This programme combines a broad-based business degree with the opportunity to develop a good working knowledge of a foreign language. Whether in Europe or further afield, there are enormous advantages in possessing this combination of skills.

The languages available to study within this degree are Arabic, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Russian and Chinese (Mandarin). You will spend one-third of your time studying your chosen language, and all language tuition will have a business focus. Languages offer beginners and post A level streams, with the exception of French and Spanish which are only available post A level, and Arabic, Japanese and Chinese (Mandarin), which are only available as a beginner.

First year

In addition to the study of your language, this year lays a foundation for the study of business. It introduces the key areas of management, marketing, economics, finance, law, and analytical techniques and IT for business. The year complements, but does not duplicate, the content of the Business Studies A level.

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. This ensures a breadth to your business and language education, whilst allowing a degree of specialisation in those areas in which you are particularly interested.

If you want to take advantage of a unique opportunity to be supported with a work placement opportunity as part of your final year, this course includes the opportunity to undertake a 'Professional Development' module as part of your optional module choices.

The year abroad

This year is essential for developing fluency in your language and is spent at a partner university. You study business in your chosen language and undertake project work for your degree. Exchanges in the EU are operated as part of the Erasmus programme and you will be eligible for a small EU grant. It may also be possible to undertake a work-based placement, and again if it is in the EU you will be eligible for an EU grant. Please note that your year abroad is conditional upon a good performance in the first and second year exams, click here for more information.

Your learning will take place in a range of different settings, from scheduled teaching in lectures and small group tutorials, to self-study and peer group learning (for example preparing and delivering presentations with your classmates).

To begin with you may find this way of working challenging, but rest assured that we’ll enable you to make this transition and you’ll soon be benefiting from some of the most highly regarded teaching in this subject in the country, as our independent accrediatations show.

You will have access to a comprehensive support system that will assist and encourage you, including personal tutors and welfare tutors who can help with both academic and welfare issues, and a formal transition review during your first year to check on your progress and offer you help for any particular areas where you need support.

Find out more about our academics' approaches to teaching and learning.

Personal Tutor

From the outset, you will be assigned your own Personal Tutor who will get to know you as you progress through your studies, providing academic and welfare advice, encouraging you and offering assistance in any areas you may feel you need extra support to make the most of your potential and your time here at Birmingham.

Contact hours

As well as time with your lecturers and personal tutor, academic and professional services staff (like our dedicated Careers Network team) will be aviailable to offer individual and group support throughout your time here at Birmingham.

Learning settings

You’ll find academic and professional staff involved in the delivery of your degree here at Birmingham located in University House. Set in landscaped gardens this multi-million pound home to Birmingham Business School is equipped with the latest facilities and technology to ensure your studies are inspired by their surroundings.Lectures and teaching will take place in a variety of versatile lecture theatres and breakout rooms which, as well as the traditional whiteboard and pen, are equipped with wireless connection and constantly updated technology including all the audio-visual equipment that you would expect from one of the UK’s premier insitutions.

• Small-group tutorials/personal tutorials run alongside our lectures, addressing any individual problems you may have and allowing you to consolidate lecture material, as well as test your understanding through problem-solving exercises.
• Self study is an essential part of the programme and requires self motivation and enthusiasm for your subject. It also allows you to pursue your own lines of enquiry and become an independent thinker.

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an excellent tool for supporting our academic courses, allowing you to share throughts on assignments with other students via the discussion group facilities, and even submit your work electronically.

Enquiry Based Learning (EBL) is a group activity which requires you to work in a team, with a variety of assessment methods; in either a group or individually, by written reports and sometimes as a presentation. Based on techniques used in research-led organisations like the University of Birmingham, EBL gives you a research-orientated approach to a problem and helps you to gain essential skills that are highly valued by employers.

Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.

Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CV’s and job applications will help give you the edge. In addition, our employer-endorsed award-winning Personal Skills Award (PSA) recognises your extra-curricular activities, and provides an accredited employability programme designed to improve your career prospects. 

If you want to take advantage of a unique opportunity to be supported with a work placement opportunity as part of your final year, this course includes the opportunity to undertake a 'Professional Development' module as part of your optional module choices.

Your Birmingham degree is evidence of your ability to succeed in a demanding academic environment. Employers target Birmingham students for their drive, diversity, communication and problem-solving skills, their team-working abilities and cultural awareness, and our graduate employment statistics have continued to climb at a rate well above national trends. If you make the most of the wide range of services you will be able to develop your career from the moment you arrive.

Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP “The University of Birmingham produces enthusiastic, motivated individuals who are ready to enter the world with us.”

Work Experience bursary Schemes

Undertake unique work experience opportunities to enhance your employability and rise above the competition.

Work Experience provides an ideal opportunity to gain invaluable skills and knowledge that will help further your career plans. With generous support from Alumni, undergraduate students (excluding those in their final year) can apply for funding to cover their incurred costs whilst they are working.

• Global Challenge Bursary (apply for one of our sourced opportunities)
  Up to £9000 available
• Gateway Bursary
  Up to £2000 available
• International Bursary
  Up to £800 available
• UK professional Bursary
  Up to £800 available
• Research Experience Bursary
  Up to £500 available

This funding can help you pay for:

• Accommodation costs
• Travel expenses
• Living costs