International Relations and Business Management

International relations and business management is a combination that takes seriously the reality that business today operates in a globalised world where political, diplomatic, and cultural factors shape commercial decisions as profoundly as market forces do. International relations examines how states and other actors interact in the global system, how foreign policy is made, how international organisations and trade agreements shape the rules of the game, and how conflict, diplomacy, and cooperation play out across a world of competing interests. Business management equips you with the practical knowledge of how organisations are run, financed, and led, and how commercial strategy responds to the environments in which firms operate.

At the University of Derby, this three-year full-time programme takes a transdisciplinary approach to world affairs and global issues, encouraging you to tackle the trends that affect human societies, policies, and the planet and to develop the capacity to navigate and influence some of the world's most important questions. The programme includes a foundation year for students who want to build their academic foundations, as well as a sandwich year and work placement opportunities, giving you structured professional experience in business or international affairs contexts before you graduate. You will develop skills in political analysis, strategic thinking, commercial management, and the communication and research abilities that both disciplines demand.

Graduates of international relations and business management programmes pursue careers across the intersection of the commercial and the political, including roles in international business, global consultancy, government, diplomacy, export and trade promotion, international organisations, and non-governmental organisations. The combination is particularly well suited to careers in multinational corporations where understanding the political and regulatory environment of international markets is essential, as well as in government departments with international economic responsibilities. Postgraduate study in international relations, global business, international law, or public policy is a natural next step for those who wish to specialise or advance to more senior roles.