Business Management and International Relations

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Leading with Purpose: Lessons from the Nonprofit Sector

  The module covers various non-profit organisations such as charities and social enterprises, and emphasises the unique aspects of the third sector, which relies heavily on a volunteer workforce. By taking this module, you will gain valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of non-profits and learn how to address strategic issues that these organisations face. Additionally, the module will help you develop both conceptual and practical skills that are essential for non-profit placements, independent study modules, or dissertations.

  Overall, you will have a broad understanding of the third sector, its similarities and differences from the private and public sectors, and the opportunities and challenges that come with working in the non-profit sector. By acquiring this knowledge, you can pursue a career in non-profit organisations or become an informed citizen who can contribute to the sector in various ways.
   

• Developing Professional Practice #2

  This module will help you develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for making effective career decisions and managing your future career development, including transitions into graduate employment, self-employment or further study (including professional training courses) whether in the UK or overseas. In the context of the Business School commitment to responsible management education (PRME), this module will support you in taking an informed and critical view of the current and future world of work and consider your future role and responsibility, not only to yourself but also to others. This module will raise your awareness of the services and support offered by the Careers Service and OBBS WAVES (Work and Voluntary Employment) team. The aim is to encourage you to further develop your career by engaging in placements, internships, volunteering and other extracurricular activities offered by the University.

• Organisational Behaviour and Management

  In this module, you’ll get to grips with organisational behaviour and management. This is when we analyse the behaviour of people in organisations, using concepts from organisational behaviour to practical issues and personal experiences. This will help you to develop insights into the complexity of diverse perspectives, cultures and values. You’ll understand the key elements of organisational behaviour and management, and understand how to apply it practically. You’ll gain core skills in critiquing and evaluating research, allowing you to become a better user of information and evidence.

• The Global Political Economy

  In this module, you’ll get to know the global economy. You’ll investigate how economics and politics shape world affairs in both trivial and profound ways. 

  In part 1, you’ll gain a strong knowledge of the history of the world economy. You’ll develop key analytical skills, as you explore competing explanations of how it functions. You’ll gain the tools you need to understand recent economic changes.

  In part 2, you’ll dig into key debates on how the global economy functions today, including: 

  • finance
  • global production
  • trade and international development
  • the relationship between the global economy and the environment. 
     

• Researching Oxford and Beyond

  You'll understand the development, application and realities of different research methods in the social sciences. You'll equip yourself with both the understanding and skills required to analyse research methods, design, processes and research outcomes. You'll study the methods that social scientists use to gather and analyse ‘data’ or evidence, and evaluate and compare these methods. 

  You'll also study the ways that research methods are applied in practice, by drawing upon existing examples of research in social sciences. Learning how to design your own research project, in preparation for your third-year extended project work. You'll carefully explore what is appropriate and achievable for your undergraduate research project.

• Leading for Social Impact

  The module covers various non-profit organisations such as charities and social enterprises, and emphasises the unique aspects of the third sector, which relies heavily on a volunteer workforce. By taking this module, you will gain valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of non-profits and learn how to address strategic issues that these organisations face. Additionally, the module will help you develop both conceptual and practical skills that are essential for non-profit placements, independent study modules or dissertations.
  
  Overall, you will have a broad understanding of the third sector, its similarities and differences from the private and public sectors, and the opportunities and challenges that come with working in the non-profit sector. By acquiring this knowledge, you can pursue a career in non-profit organisations or become an informed citizen who can contribute to the sector in various ways.
   

• Placement Search and Preparation (only compulsory for sandwich mode)

  This module is designed to provide practical guidance and support in undertaking a placement search, preparing for the placement experience, and succeeding in the modern workplace. Throughout the module, you will develop critical self-awareness and personal literacy skills, enabling you to self-reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses and target your placement search effectively. Additionally, you will also explore methods of effective and targeted placement search, increasing your chances of securing a placement.
   
  In summary, this module is an essential component of your employability journey. By integrating with co-curricular activities, the module provides a holistic approach to employability, ensuring that you'll have a broad range of skills and experiences to draw upon in your future careers.
   

• Great Debates in International Relations: Inclusion and exclusion

  In this module, You'll learn to ask what's International Relations [IR] theory for? With a sense of what it is meant to do, there is a follow-on question students of IR must ask: how do we know if it is successful? You'll the debate questions since the founding of the discipline of international relations in the world war 1 era. 

