, shares and companies; mergers and acquisitions.
HRM for International Business	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module examines the development of Human Resource Management (HRM) as a business function and an academic field of study. Exploring the convergence and divergence of employment systems, the module aims to promote an understanding of the complexities of IHRM and the forces that frame it. It considers the patterns, practices and theories of HRM within a global context. This module promotes an understanding of the gap between rhetoric and reality of the concept of HRM and challenges the notion that people management practices can be readily transferred across national and international boundaries The content includes an analysis of differences between national and international HRM, examines structures and the ethical issues impinging upon international business in the field of employment.
Global Supply Chain Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
The objective of this module is to provide the students with knowledge on designing, implementing and operating efficient supply chains. Additionally it will introduce the challenges and issues of global supply chain management. The focus of the module concentrates on: introduction of supply chain management; development and strategies for global supply chain management; supply chain drivers; procurement, routing and scheduling; inventory management; green supply chain management; humanitarian supply chain management; measurement of supply chain management in global scale;.
Economics of the Global Economy	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explore key features of and trends within the global economy. It examines how economic concepts, tools and techniques can be usefully applied to the analysis of key issues therein. The role and limits of the nation−state within a global environment will be considered along with the traditional economic policy issues which are typically encountered, as well as how these are addressed. The role of markets and organisations will be explored, as well as other institutions which operate at a supra−national level e.g., EU, VVTO, and the extent to which they drive and shape economic activity. The impact of international trade and financial flows in the world economy will also feature. In doing so, the module will consider selected sectors and industries within the economy, including energy, thus enabling a particular focus on the sustainability of the modern economy in the face of climate change, and environmental degradation and depletion. This module will explore what concepts the economist can apply to these and other important issues.
Global Consumer Markets: Issues and Trends	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides an overview of the development of international consumer markets from historical, geographical and social perspectives, while focusing on emerging trends and consumer insights impacting the marketing of products and services. It will explore the ways in which the marketing mix elements and market research are adapted to the various international markets. In the module, students will consider a wide range of cross"cultural marketing issues, including international business customs, negotiating styles, consumer brand loyalty, price sensitivity, consumer satisfaction (and dissatisfaction) and so on. The development and accelerated innovations in response to consumer insights will also be considered.
Geopolitics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides students with conceptual frameworks based on geopolitical perspectives that will enable them to identify the long-term factors behind day-to-day events and to explore and debate current geopolitical developments of relevance to international business and the everyday experience of students as embodied agents of geopolitics. The module involves students identifying and evaluating a range of geopolitical issues while exploring them from various geopolitical identities. It will foster geopolitical literacy, allowing students to become fully participating subjects in geopolitical discourse. Additionally, students will engage in collaborative activities that address phenomena intersecting geopolitics and business in an increasingly globalised environment.
Project Planning and Control	15 Credits	Optional
Project management is essential in all business development and this module gives students hands-on experience of managing the project process. The module content and assessment strategy allow students to study project planning and control in the context of their chosen discipline and from a general project management perspective, thus developing skills and knowledge transferable to other business and management fields and practice. Students benefit from greater flexibility and support due to a blend of face-to-face lectures and seminars, on-line discussions, a simulated project environment, and use of business software tools such as MS project. The module provides a sound basis for further professional studies such as the Association for Project Management (APM) Introductory Certificate in Project Management.
Digital Marketing in Practice	15 Credits	Optional
Students will develop a digital marketing communications campaign and understand how to measure campaign performance. Students will explore digital marketing planning theories and concepts and examine current digital marketing practices, in order to develop a digital marketing communications plan.
Organisational Psychology	15 Credits	Optional
This module will explore factors influencing people's behaviour and the ways they experience work within organisations. The content includes looking at recruitment and selection, job design and motivation, and occupational stress. We reflect on how groups function in organisations and decision-making.
European Consumer Markets: Issues and Trends	15 Credits	Optional
This module will analyse what Europe means as a geographical, economic, legal and socio-cultural entity in the 21st century and how all aspects of life in Europe affect consumer behaviour and the marketing of goods and services within it. Segmentation in terms of European life styles will be explored, together with the ways in which the marketing mix elements and market research are adapted to the various markets. The latest trends in the marketing of goods and services in contemporary Europe will be discussed in the process.
Geopolitics	15 Credits	Optional
This module provides students with conceptual frameworks based on geopolitical perspectives that will enable them to identify the long-term factors behind day-to-day events and to explore and debate current geopolitical developments of relevance to international business and the everyday experience of students as embodied agents of geopolitics. The module involves students identifying and evaluating a range of geopolitical issues while exploring them from various geopolitical identities. It will foster geopolitical literacy, allowing students to become fully participating subjects in geopolitical discourse. Additionally, students will engage in collaborative activities that address phenomena intersecting geopolitics and business in an increasingly globalised environment.
Finance for Global Business	15 Credits	Optional
This module will examine the key investment and financing decisions made in business in relation value maximisation. The approach will focus mainly on practical aspects but will discuss theory where necessary. Topics would normally include: business objectives, investment appraisal techniques, risk, sources of finance, cost of capital – issues and limitations, dividend policy – impacts of liquidity crisis, measurement and management of forex risk.
Placement Study Abroad Asia (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Asia (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Asia (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Africa (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Africa (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Africa (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Australia (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Australia (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Australia (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Europe (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Europe (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Europe (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad North America (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad North America (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad North America (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Latin America (AB)	120 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Latin America (A)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad Latin America (B)	60 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	15 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	30 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	45 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	75 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	90 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad at an Overseas Academic Institution	105 Credits	Optional

