Everything you need to know...
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What is the fee?
Home: See fees section below
International/EU: £17,155 per year -
How long will I study?
3 / 4 Years
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Where will I study?
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What are the entry requirements?
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What is the UCAS code?
N1R4
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When do I start?
September 2025
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Placement year available?
Yes
1. Course summary
- Develop critical insight into the theory and practice of international business.
- Gain advanced skills in the Spanish language.
- Understand the cultural, social and economic contexts of your chosen language.
- Spend an optional semester at a Spanish university.
- Complete an optional 24-week work placement in a Spanish-speaking country.
Expand your language skills alongside your understanding of international business – preparing you to become a multilingual professional. There’s an option to study and work abroad for 18 months, developing transferable skills and giving you a competitive advantage in the international employment market.
Sheffield Business School accreditation
Sheffield Business School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and has been awarded the Business School Impact System label by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD).
2. How you learn
At every level of this course you’ll have the opportunity to acquire and apply an array of knowledge relating to international business. You’ll develop your Spanish language skills and cultural awareness to a high level. You’ll engage with real companies through placement and projects to increase your employability.
You learn through
- lectures and seminars, with guest speakers
- weekly sessions with Foreign Language Assistants
- Spanish modules taught in the target language
- independent and directed study
- presentations and group work
- an optional semester abroad
- an optional placement year abroad
Course leaders and tutors

Simon Nicholls
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader in French and Catalan StudiesStaff profile for Simon Nicholls, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader in French and Catalan Studies.
Applied learning
Work placements
As part of your course you have the option to spend at least 24 weeks on a paid work placement in a relevant organisation in Spain.
Not only is your placement a fantastic way to explore and get to know a different country, it’s also a great opportunity to gain valuable tourism industry experience and apply the knowledge developed throughout your studies. It also helps you develop your professional skills and Spanish language ability – significantly enhancing your employability.
Live projects
In addition to the optional 24-week work placement, you’ll also undertake Highly Skilled Employment projects in each academic year. You’ll apply your learning alongside your language skills, working with local, national and international companies. You’ll also learn from the experiences of other students, as part of our wider Languages Community.
Networking opportunities
We’re proud of our links with UK and international tourism-related businesses, and with our alumni. You’ll have numerous opportunities to network with them at events like our annual alumni event.
3. Future careers
As a graduate of this course you’ll have a wide choice of career options, both in the UK and internationally. You can find careers in multinational organisations and in UK-based firms with international operations.
This course prepares you for a career in
- international management
- foreign direct investment
- international enterprise
- international strategy
- regional integration
- global supply chain management
- translation and interpreting
- teaching and lecturing
Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work as
- marketing and business data analyst
- accountant in training
- account executive
- project planner in linguistic validation
- managing director
- software engineering consultant
- global quality control analyst
- associate consultant (IT)
- marketing manager
- junior asset manager
- cyber security analyst
4. Where will I study?
You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.
City Campus
City Campus is located in the heart of Sheffield, within minutes of the train and bus stations.
City Campus map | City Campus tour

Adsetts library
Adsetts Library is located on our City Campus. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.
Learn more5. Equipment and facilities
On this course you’ll have access to
- Hallam i-Lab, the University’s incubator space to support start-up graduate ventures
- interpreting and translation equipment
- digital laboratories
- dedicated IT facilities in our University libraries
- additional resources in our Languages Centre, an informal learning space for language students
- an extensive library collection, including online materials, relating to international business, languages, culture, history, politics and society
360 tour - i-Lab
Media Gallery
6. Entry requirements
All students
UCAS points
- 112-120
This must include at least 64 points from 2 A Levels or equivalent BTEC qualifications. For post A level language study, you must have an A level in Spanish or AS level at grade C in Spanish. For beginner level you need GCSE grade B or 5 in any foreign language, or equivalent. For example:
- BBC-BBB at A Level including an A level in Spanish
- DDM in BTEC Extended Diploma, with an A Level in Spanish or AS level grade C in Spanish.
- Merit overall from a T level qualification, with an A Level in Spanish or AS level grade C in Spanish.
- A combination of qualifications, which may include AS levels, EPQ and general studies, with an A Level in Spanish or AS level grade C in Spanish.
GCSE
- English language or literature at grade C or 4
- Maths at grade D or 3
- For beginner level you need GCSE grade B or 5 in any foreign language, or equivalent.
You can find information on making sense of UCAS tariff points here and use the UCAS tariff calculator to work out your points.
• Access - an Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2. At least 15 level 3 credits must be at merit grade or above, from a QAA-recognised Access to HE course, or an equivalent Access to HE certificate plus, for post-A level study, an A or AS level at grade C in Spanish. For beginner level you need GCSE grade B or above in any foreign language or equivalent. Normally an interview will be required.
