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Course overview
The Level 5 Diploma in International Trade examines the ability of the student to manage the broader managerial aspects of International Trade and make the right decisions when problems arise.
The Level 5 Diploma in International Trade is the core strategic qualification for international trade professionals. Designed to fit around a full-time career, with online study supported by tutors.
On successful completion of the Level 5 Diploma, students will qualify for Graduate Membership of the Chartered Institute and will be entitled to use the suffix of MCIEx (Grad).
Recognition
Study method
- Online
- Virtual
- Blended
- In-class
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Duration study load
- 15-18 months
Delivery
All study is delivered through Supported Distance Learning, with access to tutor support via video calls, phone or email.
Entry requirements
You can enter the Level 5 Diploma in International Trade if you are:
- 19 years of age or over and have successfully completed the Level 4 Diploma in International Trade (formerly Advanced Certificate in International Trade/ACIT).
- Candidates with an existing Degree from a recognised University and/or more than 5 years’ experience in international trade will be considered for direct entry to the Level 5 Diploma.
Assessment
Each module is completed by means of a written assessment.
Students are required to complete a 3000-word report for the first three modules. A 4000-word report is required for the final project module.
Each assessment is linked to the practical application of international trade procedures in the working environment.
Students are allotted six weeks to conduct research and finalise each module assessment.
Subjects
This module has been designed to provide a broad knowledge and understanding of the role and importance of logistics in an international context. It will focus on areas of international logistics and purchasing processes, such as cost-effective means of exporting and importing, management and planning of Customs regulations and facilitation of logistics and supply-chain systems.
By the end of this module, students will be able to maximise the effectiveness of an organisation’s distribution strategy and global sourcing policy and be able to confidently approach UK import and export regulations.
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:
Learning Outcomes
1. Understand the importance of having robust logistics and distribution strategies when trading internationally
2. Understand the importance of developing robust quality systems when purchasing and trading internationally
3. Understand the importance of robust materials handling activities when trading internationally
4. Understand import and export procedures when trading internationally
Assessment Criteria
1.1 Evaluate the importance of performance measures in developing robust logistics and distribution strategies
1.2 Discuss how the organisational structure affects the development of good business processes when trading internationally
1.3 Discuss the importance of having robust quality management systems when trading internationally
1.4 Analyse environmental concerns when trading internationally
2.1 Critically evaluate the importance of establishing terms and conditions when purchasing and trading internationally
2.2 Critically evaluate the role of insurance, transport and payment terms when purchasing and trading internationally
2.3 Analyse local and international standards in sourcing and dispute resolution when purchasing and trading internationally
3.1 Critically evaluate the role of materials handling and packaging
3.2 Analyse and evaluate information systems for materials handling activities
3.3 Critically evaluate warehousing functions when trading internationally
4.1 Discuss Revenue and Customs procedures and documentation in own organisation
4.2 Discuss export and import regulations
4.3 Analyse the impact of international and EU compliance requirements when trading internationally
This module will enable students to develop marketing strategies, including market selection, market entry, the marketing mix and organisational aspects relating to international marketing.
Students will learn how to identify the strategic decisions required for international marketing operations, outline planning processes and explain the strategic issues involved in selecting and entering international markets. Students will be able to explain the relevance of organisational structures, evaluate appropriate methods of trading and marketing internationally, manage effectively the elements of the marketing mix and successfully market development.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:
1. Understand the importance of marketing strategies when trading internationally
2. Understand the essential components of a marketing strategy when trading internationally
3. Understand the importance of strategic planning when developing international markets
Assessment Criteria
1.1 Evaluate the importance of a robust export marketing plan for trading internationally
1.2 Critically evaluate the marketing mix strategies when trading internationally
1.3 Discuss the importance of managing cultural differences sensitively when trading internationally
2.1 Discuss the essential factors of a marketing strategy when trading internationally
2.2 Critically evaluate the control and evaluation of marketing plans when trading internationally
2.3 Discuss how the organisational structure affects the development of a marketing strategy when trading internationally
3.1 Discuss the importance of strategic planning when developing international markets
3.2 Analyse the suitability of different types of markets when developing a marketing strategy for international markets
3.3 Discuss investment issues when developing a market strategy for international markets
This module has been designed to enable students to use appropriate techniques of corporate strategy and management in an international context, such as identifying and setting up effective structures for corporate management, explaining the importance of international financial strategies and pricing policies, recommending suitable sources of trade finance, managing the risks of currency trading and suggesting appropriate methods to establish effective business development.
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:
Learning Outcomes
1. Understand the importance of having robust business development processes when trading internationally
2. Understand the importance of developing robust pricing policies that are supported by organisational financial strategies
3. Understand the importance of corporate management systems to successful international trading
Assessment Criteria
1.1 Evaluate the importance of the power of brands in developing international trade
1.2 Discuss the role of recruitment and selection of staff and the use of local resources when trading internationally
1.3 Discuss the importance of communicating globally and the role of relationships and networking
2.1 Critically evaluate attitudes to risk and return on capital when trading internationally
2.2 Analyse the range of finance and insurance options when trading internationally
2.3 Discuss multi-currency trading in relation to trading internationally
3.1 Analyse management structures in relation to cultural sensitivities
3.2 Critically evaluate attitudes to exchange rates, risks, corporate taxation and VAT in the context of trading internationally
3.3 Analyse the organisation of payment and banking settlement options when trading internationally
Drawing from the knowledge, skills and learning gained from Level 4 and Level 5 modules, students are required to select and propose a work-based project which involves an international trade issue or problem.
With tutor support and self-directed research, students are required to investigate, analyse and provide managerial recommendations in the form of a professional, written report.
Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate how to assess an international trade issue
2. Demonstrate how to manage the implementation of an international trade project
Assessment Criteria
1.1 Assessment of an international trade issue using your business, or a business, with which you are familiar
1.2 Collect, record, analyse and interpret data in a logical and informed manner
1.3 Develop and evaluate a range of recommendations and conclusions
2.1 Negotiate, plan, research and carry out a programme of learning and assessment in an area of international trade
2.2 Transfer the appropriate knowledge and skills learnt from a range of international trade subject areas
2.3 Work through self-directed study, with minimal supervision, to complete a written project report
About The Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade
Become a Future Leader in International Trade
Turn knowledge into real-world trade expertise
If you’re looking to build a career in international trade, customs, or global logistics, our academy gives you the skills and confidence to succeed. We don’t just teach theory — we help you develop practical, job-ready expertise that employers value.
Choose from industry‑recognised customs and trade qualifications, along with hands‑on training programmes designed to accelerate your professional development.
Every course is led by experienced international trade specialists who bring real‑life insight directly into your learning. Our training is practical, engaging, and built to help you apply your new skills from day one.
Flexible learning options are available, including live online classes, self‑paced eLearning, and tailored in‑house programmes. However you choose to study, you’ll gain the knowledge to advance your career and make an impact in the world of global trade.