  Interestingly, in each of the four debates you'll under study in this module, the winner is the side making the ‘science’ claim, saying IR theory is about providing a generalizable way of looking at the world that holds true across plural and diverse political societies over time.

• Operations and Supply Chain Management

  Supply chain management is concerned with managing and controlling the activities along a chain of supply. From procuring materials to delivering finished goods that satisfy customer orders. 

  This module will help you study, in a global context, the processes necessary to strategically manage the flow of materials and products in order to achieve a competitive advantage. You’ll examine how effective logistics and purchasing systems can become key business enablers. Also you’ll look at how the management of international supply chains must form a significant element of the strategy of any organisation operating on a global basis. By the end of the module you’ll gain a deep understanding of the various threads in a supply chain and that an improved supply chain can be of a significant benefit for a whole business.
   

Optional modules

• Environmentally Sustainable Business

  The module discusses key environmental issues such as global warming, pollution, biodiversity loss and freshwater depletion and the role of business in causing as well as responding to such issues. The module includes macro (economic, policy, governance) as well as micro (organisational and individual) perspectives. You will be introduced to a variety of stakeholder perspectives and frameworks for evaluating business responses.

  On successful completion of this module, you will be able to recognise and evaluate the extent of business impacts on the natural environment, explain the economic drivers behind the unsustainable business and consumer behaviour and use and interpret complex information using digital media.

• International Markets and Competition

  In this module you will explore the operation and shortcomings of product markets in an international context. This will include considering the  different exchange rate regimes, theories of international trade,  protectionism and trading blocs, as well as measures to encourage competition and the international organisations that control and regulate free trade.

• Business Analytics and Decision Making

  This module concentrates on developing an understanding of the wider strategic and tactical aspects of analysing corporate performance. In teams, you’ll use a range of IT systems to develop a business intelligence system. And you’ll also explore the nature of decision making in business, from strategic to transaction based decision making, and the role of IT in supporting it. 
  
  Upon completion of this module, you’ll develop the necessary skills to analyse both quantitative and qualitative data, while being adept for management decision making.You’ll also have the ability to evaluate appropriate frameworks used for developing business intelligence solutions.
   

• Contemporary Security Studies

  What is security? How can we achieve it? And who should provide it? In this module, you’ll dive into key debates on security, and its definitions. You’ll join policy makers, academics and civil servants as you discuss fundamental issues of security. You’ll explore the different ways we look at security, and the things it protects, for example:

  • The nation-state
  • The environment
  • The economy
  • A ‘way of life’

  You’ll also look at the implications of security on peace and current global conflicts, as well as everyday violence and exclusion.
   

• Work-based Learning in Politics and International Relations

  In this module, you’ll have the chance to carry out a work placement closely linked to your International Relations course. You’ll be supported by your module leader to find a placement that meets your needs, and which will support your learning. With a carefully chosen placement, you’ll build on the skills and knowledge you’ve already gained in Year 1, and you’ll also strengthen vital skills for the workplace, like time management, communication and team-working. 

  Students have found placements in organisations like:

  • Asylum Welcome, working with asylum seekers in Oxford
  • Viva, an international children’s charity
  • Depaul, working with homeless people and immigrants in Paris.

  During and after your placement, you’ll:

  • create a placement portfolio, recording what you’ve done and achieved
  • craft a CV showing your experience
  • give a presentation on your placement.
     

• Independent Study Module

  This module gives you the chance to research a topic that fascinates you. With support from a supervisor, you’ll choose, plan and carry out your independent research, gaining in-depth knowledge of your subject. You’ll build great project management and research skills, which will help you in your future career.

• Uncivil Society: Constituting Global Order

  How do we govern the world, when it’s no longer dominated by states and national governments? How do different types of migration shape the movement of people across the world? In this module, you’ll get understanding of key part of international relations - borders and solidarities (groups with a common identity or interest). You’ll explore the various forms of borders and solidarities, including:
  
  migrations across national boundaries
  regional organisations
  trade agreements.
  
  And link them to key forces and events, such as: 
  
  NGOs
  corporations
  colonisation
  refugee movements
  the migrant ‘crisis’.
  
  You’ll gain valuable practical and professional knowledge, as you explore leading issues today, and how global governance or migration shapes our lives. 

• UK Politics

  In this module, you will explore the history and details of British politics, covering the major events and themes of contemporary British politics. 
  
  Examine the complex institutions that make up the British political system and how these have changed over time, including the evolution of political parties and how policy is made by the executive and implemented by the civil service. 
  
