Level 3 Certificate in International Trade

Broaden your awareness of global trade issues and get a clear understanding of the processes and practicalities of International Trade.

This introductory level qualification aims to help people get started in international trade; no formal qualifications are required for entry on this course.

Designed to fit around a full-time career, with online study supported by contact with tutors, webinars, video sessions and podcasts.

The Certificate in International Trade consists of four modules:

Fundamentals of International Business

A student will learn to distinguish between different types of channels of distribution applicable to different types of products and services; describe the financial objectives of business; identify the sources of finance for business; explain the basic concepts of financial accounts and the nature of costs and profit; explain the elements of the banking system, how it works globally and how money is transmitted; identify the origins of exchange risk and the basic methods of managing such risk.

By the time you have finished this module you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the different types of business structures which can operate in international markets

2. Know various techniques which a business may employ to move into an overseas market

3. Explain the importance of money and banking to international trade

Introduction to International Trade Management

A student will learn to describe the basic elements of a business plan and the processes of implementation; explain the ‘marketing concept’; identify the main elements of the ‘marketing mix’; list the main sources of information both inside and outside companies; describe the methods available for collection of information; create, use and analyse information in the form of spreadsheets; explain the basic elements of business finance with particular relevance to cash flow; identify the legal issues within business operations; explain the main elements of contract law; explain the role and importance of INCOTERMS 2010; list the current INCOTERMS and the respective duties of the seller and buyer.

By the time you have finished this module you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the Marketing concept and its related strategies

2. Know the legal aspects of international business operations

3. Understand the role and importance of Incoterms

Global Marketplace

Students will learn to distinguish between developed and developing countries; identify the major religions and languages and main centres of population; identify the main trading blocs in global trade; describe the origins, objectives and future developments of the European Union; analyse the structure of the UK Balance of Payments; list the UK’s main export markets; explain the basic structure and function of the Internet.

By the time you have finished this module you will be able to:

1. Understand the major regions of the world using a range of economic and cultural criteria

2. Demonstrate comprehension of the development, policies, and role of the European Union in comparison with other world trading blocs

3. Detail the structure of the UK Balance of Payments, and describe the UK's main export markets

International Transport and Documentation

List the main elements of the export order process from the original enquiry to payment collection; describe the roles of the main third parties involved in international trade i.e. carriers, forwarders, Customs, banks, insurers etc.; tabulate the main elements of an export quotation in the form of a pro-forma invoice; identify the cost elements in a DDP export price; list the main methods of international transport and the factors which affect their selection; explain the functions of Bills of Lading, Waybills and Certificates of Shipment; describe the requirements of HM Customs & Excise regarding export and import declarations; list the different types of export invoices used and the importance of description, origin and value to Customs authorities; explain the basic operations of cargo and credit insurance policies; list and explain the operation of the various methods of payment used in international trade.

By the time you have finished this module you will be able to:

1. Know the costs of the main methods of transporting goods internationally

2. Understand the roles of the key documents required when transporting goods internationally

3. Know the different payment methods in international trade

4. Understand the operation of cargo and credit insurance policies

Study Commitment

We know that everyone studies in different ways so our programme allows time for you to research and read papers and articles as well as using the learning materials we supply online. We also provide you with a subject specific tutor for each module who will be able to guide you in your learning.

As a rough guide you should expect to study for around 70 hours for each of the four modules. Because we understand that work and home life sometimes can cause distractions and disruption to your study, we allow you up to 4 years to complete the qualification however, the usual period of study is between 12-15 months.

Assessment

You will be expected to submit a written piece of work following each module. Assessments usually comprise of a 1600 word report linked to the practical application of international trade in the working environment. Students have 6 weeks to research and complete the assessment.

It is ideal for those who are new to international trade or those with no formal qualifications who would like to have an international trade qualification on their CV.

No formal qualifications are required for this course.

After completing the Level 3 Certificate in International Trade you may wish to study for the Level 4 Diploma in International Trade.