Course Overview
Attendance
* Price per academic year
Course summary
Are there any winners in an international trade war? Are large trade deficits a problem? What are the challenges for businesses that wish to start exporting their products? You’ll tackle these questions and more on our exciting ‘top-up’ degree in Global Trade and Business.
More and more businesses are part of global value chains, which connect the production and supply of products across countries. Therefore, international trade is a top economic priority for governments, organisations and businesses alike. Exploring the opportunities and challenges this presents, our ’top-up’ degree gets you ‘work ready’, by debating these real world issues.
This one-year course, equivalent to the final year of a traditional Bachelor’s degree, is designed for students who have previously studied business and management to ‘Level 5’. You may, for example, have been awarded a Foundation Degree or HND Diploma, or benefit from a combination of academic and professional qualifications and experience.
You’ll not only deepen your understanding of the operations, strategy and decision-making processes of global trade and business, but also develop an appreciation of wider social and political issues surrounding business decisions by witnessing those involved first-hand and ‘in situ’ as part of your professional experience.
Subject to the availability of funding, you may be able to take part in international study trips. For example, the class of 2022/23 participated in work experience visits to Jaguar Land Rover in the UK and Volkswagen in Germany. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to relate what you have learned in the workplace, experiencing the different aspects of organisational practice, diverse cultures and everyday practicalities that exist.
Based in the heart of London’s political, media and financial services, at Westminster Business School, we bring professional practice into the classroom through industry speakers, real-life case studies, problem- and work-based learning. We welcome students from all walks of life from all over the world, representing 169 different nationalities, which will enhance your understanding of cultural diversity and international business awareness.
Top reasons to study with us
- Study at one of London’s leading centres for business education based in the heart of London and its political, media and financial services scene
- Outstanding facilities, free premium subscription to the Financial Times and access to data and software widely used in industry such as Bloomberg and the World Integrated Trade Solution (World Bank)
- Guest lectures from industry practitioners have previously included speakers from IBM, Tableau, Coca Cola and LinkedIn
- Past Business School graduates have secured jobs with prestigious organisations, including the Bank of England, BT, Coca Cola, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Goldman Sachs
- In the REF 2021, 75% of our business school impact case studies in the Business and Management Unit of Assessment scored 4* whilst 25% scored 3*. Read how our research is shaping the world
Course structure
This one-year top-up degree aims to develop your specialist knowledge of international trade, together with the businesses and organisations who engage in and regulate it at a regional and global level. Our focus on problem-solving and decision-making aims to give you strategic perspective and the ability to see the bigger picture of how international businesses plan, prepare and operate, and their sources of accountability internally and externally.
For your Global Trade and Business Project, you will spend a semester researching and studying a topic of your choice in depth under the guidance of a supervisor. To prepare you for this, you’ll participate in a series of structured seminars and workshops to develop your skills in data collection, data presentation, analysis and interpretation. The international work visit gives you a greater appreciation of the decision-making process for business and commerce, enabling you to graduate with a global outlook and experience that is much sought-after by future employers.
To ensure you develop sufficient, relevant knowledge and skills, you study six core modules.
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course.
You will study real-life business case studies to gain a deeper understanding of how changes in trade and economic policy influence business decisions. For example, you will learn how to evaluate policies such as Brexit and the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ so that you can develop an understanding of their influence on business networks and economic growth.
- Global Trade and Business Project
- International Political Economy
- International Trade
- Strategic Perspectives
- Research Methods in Business
- Professional Experience in Global Trade and Business
Credit Level 6
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Open days
Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
Despite recent logistics and supply challenges caused by the pandemic, global goods trade has rebounded. Therefore, graduates with specialist knowledge and understanding of international trade in a business context are increasing in demand.
You’ll be prepared for careers in international trade within an international organisation in the private, voluntary or public sector. You’ll also develop a range of transferrable skills useful in almost any career, including excellent communication, strategic and logical thinking.
Increasing numbers of our students progress to further study on graduation: either taking professional qualifications (in business, management or marketing, for example) or proceeding to a specialist Master’s degree in the business area.
The University's Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Develop entrepreneurial skills
Develop your innovation and entrepreneurial skills in The Big Idea competition, our annual business idea and innovation competition sponsored by Santander.
Kickstart your career
Learn how to use social media in your job hunt or LinkedIn to kickstart your career.
Develop your CQ
Develop your cultural intelligence – or ‘CQ’ – studying alongside students and staff representing more than 100 nationalities.
Industry links
Westminster Business School is one of London’s leading centres for business education based in the heart of London and its political, media and financial services scene. Staff who currently teach on this course have extensive professional experience in a range of business sectors with many staff maintaining links with industry through consultancy and training work.
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles such as:
- Account manager
- Business development manager
- Data scientist
- External auditor
- Financial trader
- Human resources officer
- Management consultant
- Marketing executive
- Sales executive
- Supply chain manager
Graduate employers
Graduates from Westminster Business School have found employment at organisations including:
- Bank of England
- Barclays
- British Academy of Film and Television Arts
- BT
- Coca Cola
- EE
- HSBC
- NHS
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
- Transport for London
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
Course Leader
Dr Helen Solomon
Staff
Helen joined the University of Westminster in 2019 from her post as Senior Lecturer in Economics at De Montfort University and bringing experience from teaching at two other universities. She became a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) in 2019 is now a Senior Fellow (SFHEA).
Since obtaining her PhD at the University of Essex in 2007, her research has focused on development macroeconomics, economic growth and monetary policy in the banking sector. She has published articles in Applied Economics, China Economic Review and most recently in Research in International Business and Finance. She is currently examining the Bank Lending Channel in developing countries as well as social media in developing countries.