  You’ll look at political and economic factors side-by-side in how the British state is constituted and how decisions are made. You’ll also cover topics like;
  
  the changing nature of the British political system
  conceptual approaches to British politics
  the post-war consensus and its end electoral politics
  declinism
  Britain’s foreign relations and its relationship with Europe.
  
  Equip yourself with the knowledge and critical analytical skills to understand contemporary British politics.

• Russia and Eastern Europe after Lenin

  This module offers a comparative analysis of the politics of Russia and Eastern Europe during the 20th Century. It considers the key features of communist states in the region, with revolution being a major theme of the module. It seeks to understand the cause of revolution in these states, the nature of the Soviet system and its satellites, and why communism failed here.

Year 3 (compulsory for sandwich mode)

Compulsory modules

• CHOOSE ONE MODULE FROM:

• Placement

  On this placement you will be able to access a 40-52 week work-based learning / placement opportunity to help develop your employability and enterprise skills. You will gain first-hand knowledge and experience of making applications to and working in a placement role. You will set your own work-based targets and reflect upon your progress in the role you have on your placement. Halfway through your placement you will make a presentation to your line manager and placement tutor which summarises your gained knowledge on your placement and the tasks you have/ will complete in your placement role.

• Full Year International Study Abroad

  This is your opportunity to study Business topics abroad in order to experience a different national, educational and business culture and to build on your knowledge, understanding, skills and competencies you’ve gained so far. You will undertake an international study exchange at a university outside the UK, arranged with the University’s exchanges office. This international study exchange lasts for one academic year and is taken after your second year of studies (Level 5).

• OR CHOOSE THESE TWO OPTIONS:

• Short Placement

  This 24-week placement is your opportunity to develop your employability and enterprise skills. In the UK or Europe you will gain first-hand knowledge and experience of making applications to and working in a placement role. You will set your work based targets and reflect upon your success in your placement role. At the end of the placement, you will make a presentation to your line manager and placement tutor which summarises the knowledge and skills you have developed on your placement
   

• Work-based Learning

  This module is also a 24-week work-based learning opportunity for you to develop your employability and enterprise skills. As on the other modules you will have the opportunity to obtain first-hand knowledge and experience of making applications to and working in a placement role. This could include employment, volunteer work experience or undertaking a consultancy type project. 
  
  You will agree a brief before your work-based role begins,set work based targets and reflect upon your success in your placement role. At the end of the placement, you will make a presentation to your line manager and placement tutor which summarises the knowledge and skills you have developed on your placement.
   

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

• Critical Management

  This module is designed to provide you with a range of benefits to support your development as a successful corporate leader. Through the exploration of contemporary business themes and analysis of current cases, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the external drivers that shape organisational strategy, behaviour, and management. This understanding will enable you to recommend effective policies and strategies that align with stakeholder interests and wider societal responsibilities. Additionally, this module focuses on both national and international levels, which will help provide a global perspective on business themes and their impact on strategy.

  By developing cognitive skills such as critical thinking, analysis, creative problem solving, and decision making, you will be better equipped to navigate complex business environments with confidence.

• Business Governance and Human Rights

  Why should businesses be socially responsible? Why is it our responsibility to make sure others don’t suffer as we make money? In this module, you’ll dive into the different corporate regimes which ensure that we hold businesses to account for their actions. .

• Professional Practice # 3

  Build your knowledge of the theory and practice of career management. You will  demonstrate critical insight into your own knowledge, skills and experience and consider how this might allow you to manage your post-graduation career. You will also apply these ideas as you develop and run a learning activity for others.

Optional modules

• Conflict and Peacebuilding

  This module will you with understanding of the dynamics of intrastate conflict, the dominant practices of conflict management and peacebuilding in societies which experience violent conflict.  The module has three key aims: firstly, to conceptualise peace and the causes and dynamics of contemporary conflict. Secondly, to investigate models of peacemaking. Thirdly, to understand how building a sustainable peace can be achieved by societies emerging from war. 
  
  You'll analyse current cases of violent conflict, critically evaluate peacebuilding processes and ask questions about the quality of peace that often emerges.

• Business Ethics

  This module is designed to address our changing world that is facing social and environmental challenges. You’ll develop the capacity to make ethically defensible decisions as members of business organisations and of society in general. You’ll analyse and evaluate the ethical propositions of others. And you’ll evaluate the ethics of different systemic models of production, distribution and exchange.Upon completing this module you will be able to evaluate and apply ethical reasoning to local and global business dilemmas and economic systems, and you’ll be able to evaluate the significance of a range of western and non-western ethical perspectives. 

