Commerce (International Business)

The Bachelor of Commerce in International Business at the University of Otago offers students a comprehensive and globally oriented education in the dynamic field of international trade, finance, marketing, and management. This programme is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, analytical skills, and cultural competencies necessary to succeed in the increasingly interconnected world economy. Throughout the course of their study, students will explore core business principles while gaining specialised insights into international markets, global supply chains, foreign investment, and cross-cultural communication. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with practical components such as internships, overseas exchanges, and industry projects, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world settings. Emphasising critical thinking and strategic decision-making, the programme prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in multinational corporations, government agencies, NGOs, and international consulting firms. Students will also develop language skills and cultural awareness, which are vital for navigating the complexities of global commerce. The close ties of the University of Otago with international businesses and institutions provide students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to industry trends. With flexible study options and a strong foundation in business theory and practice, the Bachelor of Commerce in International Business aims to cultivate adaptable, innovative, and globally conscious graduates ready to make an impact in the global marketplace.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3191 Year (National)
• EUR 15772 Year (International)

International: 24,530NZ$. National:4,963.00NZ$

• English

Course Content

Every degree programme

* Note: These papers should normally be completed before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers.

100-level

• BSNS 102 Quantitative Analysis for Business
• BSNS 107 Understanding Accounting
• BSNS 108 Business Finance
• ACCT 102 Principles of Accounting

Grades of at least C+ are normally needed in order to proceed to 200-level ACCT and ACFI papers.

BSNS 103 Marketing and Consumption, BSNS 104 Principles of Economics 1, BSNS 105 Management and Organisations, BSNS 106 Information and Communication in Organisations, must normally be taken before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers

200-level

• ACCT 211 Financial Accounting and Reporting
• ACCT 222 Cost and Management Accounting
• ACFI 201 Corporate Financial Decisions

300-level

• ACCT 302 Accounting Performance Management, or ACCT 307 Management Accounting
• ACCT 310 Issues in Financial Reporting, or ACCT 315 Advanced Financial Accounting
• One further 300-level ACCT paper
• One further 300-level ACCT, ACFI or FINC paper

Plus

• 90 further points; must include 54 points at 200-level or above.
• May be taken from outside Commerce

Every BCom programme must include BSNS 102-108. 100-level BSNS papers need not all be taken in the first year of study; all 100-level BSNS papers must normally be passed before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers.

STAT 110 or STAT 115 will be accepted as an alternative to BSNS 102 as a required paper or as part of the major subject requirements or as a prerequisite when:
(a) the paper has been passed before the student has enrolled for a BCom degree; or
(b) a student is enrolling for both a BCom and another degree for which STAT 110 or STAT 115 is required.

Total 360 points

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 58 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 80

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

NCEA National Certificate in Educational Achievement

• 10 Level 2 credits in approved literacy (5 in reading, 5 in writing)

CIE Cambridge International Examinations

• Grade E or better in AS English

IB International Baccalaureate

• English at Higher or Standard level in Language A: literature, or Language A: language and literature; or at Higher level in Language B

NZUEBS New Zealand University Entrance Bursaries and Scholarships

• English mark of 46% or higher

IELTS International English Language Testing System

• 6.0 in academic module (with no individual band below 6.0)

TOEFL (paper based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 550 Test of Written English 4.5

TOEFL (internet based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 80 (with a Writing score of 20)

CPE Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English

• Minimum of 50

CAE Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English

• Minimum of 58

APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination

• Grade 3 or higher

University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd

• Successful completion of ‘English for Undergraduate Academic Purposes’ paper

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

• Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The Bachelor of Commerce (International Business) at the University of Otago is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to excel in the global business environment. This degree combines core business disciplines such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management with a specific focus on international trade and global market dynamics. Students gain an understanding of the complexities of conducting business across different cultures, legal systems, and economic environments. The program emphasizes strategic thinking, cross-cultural communication, and international market analysis, preparing graduates for careers in multinational corporations, international consulting firms, and global trade organizations.

Throughout the program, students have access to a range of experiential learning opportunities, including internships, overseas exchange programs, and projects with real-world clients. The university’s strong connections with business industries and global partners allow students to build networks and gain practical insights into international business operations. The curriculum also includes modules on international trade policies, cross-border financial management, and international marketing strategies, providing a well-rounded foundation in global commerce.

The program typically spans three years of full-time study and incorporates both theoretical and applied learning components. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a global mindset—traits that are highly valued in today’s interconnected economy. The international business focus is complemented by optional courses that allow students to tailor their degree to specific interests, such as emerging markets or digital commerce.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Commerce (International Business) are well-prepared to pursue careers in areas such as international sales, logistics, market research, and business development. They also have pathways to further study, including postgraduate programs in international business, diplomacy, or management. The University of Otago’s vibrant campus environment, diverse student community, and emphasis on student-centered learning contribute to an enriching educational experience that prepares students for success in a globalized world.