The programme is global in its outlook with specialist modules in business communications, from crisis communications to social networking for business. A series of workshops develop a range of communications skills for business, supporting theoretical study. The overall programme produces graduates who’re skilled communicators. If you are looking for an international career in business management and recognize the importance communication will have in your future role, then this programme is for you.
First year
This year lays the foundation for the study of business and management and public relations. You study the same programme as students on the BSc Business Management with Communications, including key message delivery and crisis communications, including key message delivery and crisis communications.
Second and fourth years
In these years you begin to have some choice within the themed structure of the programme. The modules offered will change from time to time, as they are developed to reflect the ever-changing world of business. During the second year you also prepare for your study abroad. In the final (fourth) year there is the opportunity to undertake a placement with a local media institution.
Third year
After two years at Birmingham Business School, you will spend your third year abroad at one of our partner institutions all of which are highly regarded. As the number of places at each institution varies from year to year, you’ll need to be flexible about where you go. The exact subjects you study will depend on where you go but are compatible with the Business Management and the Business Communications degrees. Please note that your year abroad is conditional upon a good performance in the first and second year exams, please see International Business with Language BSc for more information. If at the end of your second year you decide you do not want to take up the year abroad you can choose to transfer to the three year programme.
This year enables you to improve your understanding of the cultural context of business management and communications in another country. Our partner universities are in countries including:
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USA
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Mexico
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Hong Kong
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Czech Republic
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Canada
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Australia
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New Zealand
You can also arrange an exchange through the Universitas 21 programme (a list of partners is available at www.universitas21.com ) or other partners in the wider University.
European exchanges are part of the EU’s Erasmus programme and you will be eligible for a small EU grant. For students who take a Universitas 21 place, there is the possibility of a University bursary.
Your year abroad is taught in English, although many students benefit from the opportunity to learn their host country’s language.It may also be possible to undertake a work-based placement, boosting your practical experience.
It may also be possible to undertake a work-based placement.
Teaching and assessment
In addition to formal lectures there are small group classes, individual and group exercises and presentations (including press releases and radio and television interview workshops). Assessment is by a mixture of written examinations, essays and project work. To help you develop your PR and communications skills you will use the media and broadcasting training facilities here on campus during your studies.
Career opportunities
As this degree gives a more specialised understanding of aspects of international business, it is suited to students who are seeking employment in a multinational enterprise. Recent research has shown that companies value students who have lived and worked within another culture; as business becomes increasingly international, they need graduates who can work abroad on long or short placements and who can interact effectively with their overseas customers and suppliers.