If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills, or equivalent.
We welcome applications from people of any age. We may be flexible in our normal offer if you can show a commitment to succeed and have the relevant skills and experience. This must show that you will benefit from and finish the course successfully.
Additional information for EU/International students
If you are an International or non-UK European student, you can find out more about the country specific qualifications we accept on our international qualifications page.
For details of English language entry requirements (IELTS), please see the information for 'All students'.
Modules
Important notice: The structure of this course is periodically reviewed and enhanced to provide the best possible learning experience for our students and ensure ongoing compliance with any professional, statutory and regulatory body standards. Module structure, content, delivery and assessment may change, but we expect the focus of the course and the learning outcomes to remain as described above. Following any changes, updated module information will be published on this page.
Your third year will be spent on placement.
Compulsory modules
This module explores the diversity and complexity of national cultures and culturally diverse business practices and attitudes as they affect people and organisations. You will investigate comparative approaches to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Your learning will explore cross-cultural awareness, communication, lifestyle and give you the confidence needed to operate and work in engaging international settings.
You’ll study topics, such as:
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Spanish-speaking societies and social structures.
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Cultural insights through literature, film, and media
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Comparative Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion approaches
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Academic integrity, assessment literacy and the use of artificial intelligence
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Experience of diverse Spanish-speaking communities in non-European contexts.
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Business, Human Resource and Management culture.
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Opportunities to work and study in Spanish-speaking countries.
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Responsible and sustainable working practices.
This module introduces contemporary issues in business management, developing your awareness and understanding of factors affecting people and organisations in an ever-changing world. Teaching sessions will examine contemporary sources and debate current issues
You’ll study topics such as:
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Ethics and sustainability in business management
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Geopolitics and globalisation
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Changing business cultures and the role of stakeholders
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Smart technology and big data
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Business management research and approaches
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Shifting communication channels
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Economic controversies
Module summary
Language study will develop your self-confidence, and intercultural skills. It will give you new opportunities for learning and working across cultures. Language skills are highly sought after by employers and give you a real advantage in whatever you hope to do in the future.
You will study your chosen language at the appropriate level based on your existing language ability – please refer to the individual module descriptors for each language and level for further details on the teaching and assessment.
This module introduces different types of businesses and organisations, focusing on operations, supply chain and marketing – developing academic literacy, business skills and future aspirations. You’ll work independently, within groups and in a real-world applied project, developing and applying academic and professional behaviours.
You’ll study topics such as:
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Organisational types, scale and span
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Responsible and sustainable practice
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Business functions
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Marketing
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Supply chain
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Operations management
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Excel
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Academic skills and advising
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Employability and entrepreneurial advice
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Applied reflective practice
Compulsory modules
Module summary
Language study will develop your self-confidence, and intercultural skills. It will give you new opportunities for learning and working across cultures. Language skills are highly sought after by employers and give you a real advantage in whatever you hope to do in the future.
You will study your chosen language at the appropriate level based on your existing language ability – please refer to the individual module descriptors for each language and level for further details on the teaching and assessment.
This module is a work experience module introducing you to the academic and practice-led perspectives of international entrepreneurship. You’ll develop additional enterprising skills through an enterprise residency placement, alongside research and practitioner-informed teaching.
You’ll apply learning and study such as:
- Entrepreneurial opportunities
- Network ties
- Internationalisation
- Resources and capabilities
- Entrepreneurial financing options
- Business modelling activities
- Online ideation simulation activities
- Competences and skills
- Communication skills
This module explores managerial functions and develops awareness of the current challenges facing international management, including ethical and social responsibilities. Your learning will draw on research and examples of international practice shared by guest speakers.
You’ll study topics such as:
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International human resource management
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People resourcing policies
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Global supply chain structures and processes
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Global markets
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International business expansion
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Export management
This module is for undergraduate students to study abroad in their second year, Semester 2 (only for courses that offer this option). With this module, you can spend a semester at one of the University’s approved partner institutions worldwide – from Europe to the Americas, Asia Australia or Canada.
Study Abroad plays an important role in the University's commitment to an engaging, challenging, and thriving learning culture. It offers opportunities to experience other academic cultures and foster intellectual maturity while enhancing co-curricular skills and students' long-term employability.
Study abroad for credit is permitted on existing university-approved courses only. Students are awarded credits and grades at the partner institution, which are converted into Sheffield Hallam credits and grades on return and included in the Sheffield Hallam degree classification.
Please check and refer to the webpage How study abroad works. You must submit a Learning Agreement outlining the modules you will be taking at the partner institution. The Learning Agreement will be signed off by your academic tutor to ensure that the Learning broadly covers the Learning Outcomes set out in your course curriculum during your study abroad.
