Mandarin Course Will Develop International Business Skills

A new course at City College Plymouth will help students with an interest in business and a flair for languages to build skills that are needed across the globe.

The new course, International Business with Mandarin, is a foundation degree that has been developed with, and is awarded by, Plymouth University. It is the first of its kind in Plymouth and the South West, and offers students the chance to learn an exciting and important language.

With more than 1.25 billion speakers, Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in the world. Learning to speak, read and write the language is a hugely important skill for students hoping to go into the world of international business.

The foundation degree teaches students about business in Europe, Asia and the Americas, as well as the language and communication skills to enable them to do business with China. China has the fastest growing major economy in the world, and is the largest exporter and second largest importer of goods.

Kevin Burrows, higher education lecturer at the College, said: “According to the Confederation of Business Industry, nearly half of employers who need staff with language skills are looking for people who can speak Mandarin. This is a direct response to the rapid rise of Chinese economic activity and trade, and many companies are looking to expand further afield to help counteract difficult conditions in Europe. Business leaders have also highlighted the need for knowledge and global awareness of the wider business world.”

City College Plymouth is well placed to offer this degree programme as it capitalises on already strong links with China, with over 100 Chinese students studying for business-related degrees. The course offers a four-week work placement in China, where students are able to put their skills into practice. After completing the foundation degree, students may be eligible to progress onto the final year of the BA (Honours) Business Administration or BA (Honours) International Management degrees at Plymouth University.

To find out more information about the course, visit www.cityplym.ac.uk or call 01752 305300.