I am really passionate about supporting and helping students through their learning journey in Economics. Economics provides a logical channel of thinking about varied topical issues from the prospect of negative interest rates to dealing with economic, financial and welfare implications of climate change.
Why study this course?
Combine theory and practice
Link theory to global practice through real-life case studies, guest lectures and insight from one of the world’s largest financial databases.
Learn industry-standard software
Enhance your digital literacy and computer skills by using industry-standard software including Excel, Tableau and FAME.
Build connections
Build connections with peers and future business leaders.
Entry Requirements
General entry criteria
Your qualification will need to be assessed by the course leader to ensure the programme content meets the required learning outcomes for accreditation of prior learning from the HND Diploma, Foundation Degree or other NQF Level 5 qualification in a related subject. Students will need to have achieved a total of 240 credits at levels 4 and 5.
Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Advanced Diploma (AD) (previously called SQA HND) awards
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the SQA AD, a student must have successfully completed the SQA AD in Global Trade and Business/Business with Information Technology/Business/Business with Accounting/Business with Marketing/Business with Human Resource Management and achieved an average of B in the Graded Units and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
Pearson BTEC HND
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the BTEC HND, a student must have successfully completed the Merit or Distinction grade in BTEC Higher National Diploma Business (including all business subject pathways as specified below) and achieve at least a pass in all units and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
Business subject pathways are as follows:
- Business (General)
- Accounting and Finance
- Business Management
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Law
More information
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
General entry criteria
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster, your qualification will need to be assessed by the course leader to ensure your programme of study meets the required learning outcomes for accreditation of prior learning. This can include HND Diploma, Foundation Degree, Hong Kong Associate Degree, ATHE Extended Diploma, other NQF Level 5 qualification / international qualification in a related subject area, equivalent to a total of 240 UK credits at levels 4 and 5 (this may include students who have completed 2 or more years of a bachelors level degree taught at an overseas institution, and who would like to transfer in order to graduate from the University of Westminster).
Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Advanced Diploma (AD) (previously called SQA HND) awards
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the SQA AD, a student must have successfully completed the SQA AD in Global Trade and Business/Business with Information Technology/Business/Business with Accounting/Business with Marketing/Business with Human Resource Management and achieved an average of B in the Graded Units and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
Pearson BTEC HND
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the BTEC HND, a student must have successfully completed the Merit or Distinction grade in BTEC Higher National Diploma Business (including all business subject pathways as specified below) and achieve at least a pass in all units and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
- Business subject pathways are as follows:
- Business (General)
- Accounting and Finance
- Business Management
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Law
Awards for Training and Higher Education (ATHE)
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the ATHE, a student must have successfully completed the ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business and Management with Merit and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
Hong Kong Associate Degree
For direct entry to year 3 (Level 6) of the BA (Hons) Global Trade and Business degree at the University of Westminster from the HK Associate Degree, a student must have successfully completed the HK Associate Degree qualification in business and management with 2.5/6 GPA and an IELTS score of at least 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each element or equivalent (subject to UKVI regulations) OR reached the equivalent standard by passing the appropriate Westminster Pre-sessional English as a Foreign Language (EFL). HKDSE English grade 3 will be also considered as CEFR B2 level and suitable for entry to degree programmes instead of IELTS.
More information
Learn new skills
Nurture your creativity
Develop your creativity to think outside the box.
Build critical evaluation skills
Learn to critically evaluate the strategies that managers use to help organisations adapt in an uncertain or complex environment.
Improve your problem-solving skills
Improve your problem-solving skills to better understand and tackle people management issues.
Westminster Business School blog
Read our blog and get an insight into life and studies at Westminster Business School.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,250 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Costs included in the fees
The following costs of the international work visit will typically be covered by the University:
- Coach transfers in the UK and destination country
- Flight or Eurostar tickets
- Hotel accommodation
- Evening meals on two or three of the evenings (alcohol not covered)
Students will be expected to cover lunches, any evening meals when they are out on their own. If unforeseen circumstances cause difficulties in the group travelling to the visits, the option of virtual visits will be offered.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £15,400 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Costs included in the fees
The following costs of the international work visit will typically be covered by the University:
- Coach transfers in the UK and destination country
- Flight or Eurostar tickets
- Hotel accommodation
- Evening meals on two or three of the evenings (alcohol not covered)
Students will be expected to cover lunches, any evening meals when they are out on their own. If unforeseen circumstances cause difficulties in the group travelling to the visits, the option of virtual visits will be offered.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
What our students think
Ngun Thomas
Global Trade and Business BA - 2023
Studying at Westminster, I discovered practical information is valued more highly than textbook learning when studying in the UK. You will be able to develop critical thinking, analytical abilities and creative talents in your field of study.
Filippo Comerio
Global Trade and Business BA - 2023
I enjoy studying on my course as it's interesting and motivating. The lecturers are also supportive and helpful. At Westminster, you get to study in the centre of London and have access to different campuses and libraries across the city.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2023/24
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Facilities
The Learning Platform
Lecture theatres
Library
Bloomberg Financial Market Suite
Digital Marketing Lab
Meeting spaces
Cafe
Course Location
Our Marylebone Campus has benefited from a multi-million-pound refurbishment resulting in new workshops, digital studios and development of the Marylebone Library. The campus is home to Westminster Business School and our award-winning Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page. For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.
Westminster Business School
Based in the heart of London's political, media and financial services, Westminster Business School has excellent industry links and a strong commitment to social enterprise.
Our courses are accredited by professional bodies including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Our practical teaching relates learning to the real world, and we develop graduates who are ready to respond to contemporary business challenges.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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