Japanese Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students' competence in Japanese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students' competence in Japanese. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5A	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves your competence and confidence from study at levels 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. You will develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and you will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable you to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5B	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables you to improve further your competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. You continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable you to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Contemporary Issues in Ethics, Business and Sustainability	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module enables students to identify and evaluate a range of national and global approaches to sustainability, exploring the various meanings attached to the word sustainability and alternative strategies and drivers. Students will discuss the technology that businesses and government agencies are using to develop and evaluate their practice in this area. Issues of ethics and social responsibility, stakeholders, political legitimacy and economic longevity will be considered together with the ecological issues which are the focus of current media debates. Students will gain the ability to identify and explain the major developments in national and global sustainability practice in the twenty-first century and to compare and contrast alternative approaches, supporting an informed choice of a personal ethical and practical stance to guide their future handling of sustainability issues.
International Strategic Leadership	15 Credits	Compulsory
International strategic leadership explores the complexities facing leaders operating within internationalised business contexts. The module explores strategic decision making in the context of international business, including patterns of internationalisation, national environment and development and international organisation. Students are encouraged to consider the significant role of social and cultural similarities and differences, and the implication for working effectively in diverse organisations, national contexts and markets. The leadership focus encourages students to think critically about their own cultural assumptions, and to develop the skills required to engage with diversity to achieve common goals. This includes recognising the additional challenges facing leaders as they work across extended geographies and a turbulent geopolitical landscape.
International Production and Governance	15 Credits	Optional
This module explores key changes in the global economy by examining recent trends in international trade, production, investment and labour. Theories of international production are examined alongside the competitive strategies of large transnational firms. There is focus on the changing patterns of governance with regards to different varieties of capitalism and the relationship between different levels of governance; the global, the national and the local. The module emphasises the way in which both academic and business literature offer competing interpretations on the nature of these changing trends, their outcomes and their implications for policy. The module explores a wide range of current issues, moving beyond some of the standard economic concerns, to consider the sustainability and ethics of some economic approaches. Wider societal impacts are also considered by highlighting socioeconomic imbalances, the impact of migration and exploring health outcomes under different political economy models. The informal economy is addressed, particularly within an economic treatment of sex working and the sex industry.
Issues in Global Economy	15 Credits	Optional
This module explores the fundamental economic changes in the global economy and their implications for both developed and developing economies. It addresses a range of issues related to changes in international production, global financial structures, trade patterns, global governance and economic development. The aim of trade and development is to deliver increases in wealth and economic well-being but the extent to which poverty and average income are improved are considered by exploring these aspects and income distribution in selected countries and cases. For example, the clothing industry and the extent to which working conditions and incomes are being positively impacted, as well as the extent to which such globalised supply chains conform to ethical practice. Other significant factors in driving global economic change are also explored, such as migration and the environmental impact of development, through considering selected cases e.g., the car industry and the development of cleaner, electric vehicles.
International Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module provides contemporary, applied and critical insights into the management of people across borders and in multinational corporations (MNCs). The HR implications of managing international assignments are investigated, and in-depth exposition provided of HR contexts and features in major global regions. The module specialises in HRM and International Business and is relevant students studying HRM or general business programmes and for those students working/planning to work in an international environment. Module contents include; Analysis of the differences between National and International environment. Examine structures and strategies of MNC s including ethical issues impinging upon international business in the field of employment. Considering the management of the expatriation cycle-recruitment, training, pay, performance management and repatriation. Analysis of industrial relations, structures/systems for employee participation in North America, Europe and Australasia and major. Exploration of political and economic environments and the major features of HR/ employment practices in North America, Europe, Australasia and developing countries.
Knowledge Management and Business Intelligence	15 Credits	Optional
This module recognises the importance of information and knowledge in the management decision-making process by exploring how organisations utilise knowledge management and business intelligence in their endeavours to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. It covers a wide and diverse range of current thinking in terms of theoretical and practical aspects of knowledge management and business intelligence systems. Fundamental tools and techniques are investigated and applied to a wide range of critical case studies.
Islamic Banking and Finance	15 Credits	Optional
The module intends to provide students with knowledge and understanding of Islamic banking and finance. The module will provide background and foundations of Sharia framework (Islamic code of life) in which the Islamic banking system claims to operate. The ideals of IBF with an emphasis on prohibition of Riba (interest) will be discussed. Students will gain understanding of various Islamic modes of financing and various financial instruments. The module will also provide knowledge and understanding of Islamic contract and Islamic commercial law. Students will learn and evaluate the latest developments and trends in this field with special emphasis upon the UK.
Creative Problem Solving for Managers	15 Credits	Optional
This module is very practically orientated and hands-on. It is aimed at anyone intending to become an effective manager, consultant or business analyst. The really important problems and crucial decisions faced by professionals in their work are often complex and ill-defined. They are known as "wicked" problems or "messes". Problem structuring (or soft systems) methods have been developed to help us cope in these challenging, unstructured situations. Often much of the difficulty is due to people's differing perspectives, the worrying uncertainties or the multiple interacting and dynamic factors. Imaginative approaches are needed to rigorously analyse messy, qualitative issues. Problem structuring methods take a holistic view and are highly effective. The three methodologies selected are: SODA Soft Systems Methodology System Dynamics With the right expertise and a suitable toolkit of methods, the manager or consultant can choose appropriate techniques, and creatively combine and tailor them to tackle any problem with confidence.
Social Networking and Enterprise	15 Credits	Optional
Social networking is a rapidly growing phenomenon and it is one of the most influential media in web technology today. Hundreds of companies globally use social media to gain credibility, foster employee relationships, build a forum for communication with customers and, often, to boost sales. Businesses receive inquiries directly from consumers and other businesses without advertising, which results in lower costs and higher conversion rates. Therefore, this module explores insights of the social networking sites and opportunities they present for organisations.
Research Methods	0 Credits	Optional
This non-credit bearing module of study is designed to provide students with sufficient research skills in order to successfully undertake a dissertation and/or research project. Key themes covered by the module include: Primary and secondary research. Formulating the research objectives/questions. Quantitative and qualitative research methods (inc. including sampling). Writing the methodology chapter. The need for a theoretical underpinning and writing the literature review. Ethics considerations and the approval process.Presenting research findings.
Corporate Financial Strategy	15 Credits	Optional
This single semester module is designed to provide an insight into the area of financial strategy. The module begins by examining the life cycle and the various sources of funding available at each stage and moves on an analysis of major business changes, eg restructuring, mergers/acquisitions. The module will enable students to build on their business analysis and reporting writing skills, and the knowledge gained about business should significantly enhance their employability.
Financial Aspects of International Business	15 Credits	Optional