In this module, you will gain insight into the education and work cultures of Spanish-speaking countries by studying the relevant political, economic, social, and cultural issues that affect them. You will also learn to reflect on and articulate your employability skills, both orally and in writing. Moreover, this module will build on your existing language skills and help you develop an advanced, professional linguistic register.
The content for this module will vary to reflect the relevant, changeable issues related to Spanish contemporary culture and business environments. You’ll study topics, such as:
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The business and work environment in Spanish-speaking societies.
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The education system in Spain.
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Student life and experiences in Spain.
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Government policy in relation to central issues such as sustainability and the environment.
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Articulating employability skills in the target language.
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Writing CVs and other application documents.
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Job interview preparation.
Compulsory modules
Module aim:
The aim of this module is to enhance students’ professional development through the completion of and reflection on meaningful work placement(s).
A work placement will provide students with opportunities to experience the realities of professional employment and experience how their course can be applied within their chosen industry setting. The placement will:
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Allow student to apply the skills, theories and behaviours relevant and in addition to their course
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Enable students to enhance their interpersonal skills in demand by graduate employers – communication, problem solving, creativity, resilience, team work etc.
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Grow their student network and relationship building skills.
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Provide student with insights into the industry and sector in which their placement occurs
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Help student make informed graduate careers choices.
Indicative Content:
In this module students undertake a sandwich placement (min 24 weeks / min 21 hours per week) which is integrated, assessed and aligned to their studies.
Their personal Placement Academic Supervisor (PAS) will be their key point of contact during their placement and will encourage and support students to reflect on their experience, learning and contribution to the organisation they work for.
To demonstrate gains in professional development, students will be required to share their progress, learning and achievements with their Placement Academic Supervisor and reflect on these for the summative piece of work.
Compulsory modules
This module uses theories and concepts to explain how companies design, control and manage international subsidiaries operating in ethically and politically complex environments. During large and small group teaching, you’ll draw on world events and corporate experiences to explain the context and mechanisms of international business.
You’ll study topics such as:
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Foreign direct investment
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Entry strategy
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Theories of the international firm
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Subsidiary structure, management and dynamics
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Political economy and society
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Non-market/political strategies
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Business ethics
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Social responsibility
This module applies your knowledge of contemporary international business, developing critical and analytical research skills to inform decision-making in a real-life setting. You’ll develop an individual consultancy project with others in small groups – based on a live company brief or your own venture – exploring relevant theories in large group sessions.
You’ll apply learning and skills such as:
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Consultancy research
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Entrepreneurial projects
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Project design and management
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Identifying discipline-relevant frameworks and concepts
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Research methods, including ethics
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Business report writing
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Personal and professional reflection
This module aims to engage you with the greater socio-political and cultural contexts of global countries and communities where Spanish is spoken, while further increasing your Spanish language skills. The module will help you situate adjacent cultures and will facilitate a profound reflection on your own culture(s) and related contexts. This ensures a deep understanding of an important area of the globe, through comparative analyses, affording you a sound appreciation of historical and current issues in Spanish-speaking societies.
You’ll study topics such as:
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Significant controversies in history, society, and politics in Spanish-speaking countries and regions
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Issues relating to the socio-economic environment with selected Spanish-speaking countries
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Migration flows, identity, and political and cultural debates
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Foundational events in the history of Spanish-speaking countries and their impact on the present
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Regional and minority identities
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Women’s rights in Spanish-speaking societies
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Geopolitics and governmental systems
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Popular culture and its links to socio-cultural and economic debates
Module summary
Language study will develop your self-confidence, and intercultural skills. It will give you new opportunities for learning and working across cultures. Language skills are highly sought after by employers and give you a real advantage in whatever you hope to do in the future.
You will study your chosen language at the appropriate level based on your existing language ability – please refer to the individual module descriptors for each language and level for further details on the teaching and assessment.
8. Fees and funding
Home students
Our tuition fee for UK students on full-time undergraduate courses in 2025/26 is £9,535 per year (capped at a maximum of 20% of this during your placement year). These fees are regulated by the UK government and therefore subject to change in future years.
If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions under student fees regulations.
International students
Our tuition fee for International/EU students starting full-time study in 2025/26 is £17,155 per year (capped at a maximum of 20% of this during your placement year)

Financial support for home/EU students
How tuition fees work, student loans and other financial support available.
Additional course costs
The links below allow you to view estimated general course additional costs, as well as costs associated with key activities on specific courses. These are estimates and are intended only as an indication of potential additional expenses. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.
General course additional costs
Additional costs for Sheffield Business School (PDF, 255.6KB)Legal information
Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations.