Take a transdisciplinary approach to the study of world affairs and global issues and tackle a range of issues to gain an insight into the trends that affect human societies, policies and the planet so you can navigate and influence some of the world’s most important questions and problems.
You’ll also study the practical application of business through real world learning. We will use our academic expertise to make the links between theoretical business frameworks and the practicalities of the real business world. We have developed extensive links with the business community to ensure our students have the opportunity to explore business in a real-world context.
Real-world learning
On your International Relations modules, you will get the opportunity to devise solutions to real problems and present your ideas to external audiences. In year two for example, there is a work experience module in which you'll be expected to work with a group, organisation or company on a project that either recommends or implements change. Then in year three, you'll get another opportunity to problem-solve with an advanced community or digital project. So even while you're studying, you will have the chance to start making a difference.
Your Business Management modules will explore organisations, their management and the global environments in which they operate, you’ll learn a host of new practical skills which you will then be able to apply to real-world business and management scenarios. You’ll also get to take your learning outside the classroom through industry projects, placements and internships.
Professionally approved
Chartered Management Institute accreditation means the CMI has independently assessed that the course meets its own high standards and priorities. The CMI is a UK professional body dedicated to promoting excellence in management and leadership. CMI accreditation is, therefore, a sign of a high-quality degree.
Students receive this accreditation if they pass the Business Management modules in their first year and select and pass required modules in their second year.
Choose your pathway
Studying an International Relations and Business Management Joint Honours degree allows you to choose whether you major in one subject or study them both equally.
You begin this degree by studying both subjects equally in your first year. By the end of your first year, you will then decide whether you would like to major or minor in a chosen subject or continue to study them both equally.
The modules below indicate the range of modules you may study as part of this combination, however prescribed and optional modules will vary depending on whether you choose to study both subjects equally, or choose to major or minor in a subject. To find out exactly which modules you would study as part of your chosen combination please contact jhs@derby.ac.uk.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
You’ll learn through a range of assessment methods that could include:
- Formal lectures which will at times include expert speakers
- Seminars: These can be tutor-led or student-led and can include discussions critical analysis of reading, presentations, group work, debates and general problem solving, interaction with real businesses, case study analysis, computer lab work, practical analysis and formative assessment
- Tutorials: one-to-one sessions with a tutor to discuss the development of assignments
- Work experience projects
- Self-directed study
- Video discussions with overseas partner institutions
- Source analysis, where you develop your skills as a historian by analysing and contextualising evidence from primary materials, and pieces for public audiences such as information for museum visitors or blog posts
How you are assessed
For International Relations modules, you will be assessed through a range of coursework, including essays, research reports, presentations, and participation in debates. Some modules will also assess your ability to develop teamwork and research skills in an applied, real-world context, and your ability to reflect on how these prepare you for your chosen career.
For Business Management modules, we mostly assess you through practical coursework assignments — the sort of tasks you might undertake in a workplace. Sometimes these will be individual tasks and at other times, you will need to work in a group. Assignments could include: business reports, research and consultancy projects, presentations, design of digital materials such as videos, blogs or augmented reality posters, and computer-based assessments.
Who will teach you
You will be taught by our team of engaging, passionate and inspiring subject experts.
Subject Leaders
Personal academic tutoring
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Find out more about personal academic tutoring
2024 entry
These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2024 entry. Contextual offers may apply to students who meet certain criteria.
| Requirement | What we're looking for | | UCAS points | 112 |
| A Level | BBB-BBC |
| BTEC | DMM |
| GCSE | N/A |
| Access to HE | N/A |
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
How to apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.
Due to the transferable nature of the skills you’ll learn such as verbal and written communication, critical analysis, independent thought and problem solving you'll be suitably positioned for a range of roles upon graduating, such as:
- Teaching
- Libraries
- Museums and archives
- Accountancy
- Banking
- Retail and commercial management
- Human resources
- Marketing
- Politics
- Journalism
- Campaigning
- NGOs
- Other Business-related fields
Careers and Employment Service
Our Careers and Employment Service can help you boost your employment skills by connecting you with employers for work placements, part-time jobs, and volunteering. They can also offer guidance on career options, CV writing, or starting your own business.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Contact us Contact us Teaching hours
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.
Included in your fees
- Your fee includes any mandatory study visits and some social events
- Membership of CMI and registration for Level 5 Diploma
- Opportunity of part funded trips abroad, optional with limited places available
- Access to CIMA exemptions depending upon option choice
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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