The international financial system Foreign exchange rate theories Foreign exchange risk – definitions Managing foreign exchange risk - techniques Devising a hedging strategy Direct foreign investment – risk management
HBS Placement	0 Credits	Optional
This activity is self-directed by the student and carries no credits. Students will be supported by the Professional Experience Module Leader, Professional Experience Visit Co-ordinator, an Academic Mentor and the Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE). Successful completion of the Professional Experience Module leads to the appropriate suffix on students degree title stated on the programme specifications. Student are required to complete at least 30 weeks of full-time equivalent (at least 35 hours per week) placement activity.
International Business Dissertation	30 Credits	Optional
The dissertation offers the opportunity to undertake an individual piece of work that is designed to develop research skills relevant to a specific area of study. Students will be allocated an academic supervisor who will meet with students on a regular basis. On completion of the research, students will be required to produce a dissertation of between 7,000 to 10,000 words. The dissertation will be assessed using the Business School dissertation criteria.
Databases for Strategic Decision Making	15 Credits	Optional
The experience gained in this module will give students the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills to investigate the data requirements of a business problem and establish, through the use of data modelling tools, the structure of the database. A complete database design and development process will be undertaken and documented to include entity relationship diagrams, data dictionary, development using SQL, testing and evidence of SQL code being used to create queries. A very practical module which develops students' business analysis skills as they develop a logical database design model based on a set of requirements. The acquisition of skills in database design concepts and SQL exposes students in a very practical way to the means by which information is extracted from databases and manipulated for presentation to the user, underpinning a more theoretical understanding of information requirements at different levels of management decision-making.
Integrated Marketing Communications	15 Credits	Optional
This module explores marketing communications in various contexts and how technology has changed communications planning and delivery. It investigates how marketers are required to blend communications across online and offline channels to create a unifying platform that can deliver a connected communications strategy to deliver organisational objectives, and how consumers and other stakeholders influence the message and the brand. Real world examples from a range of organisations and sectors are used to examine how the unifying platform must connect to customers through emotional actions. How the story is communicated across the most appropriate channels given the market and organisational context is evaluated, along with the challenges of managing communications for different organisations.
Global Marketing	15 Credits	Optional
Global marketing success is a function of perspective, opportunity, motivation, organisation, knowledge and skills. The challenge for today's global marketers is to identify those opportunities appropriate to the firm, to develop appropriate marketing strategies and build and sustain competitive advantages in co-operation with other members of the firm as well as external partners and also consider the ethical implications of a range of global marketing strategies. To this end, the module will provide learning opportunities to appreciate current writings and perspectives on the global marketing environment. Opportunities will be given to analyse different global marketing organisations and their environments, suggest and implement realistic strategies and plans and control mechanisms.
Japanese Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students' competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Japanese. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, complemented by grammatical instruction, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Japanese. The course will be based on a textbook and supplemented by selected, carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on issues encountered in the workplace and in everyday life in Japan. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied. Students will be exposed to varied teaching formats, including lectures, small group work and independent study in the digital language laboratory.
Japanese Route B 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Japanese. A thematic approach to language learning will be used complemented by grammatical instruction, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Japanese. The course will be based on a textbook and supplemented by selected, carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on issues students would encounter while working or studying in Japan. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied. Students will be exposed to varied teaching formats, including lectures, small group work and independent study in the digital language laboratory.

Study abroad

Every aspect of this degree is internationally focused, from the modules you’ll study here with us at Hertfordshire to the exciting year – or two – you’ll spend studying abroad.

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about work placements

Please note Erasmus+ funding is only available until May 2023. For students starting their course in September 2022 and wishing to study abroad in 2023-24 or 2024-25, please refer to the Turing Scheme.
Work placement

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about work placements
What if I need support?

You will always find a friendly and supportive welcome in the Hertfordshire Business School (HBS). Our course and module tutors are here to guide you on your academic journey. To enhance your learning, we have a dedicated Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE), which provides both online and face to face academic skills guidance to all HBS students, enabling you to get the best grades possible. If you need further support and things don’t go according to plan, our pastoral team are also here for you to help you get back on track. On top of that, both our LRCs run drop-in study skills sessions too. And the best thing is, it’s all free.
Whether you stay in our ultramodern Halls of Residence or commute to the University, you will be a valued member of an active student community and the wider HBS family.

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Heraldas Gaspariunas

Meet Heraldas Gaspariunas, an entrepreneur who is passionate about growing his biotech start-up and is committed to embracing new experiences and lifelong learning.

Read more stories BA (Hons)(SW/YAB) International Business

Current job role	CEO of biotech start-up ACellZ
Year of graduation	2020
Course of study	BA (Hons) International Business

Entrepreneurial ambition

International Business graduate Heraldas is co-founder and CEO of an early-stage biotech start-up, ACellZ. His company is based on research developed by University of Hertfordshire PhD students and is focused on chemical safety in the eye. He says, ‘My goal is to grow a successful start-up, where I can continue to learn and improve myself, both personally and professionally. I love working with people to find innovative solutions to problems. I look forward to one day becoming a mentor for others like me within this field.’

Heraldas has been very successful in securing large grants to grow his business, these include £50K from Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research (ICURe), and £300K from Innovate UK.

In 2021 Heraldas represented the University of Hertfordshire at the Santander X 2021 Entrepreneurship Awards, which is one of the UK's largest student and graduate business pitching competitions. Heraldas says, ‘The Santander X programme really helped my professional development. It was an amazing opportunity to support and learn from like-minded entrepreneurs. The weekly workshops allowed me to learn new skills and supported my growth as an entrepreneur, CEO, and a leader. During Santander X, I was also selected to participate in the 'Founders Up!' project, which documents my journey during and after the Santander X programme via podcasts for future entrepreneurs to see.’

A global student experience

Heraldas applied to the University of Hertfordshire to benefit from expert lecturers and the opportunity of studying abroad. He says, ‘The option of studying abroad for two years during my four-year degree was a huge selling point for me, and after visiting the Hertfordshire Business School facilities and meeting some of the lecturers, I knew Herts was the right place.’ ‘In every country I visited during my study abroad, I met so many amazing people and made long-lasting friendships. I explored new cultures and broadened my understanding of global business, which has had a positive impact on shaping my life aspirations. I studied in Australia for one year, six-months in Norway, and completed an internship with FlixBus in Germany for seven months. If I had to choose one memorable moment it would be jumping out of a plane and swimming with turtles in Australia.’

Embracing opportunities at Herts

Heraldas has continued to receive support from Herts since embarking on his entrepreneurial journey. ‘I have benefited a lot from the support given to me by the University of Hertfordshire. My first graduate job was as a Business Associate through a Santander internship with a company called ImmuONE, which I applied for through the University’s Careers and Employment Service. Meeting talented researchers at ImmuONE kick-started the opportunity for me to establish my own company ACellZ.’ ‘It was also the Careers and Enterprise Team who put me forward for the Santander X awards and they supported me with preparations for my ICURe pitch. In July 2021, I joined the University’s Business Incubator to further learn from like-minded entrepreneurs.’

Advice for other graduates

‘A love for learning and personal development does not necessarily come from knowing what you want but believing it will benefit you in reaching your dreams someday. Getting to this point has required hard work, persistence, and a willingness to go outside my comfort zone'.

At the University of Hertfordshire, I’ve not only earned a degree but gained knowledge and skills to run a business, developed my professional and personal life, and received support and direction for my entrepreneurial journey.

Alumni Stories

Grace Tucker

Meet Grace Tucker whose career has taken her from China to Kent and now to Guernsey in a very short time

Read more stories Find out more about this course

Current job role	Graduate Analyst
Year of graduation	2018
Course of study	BA(Hons) International Business with Study Abroad Year

Grace wanted to study a flexible business course with a language, and was able to do both at Herts.

'I studied BA (Hons) International Business with Mandarin and I was also able to do an extended study abroad and work placement. I did one year in Singapore, a summer studying in China at ESSCA, six months in Barcelona and six months working in Shanghai as a Business Developer, a truly global experience.

Studying with Herts also allowed me to do two years abroad which has really benefitted me on a personal level, becoming a more well-rounded individual. It also helped further my career as it has demonstrated I am adaptable and motivated.'

Memories made at Herts

When thinking about her favourite memories of her time at Herts, Grace says it’s difficult to narrow it down to a few.

'I have so many amazing memories. However, although I had some of the most fun in my life in first year living on campus with the most amazing friends I made, my favourite memory has to be being able to spend New Year’s in Sydney when I was studying in Singapore.

