International Business and Finance

International business and finance is a degree that addresses two of the most consequential dimensions of economic life in a globalised world. International business examines how firms operate across borders, how they navigate different regulatory environments, manage cross-cultural relationships, and develop strategies for growth in international markets. Finance provides the analytical tools for understanding how money flows through the global economy, how companies raise capital and manage their financial affairs, and how financial markets operate and connect across national boundaries.

The combination is particularly relevant in a world where the activities of firms, investors, and financial institutions are increasingly international.

At the University of Leeds, this three-year full-time programme is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade, which provides a professional dimension to the degree that is directly relevant to careers in international commerce. A sandwich year, year abroad, and work placements are built into the programme, giving you substantial professional and international experience alongside your academic studies, which is particularly valuable in a discipline where employers place a high premium on practical exposure to real business and financial environments. You will develop an in-depth understanding of international business strategy, marketing, and operations alongside a thorough grounding in accounting, corporate finance, investment, and financial analysis.

Graduates go on to careers in international trade, corporate finance, banking, financial analysis, consultancy, and the treasury and finance functions of multinational companies. The combination of international business knowledge and financial expertise is valued across a wide range of organisations with global operations or ambitions. Many graduates pursue professional qualifications in finance or export and international trade, and postgraduate study in international business, finance, or management is another route for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.