• Global Development, Justice and Sustainability

  How can we respond to and solve global injustice and the ecological crisis without a world government? How can we resolve issues in international politics which are beyond the limit of individual countries? A global unified approach is critical for success. 

  In this module, you’ll gain knowledge of the theory and practice of global development, justice and sustainability. And build your analytical skills.  You'll take a combined approach of looking at global development and the ecological crisis. You'll examine competing and contrasting perspectives that feature across these global issues. Helping you gain understanding in their global justice implications. Also you'll look at international policy responses and global governance initiatives. 
   

• Social Enterprise and Social Innovation

  The module covers a multi-disciplinary approach to contemporary issues in entrepreneurship allowing you to develop a well-rounded skill set. Throughout the module, you will learn from experts in the field and gain practical insights into entrepreneurship. You will have the opportunity to engage in practical learning, including research and working within a community of like-minded individuals, enhancing your personal and professional growth. Moreover, emphasis is placed on interaction within a research community, providing you with valuable teamwork and communication skills.

  Overall, this module offers you a unique learning experience that combines academic rigour with practical insights, giving you a competitive edge in the job market while developing essential research and self-development skills.
   

• Leading and Managing Change

  After completing this module, you will have an understanding of the nature of change and key theories, frameworks, principles and practices relevant for the management and leadership of change. You'll be able to evaluate critically the actions taken by those leading change. You will be better prepared to lead and manage change in your own managerial careers and have an increased awareness of your own potential for ongoing personal development in leading and managing change.

• Responsible Leadership

  You'll explore socially and environmentally responsible approaches to organisational leadership in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) environment. You'll be equipped to develop your own innovative leadership approaches based on an understanding of individual and global values, and you'll have opportunities to build on this understanding and create positive impact. 

  The module is underpinned by the United Nations Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The module is geared towards employability and career management. Through carbon literacy training accredited by The Carbon Literacy Project, it will equip you with the ‘green’ and ‘socially just’ knowledge for responsible leadership, layered with the skills to notice and build interconnections across organisational roles and functions.

• Social Science Extended Project

  In this module, you will develop and utilise your research skills as you further investigate topics you will have encountered in other elements of your study through an extended project. You will work on either a community project or research dissertation, and you can choose to focus on just one of your subjects, or create an interdisciplinary project. 

• Conflict and Peacebuilding

  This module will you with understanding of the dynamics of intrastate conflict, the dominant practices of conflict management and peacebuilding in societies which experience violent conflict.  The module has three key aims: firstly, to conceptualise peace and the causes and dynamics of contemporary conflict. Secondly, to investigate models of peacemaking. Thirdly, to understand how building a sustainable peace can be achieved by societies emerging from war. 

  You'll analyse current cases of violent conflict, critically evaluate peacebuilding processes and ask questions about the quality of peace that often emerges.

• The Environment, Sustainability and Social Justice

  How can we respond to and solve global injustice and the ecological crisis without a world government? How can we resolve issues in international politics which are beyond the limit of individual countries? A global unified approach is critical for success. 

  In this module, you’ll gain knowledge of the theory and practice of global development, justice and sustainability. And build your analytical skills.  You'll take a combined approach of looking at global development and the ecological crisis. You'll examine competing and contrasting perspectives that feature across these global issues. Helping you gain understanding in their global justice implications. Also you'll look at international policy responses and global governance initiatives. 

• Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism

  You'll compare and contrast the shifting and different ways in which states respond to terrorism, and you'll critically engage with the idea of counter terrorism; what it is, and its relation to conceptions of the state, security and political violence. 

  You'll then examine particular moments of counter terrorism practice, going on to consider the similarities and differences in various countries' responses to terrorism. You'll conclude this module by considering how these various responses impact upon both human rights regimes and norms and citizenship rights, behaviours and practices.

• Independent Study Module

  This module gives you the chance to research a topic that fascinates you. With support from a supervisor, you’ll choose, plan and carry out your independent research, gaining in-depth knowledge of your subject. Student projects have included subjects like:

  • Is democracy failing in Eastern Europe?
  • Did Putin solve Russia’s governance problems?
  • Authoritarianism and political stability in North Korea.

  You’ll build great project management and research skills, which will help you in your future career.