I had met up with other course mates from Herts and they let me stay with them at their study abroad campus. We all met up and spent midnight at the Royal Opera House followed by getting the train to Bondi beach where we all ran into the sea and made it onto Australian TV!'

Life after Herts

Upon graduating Grace lived for a short while in China focusing on her language skills and doing a Marketing Internship. She also taught English to save some money but returned home from China to spend 6 months as a full-time carer for her father.

After this she was offered a job in the Guernsey Financial Services Commission where she now works as a Graduate Analyst in Financial Crime Division and feels very fortunate and happy for the opportunity.

Living on Guernsey amidst the coronavirus pandemic

Moving to the Channel Island of Guernsey has been quite an experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and very different to mainland UK. Grace says,

'I had three months of lockdown at my home in Kent with my mum, I spent a lot of time attending 1-1 Mandarin classes online and helped decorate her house whilst I waited to be able to get a flight to start my job in Guernsey. Flying in the middle of a pandemic was really interesting and I have never seen an airport so empty!

Guernsey’s lockdown measures were very strict. On arrival there were lots of rules, I had to remain indoors for two weeks, not even allowed outside for a walk unless it was in my private garden. The border agency made random visits to make sure you were staying in.

However, because of this my life wasn't greatly affected by Covid-19. There were only a handful of cases here which were all contained. Life was very much completely normal... no masks, no hand sanitisers and everything operated as though Covid-19 never hit.

This was the case from May 2020 but changed recently due to a rise in cases on the island in January, which in turn has led to a second lockdown that we all hope will be over soon.'

The future

On her hopes for the future Grace is unequivocal in her reply, 'I am extremely grateful and lucky to be in this position despite missing my friends and family in the UK. I hope to remain in the Financial Crime Team with the GFCS and continue to work towards protecting Guernsey.'.

What's next for my career?

This EPAS-accredited international business degree gives you exceptional employability and 92% of our graduates are in work or further study within six months of graduating. They go into a wide range of roles in both internationally oriented UK businesses and in organisations all over the world.

Some of our graduates are offered jobs by the companies they took placements with, while others join graduate training schemes with globally focused companies. Some work as international experts within smaller businesses, and others secure professional roles in multi-national companies. Each year a number of our students also stay on to study at postgraduate level.

With a business degree, language skills and international exposure, you’ll be an attractive prospect for employers worldwide, as well as for UK-based multinationals. Many of our graduates work across Europe, North America, Asia and Africa, in the financial, automotive, publishing and retail sectors. They work in fields including HR, marketing, sales, procurement and travel management. Our graduates earn an average salary of £23,000 six months after finishing the course.
View our Alumni profiles

Heraldas Gaspariunas Grace Tucker
Key staff

Elizabeth Viz
Deputy Programme Leader
Natasha Khilji
Programme Leader

Course fact sheets
BA (Hons) International Business with Japanese	Download

Programme specifications
Languages	Download
BA (Hons) International Business	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Mandatory
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Sandwich, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2023

Start Date	End Date	Link
27/09/2023	31/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)
27/09/2023	31/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
27/09/2023	31/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

2024

Start Date	End Date	Link
27/09/2024	31/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)
27/09/2024	31/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
27/09/2024	31/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

Fees and funding
Fees 2023
UK Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2023/2024 academic year
EU Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

BA (Hons) International Business with Japanese

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees: See below

UCAS code: N123

Institute code: H36

Study a language option

Study abroad option

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Additional requirements

Exclusive content to help you through Clearing

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Study plan overview – Three-year programme

Study plan overview - Four-year programme

Study a language

Your main campus is de Havilland

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Heraldas Gaspariunas, an entrepreneur who is passionate about growing his biotech start-up and is committed to embracing new experiences and lifelong learning.

Entrepreneurial ambition

A global student experience

Embracing opportunities at Herts

Advice for other graduates

Alumni Stories

Meet Grace Tucker whose career has taken her from China to Kent and now to Guernsey in a very short time

Memories made at Herts

Life after Herts

Living on Guernsey amidst the coronavirus pandemic

The future

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2023

2024

Fees 2023

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation

Your main campus is de Havilland   