What will I learn on this module?
This module will enable you to better understand the economic, institutional, accounting and financial forces influencing the development of markets and exchanges and interactions within the global business environment. This module will introduce you to analytical models and principles that will help you understand and analyse the global environment in which business decisions are made. You will develop an
appreciation for the variety of factors that influence the choices and compromises that are made in international business and the implications of these choices on businesses.
This module will help you to understand and critically evaluate globalisation, its different dimensions and the surrounding theoretical debates. The module will equip you with real-world, problem-solving skills and an understanding of academic theory that underpins professional accounting, finance and economics practice. The module will place emphasis on real-life examples and case studies to position the subjects
within the realm of professional accounting, international finance and economic studies. This will enable you to develop your entrepreneurialmindset by developing your problem solving and analytical skills.
You will study and analyse the business environment at a global level, with a focus on how this impacts the national business environment. On completion of this module you will be able to analyse the consequences of changing regulatory and cultural environments for business within the context of professional accounting, international finance and economics. Throughout the module you will develop a deep understanding of the modern economy and the role that accounting and finance play within organisations.
You will explore basic economic theories around international trade and multinational corporations. You will also gain an understanding of elementary concepts of accounting (internal and external) and auditing and how these support global capital markets. You will also learn about the financial decision-making processes at the company level in the context of the analysis of financial performance measures.
You will use this knowledge to explore the scale, scope and trends in international business activity and evaluate various methods that firms use to assess, enter and develop domestic and non-domestic markets. The module will develop your multicultural awareness and knowledge, to introduce you to fundamental principles for purposive ethical decision making.
Finally, you will explore the wider concept of accountability, for example, sustainability reporting and the “Triple Bottom Line”. You will explore issues of financial literacy and the impact of global poverty, the digital divide and the economic and social consequences of global uneven income distribution.
How will I learn on this module?
A range of teaching and learning approaches will be applied in this module. You will attend a mixture of lectures and seminars. At the start of the module you will be provided with a teaching and learning plan (TLP) which details the structure and content of the module on a week by week basis. A key focus is on group work and presenting the findings of data searches/analyses. You will be able to tailor your
presentation to suit your specific programme of study.
There will be both directed and independent learning. Directed learning will include a range of activities including pre-seminar reading and research, preparation for seminar activities and preparing for presentations. Guidance for these activities will be provided within the TLP and reinforced during lectures and through the e-learning portal. Additional independent learning is encouraged and will include reading
newspapers, business journals and watching relevant international documentaries to broaden your knowledge of individual subjects.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported throughout by the module teaching team who are available to answer your questions either in person or by email. You are encouraged to contact a member of the tutor team for additional support and guidance as necessary throughout the programme either individually or as part of your team. Due to the practical nature of the workshops, the teaching team members will facilitate and provide regular formative feedback to ensure that you are making progress throughout. You will also enjoy support from library staff with presentations. Additional experts may also come to present.
Your module is supported by the e-learning portal, which includes lecture and workshop material as well as additional resources for independent study. Your lectures will be recorded and uploaded to the e-learning portal which you will be able to access to consolidate your knowledge and develop understanding. Your electronic reading list includes core material to support your lectures/seminars.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• Demonstrate the application of appropriate quantitative and analytical techniques to a range of contemporary accounting, economic and financial issues that impact firms and the global economy (MLO1).
• To describe and analyse the influence of global regulation and environment on the business and financial world (MLO2).
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• To locate, analyse and develop reasoned arguments and conclusions from multiple sources of relevant
literature and data, using appropriate references (MLO3).
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural
awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• To understand the cultural and ethical issues faced by international businesses (MLO4).
How will I be assessed?
Formative Assessment
Formative assessment will take place through applied activities in workshop-seminars. You will be encouraged to discuss your research through peer review activities and discussions.
Summative Assessment
The module will be assessed through a combination of a 1-hour (plus 15 minutes reading time) closed book examination (50%), a programme specific 15-minute group presentation and a 1500-word group report
(50%). These 3 components are collectively worth 100% of the mark for the module.
Both assessment components will address MLO1, MLO2 and MLO3.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Relevant to Accounting, Economics and Finance students, this module will give you a strong understanding of the global business environment and the accounting, economic and financial context in which businesses operate. You’ll learn about the external business environment including institutions, markets, industries and firms, as well as analytical terms and principles that help explain their interaction within the global economy. The module will introduce you to key concepts you need for further study, and you’ll also have the opportunity to develop your own areas of interest alongside independent research skills
Course info
UCAS Code N405
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Newcastle Business School
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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