Level 4 Diploma in International Trade

Learn about the practical aspects of international trade with our Level 4 Diploma in International Trade.

The Diploma in International Trade is the core operational qualification for international trade professionals. Designed to fit around a full-time career, with online study supported by contact with tutors, webinars, video sessions and podcasts.

You'll get a detailed knowledge of all the principles, procedures and documentation you need to know for a successful career in international trade.

The Level 4 Diploma in International Trade consists of four modules:

The Business Environment

This module has been designed to provide a broad knowledge and understanding of the conditions under which international traders must operate their business and how business is affected by changes in the political, economic, social, and technological environment both nationally and internationally. Students will also be provided with a basic knowledge of the law relating to international trade with a focus on the law of contract, sale of goods and agency law.

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

1. Demonstrate the impact of a range of significant economic conditions on international trade

2. Understand the range of Economic measures currently active in the UK economy

3. Understand the main features of Law relating to international trade

4. Assess customer actions from a legal viewpoint

Finance of International Trade

This module provides students with an understanding of the keys to profitability in their business, and the most appropriate sources of finance to maximise such profits. Students are also required to evaluate and attempt to reduce the various risks that are common to all international trade, including exchange risk and country and buyer credit risk and to choose and operate the most appropriate methods of payment.

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

1. Understand the impact of a payment process on the finances of a company trading internationally

2. Understand the range of options currently available to finance international trade

3. Understand the main financial risks attached to trading internationally

International Marketing

This module introduces the basic marketing concept and the principles and practices of international marketing developing an understanding of the part culture plays in the sales process. Students learn to interpret the market environment, carry out appropriate research, analyse information accurately and devise appropriate marketing plans for the international environment.

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

1. Understand the key marketing elements which lead to international trade success

2. Apply current marketing theories to practices in international trade

3. Understand effective international market research and analysis processes

International Physical Distribution

This module addresses the merits of the different modes of transport, including factors relating to the choice of transport, provides an understanding of the different Incoterms, and recommends the appropriate term for a company’s international business. Students will also learn to manage the administration of a company’s international trade, understanding a range of documents and their functions and appreciate the need for correct packing and insurance of goods, as well as having an effective relationship with international service providers.

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

1. Understand the regulatory framework behind the shipment of goods in international trade

2. Understand the range of options currently available for the transportation of goods internationally

3. Know the commercial insurance coverage available to international traders

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 - these include videos and webinars that you can join. Most importantly, 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 90 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

Each module is completed by means of an assessment linked to the practical application of international trade in the working environment. The length of the assessments vary by module ranging from 2300 word assessments to 3000 words. Students have 6 weeks to research and complete the assessments.

All study is delivered through Supported Distance Learning, with access to tutor support via phone or email.

International trade professionals who wish to have a professional qualification on their CV.

You can enter the Level 4 Diploma in International Trade if you are 18 years of age or over and have 4 GCSE/GCE O Levels A-C Grades including English Language and 1 A level or equivalent OR have NVQ Level 2 in International Trade Services OR 21 years of age or over with 3 years practical experience in international trade.

After you have passed the Level 4 Diploma in International Trade you can apply for Associate Membership of the Institute, use the suffix of AMIEx and proceed to the Level 5 Diploma in International Trade Qualification.