Online Diploma in International Trade Policy

Gain the strategic knowledge to analyse and respond to emerging challenges in international trade, and understand the complex mechanisms that drive international trade and policy.

Trade policy has become much more complicated, driven by changes in technology and digitisation, the rise in geo-political tensions, and increased concern with issues such as climate change, sustainability and human rights.

This module focuses on the core economic drivers, and the legal framework underpinning the dynamics of international trade policy. Understanding these is central to navigating the complex, rapidly changing global trade landscape. It covers the fundamentals of trade policy including the evolution of patterns and globalisation, the barriers to trade and their impacts, the legal foundations of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the complexities of regional trade agreements. It also addresses one of the key current challenges in the global economy by considering the critical issue of economic security.

Gain the tools to navigate complex issues related to sustainability. Learn to mitigate risks and seize opportunities in the pursuit of a resilient and sustainable global economy.

Issues of sustainability, ranging from climate change, global warming, environmental concerns, bio-diversity and deforestation are increasingly at the forefront of public, business and policymakers’ concerns. Global demand for environmental goods and services is expected to rise as countries implement economic stimulus packages that include greater resources for climate-friendly solutions.

This module explores the complex relationship between international trade and sustainability, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic forces shaping today’s interconnected economy. The topics covered include global value chains, supply chain resilience, environmental policies, food security, and the transition to a circular economy. Participants will examine how trade impacts on these areas of concern, and the role of trade in tackling environmental challenges and fostering sustainable practices.

Examine attitudes to trade and the role of trade and trade policy on both ‘winners’ and ‘losers’ of trade, covering keys issues such as labour standards, human rights, gender and medium-sized enterprises.

Trade impacts on all of us in a myriad of ways. As consumers it impacts the goods and services that are available to us, as well as their quality, and their price. For businesses and their workers it impacts on both on productivity and economic growth. There is considerable evidence to show that international trade is important for economic growth and raising living standards overall. Trade may also have negative consequences for some and different impacts on different firms. This can also affect public perceptions and views on international trade.

This module focuses on understanding globalisation and the effects of trade on individuals and the wider socio-economic effects of trade. The module will cover the ‘winners’ and ‘losers’ of trade, the links between trade and inequality, and the impact on less developed countries’ trade policies, as well as addressing issues related to fair trade. Participants will examine the attitudes to trade and the role of trade and trade policy with regard to key issues such as labour standards, human rights, gender, and small and medium sized enterprises.

Understand how rapid technological developments are shaping international trade and policy.

This module will rapidly increase your understanding of the technological developments shaping international trade and trade policy. This includes how trade impacts productivity, growth and innovation. Further it analyses the blurring of boundaries between goods and services trade, and examines the role of digitisation, digital trade, 3D printing and AI underpinning world trade. It discuses key issues related to digitisation including data protection and intellectual property rights. It also covers trade agreements on digital trade and the WTO Joint Initiative on e-commerce.