The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in International Business & Trade is a three-year, 360-credit qualification designed to prepare learners for success in the fast-moving world of global business. This internationally recognised programme offers a strong balance of academic knowledge and applied skills, making it suitable for both freshers seeking to build their careers and professionals aiming to expand their expertise in international markets.
Across its structured learning pathway, the Business & Trade diploma covers advanced concepts in global trade, finance, cross-cultural management, international law, strategic leadership, and emerging market opportunities. Learners gain the ability to evaluate business environments, design strategies for market entry, manage risks, and lead organisations in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
Industry demand for skilled professionals in International Business & Trade continues to grow as organisations expand across borders and adapt to global economic changes. This qualification equips learners with the confidence and practical skills required to take on leadership roles in multinational corporations, export-import organisations, trade advisory bodies, and other international enterprises.
Study Units
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in International Business & Trade, consists of 36 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Core Foundations in International Business
- Principles of International Business and Trade
- Fundamentals of Global Economics
- Business Law and International Regulatory Frameworks
- Introduction to Marketing in a Global Context
- Organisational Behaviour and Management Principles
- Business Accounting and Financial Reporting
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management Basics
- Business Data Analysis and Research Skills
- International Business Communication and Negotiation
- Information Technology for Business Operations
- Professional Skills for Global Business Careers
- Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Fundamentals
Year 2 – Applied International Business Practices
- International Trade Law, Tariffs, and Policy
- Strategic Marketing for International Markets
- International Banking and Financial Systems
- Cross-Cultural Leadership and Management
- Global Human Resource Management
- Operations and Supply Chain in Global Business
- International Risk Management and Compliance
- Political Economy and International Trade Relations
- Business Analytics for Decision-Making
- Digital Trade and E-Commerce Innovation
- Project and Programme Management in Business
- Ethics, Governance, and Sustainability in International Trade
Year 3 – Advanced Global Business Strategy & Leadership
- Strategic Management in International Business
- Advanced International Trade Theories and Practices
- Global Finance, Investment, and Capital Markets
- Leadership, Change, and Organisational Transformation
- International Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Trade Diplomacy, International Negotiations, and Policy-Making
- Emerging Markets and Global Business Opportunities
- Crisis and Risk Management in Global Business
- Advanced Research Methods for International Business
- Dissertation / Final Research Project in International Business & Trade
- Global Business Strategy and Competitive Advantage
- Future Trends in International Business, Technology, and Trade
Career Pathways
Upon successful completion, learners will be equipped to progress into a wide range of professional roles, including but not limited to:
- International Trade Specialist – managing export-import operations, handling trade documentation, and ensuring compliance with global regulatory frameworks.
- Global Business Development Manager – identifying international growth opportunities for business & Trade, building partnerships, and implementing expansion strategies across multiple regions.
- International Marketing Manager – designing and executing campaigns tailored to diverse cultural contexts, strengthening global brand positioning.
- Supply Chain and Logistics Coordinator – streamlining procurement, transportation, warehousing, and distribution for international markets.
- Risk and Compliance Analyst – monitoring legal, financial, and operational risks while ensuring businesses align with international governance standards.
- Entrepreneur / Business Owner – launching and scaling ventures in foreign markets, leveraging knowledge of global trade practices.
Industry Opportunities
Graduates of this programme will be prepared to contribute to high-demand sectors worldwide, such as:
- International Trade and Export-Import Enterprises – supporting organisations in navigating tariffs, customs, and cross-border trade.
- Banking, Finance, and Global Investment – working in trade finance, foreign exchange, and multinational banking systems.
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management – improving efficiency in global procurement, transportation, and distribution networks.
- Marketing and Global Brand Management – leading international business & Trade product launches, customer engagement, and cross-cultural brand strategies.
- Governmental and Non-Governmental Trade Bodies – assisting in trade promotion, regulatory compliance, and international policy development.
- Consultancy and Advisory Firms – providing expertise in trade negotiations, risk assessment, and global market entry strategies.
Professional Development
In addition to immediate career opportunities, learners can enhance their long-term employability in business & Trade by:
- Pursuing specialist certifications in areas such as trade compliance, customs management, global logistics, and risk governance.
- Participating in executive leadership training programmes to strengthen strategic decision-making, negotiation, and cross-cultural management skills.
- Expanding professional networks through international business & Trade associations, chambers of commerce, and global business forums.
- Engaging in continuous learning to stay updated on emerging technologies, sustainability practices, and digital business models.
Long-Term Growth
This diploma ensures that learners are future-ready, with the ability to:
- Embrace technological innovations such as blockchain, AI, and digital platforms shaping international business & Trade.
- Adapt to evolving trade policies and geopolitical changes affecting global supply chains and investment flows.
- Advance into senior leadership positions where strategic vision, risk management, and global competitiveness are essential.
- Drive sustainable international business practices, integrating corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmental awareness, and ethical governance into global strategies.
