Business Management for first-time degree seekers

Foundation year entry for supervisors, small business owners, and mature learners entering management careers in London without A-Levels.

BA (Bachelor of Arts)

BA Business Management with Foundation Year

This route can be pursued with Student Finance when you meet the official criteria.

Review the funding guide, download the UniStart app to chat with real advisors, or return to all courses if you need a different campus or schedule.

Course Description

The course focuses on real-world business practices, combining theoretical knowledge with practical projects, case studies, and simulations. You will develop the critical thinking, analytical, and decision-making skills required to thrive in today’s competitive business world. By the time you graduate, you will have built strong foundations to succeed in leadership roles across industries such as retail, finance, consulting, and technology, or to launch your own business venture. You’ll also have the option to continue your studies at the postgraduate level.

What You'll Learn

4-year degree including a Foundation Year to build academic and business fundamentals

Explore core areas such as marketing, finance, leadership, operations, and strategy

Blend of theory and practical experience through case studies, simulations, and projects

Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills highly valued by employers

Gain professional skills in communication, teamwork, and project management

Prepares you for leadership roles or postgraduate study in business and management fields

Course Structure

Foundation Year
  • 21st Century Management (20 credits)
  • Preparing for Success at University (40 credits)
  • Principles of Business (20 credits)
  • Project-Based Learning (40 credits)
Year 1
  • The Responsible Business (30 credits)
  • The Innovative Business (30 credits)
  • The Sustainable Business (30 credits)
  • The Digital Business (30 credits)
Year 2
  • Customer Acquisition and Retention (30 credits)
  • The Professional Manager and Leadership (30 credits)
  • Operations and Project Planning (30 credits)
  • Managing Finance and Accounts (30 credits)
Year 3
  • The Strategic Business (30 credits)
  • Organisational Behaviour (30 credits)
  • The Professional Project (30 credits)
  • The Business Communicator (30 credits)

Entry Requirements

Academic Route Minimum two A-Levels at grade DD or equivalent Any Ofqual Level 3 Diploma ( 58+ credits ) Minimum 32 UCAS points Non-Academic Route Pass Prepare For Foundation assessment day Minimum 2 years post-GCSE experience Mature Students (21+) Standard admission with possible interview Relevant experience considered

Don't have A-levels? No problem.

We accept equivalent European qualifications: Diploma de Bacalaureat (Romania), Matura (Poland), Abitur (Germany), Baccalaureat (France), and more. Career changers and mature students with relevant UK work experience are also welcome.

Job Prospects

Career Opportunities Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities across business sectors, both in the UK and internationally. You’ll develop critical leadership, management, and business skills that employers highly value. Potential career paths include: Business Manager – Oversee operations, drive growth, and manage teams Project Manager – Plan, coordinate, and lead projects to successful outcomes Operations Manager – Improve efficiency and manage business processes Marketing Executive – Develop and implement marketing strategies Sales Manager – Lead sales teams and drive revenue growth Entrepreneur – Start and manage your own business venture HR Officer – Manage recruitment, training, and employee relations Further study options such as an MBA or specialised business master’s degrees are also available for those who wish to deepen their expertise.

Tuition Fees & Funding

Tuition Fees

£9,250/Year

Total available per year

up to £23,297

Tuition £9,535 + Maintenance up to £13,762. You pay nothing upfront.

Don't worry about fees. Your advisor will check your eligibility and help you apply for full funding, including any additional grants you may qualify for.

Estimate your funding →

Career Prospects

Graduates go on to work in high-demand roles across the UK:

Business Manager £32-55k
Operations Manager £35-60k
Marketing Manager £30-52k
HR Manager £32-55k
Finance Manager £35-60k
Management Consultant £35-65k
Project Manager £35-58k
Entrepreneur / Business Owner £variable

Salary ranges are indicative based on UK market data. Actual salaries depend on location, experience, and employer.

How You'll Learn

Blended learning combining Canvas VLE with face-to-face workshops. Enquiry-based learning emphasising problem-solving and peer collaboration. Student Success Tutors qualified to degree level provide support. Formative feedback throughout all modules.

Assessment Methods

Written examinations (online, open/closed book), coursework (essays, reports, portfolios, presentations), practical assessments (oral and video presentations), and a final-year dissertation or extended research project.

Schedule

Full-time: weekdays and evenings. Blended learning format. Intakes in January, May, and September.

Admissions Interview

Most courses include a short, friendly admissions interview. Before your interview, your UniStart advisor will send you a personalised preparation pack - including a written guide and a video walkthrough - created by our admissions experts specifically for your course.

Students who use our preparation pack have up to a 94% success rate.

Frequently Asked

Is funding really 100% covered?
Yes, eligible students can receive full funding covering tuition fees and living costs through Student Finance England.
How long does the application take?
Most applications can be completed in 15-30 minutes using our streamlined process and expert guidance.
Can I study part-time?
Many courses offer flexible study options including part-time, evening, and weekend classes to fit your schedule.

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