Business Courses in the UK

Learn how to use and apply key business concepts and techniques on a UK business degree

A business course in the UK is an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that focuses on preparing students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the world of business.

The structure of business courses in the UK varies depending on the institution, but typically, undergraduate business degrees in the UK are three years in length, while postgraduate degrees, such as an MBA, can take between one and two years to complete. The curriculum of business degrees in the UK is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in business principles, management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

In addition to classroom learning, business courses often include practical experience through internships, work placements, and industry projects. This hands-on experience allows students to apply the theory they learn in the classroom to real-world situations and gain valuable skills that will help them succeed in their future careers. Many UK universities have strong relationships with businesses and organisations, providing students with access to industry events, guest speakers, and networking opportunities.

Studying business in the UK is an excellent choice for international students looking to gain a high-quality education and valuable practical experience in a highly respected field. With its world-class universities, strong business connections, and globally recognised degrees, the UK offers a wealth of opportunities for students looking to succeed in the world of business.

The modules taught on a business degree in the UK will generally cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics and entrepreneurship. Many courses also offer the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of business, such as human resources, international business, or digital marketing. Business degrees also include modules that focus on developing key skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Business degrees are assessed using a variety of methods, including exams, coursework, group projects, presentations, and case studies.

Business Course Tuition Fees

The average international tuition fees for business degrees in the UK vary depending on the university and course type, but generally, students can expect to pay around £18,000 to £25,000 per year.

Business Course Duration Length

Most undergraduate business degrees in the UK last for three years, while postgraduate courses generally last one year full-time and two years part-time.

Types of Business Degrees

Business Management

A business management course provides students with a broad understanding of business principles and practices, as well as skills in management and leadership. Courses are designed to prepare students for careers in various industries, including finance, consulting, marketing, technology, and healthcare, among others. Graduates of a business management course are expected to have a solid foundation in business principles and practices, as well as strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

Business Administration

A business administration course provides students with an understanding of management related problems and the tools required to analyse and evaluate management issues. Studying a business administration degree will help you understand more about the historical, political, cultural and institutional forces shaping modern business. Business administration courses help support future business learning.

International Business

An international business course is a degree that focuses on the principles and practices of conducting business globally. The curriculum typically covers topics such as global markets, international trade policies, cross-cultural communication, foreign exchange, international finance, and global supply chain management. Students may also learn about the legal, political, and economic factors that impact international business operations.

The courses are designed to prepare students for careers in multinational corporations, international trade organisations, government agencies, or consulting firms.

Master of Business Administration

A Master of Business Administration is designed to prepare students for leadership positions in a wide range of industries, including finance, consulting, marketing, technology, and healthcare, among others. MBA graduates are expected to have a deep understanding of business principles and practices, as well as strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

MBA courses typically require applicants to have a bachelor's degree and some professional experience. Admission requirements may also include standardised test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays.

Business Course Careers

Business graduates work across almost all sectors, including finance, marketing, HR, retail, technology, manufacturing and engineering, non-profits and healthcare. Common business jobs that students move into include:

• Management consultant
• Marketing executive
• Human resources officer
• Accountant
• Financial analyst
• Business analytics
• Investment banker
• Sales executive
• Project manager
• Operations manager

Business Course Salary

The average starting salary for new graduates in the UK is around £30,000 per year but can range from £40,000 to £100,000 per year or more as more experience is gained.

Business Course Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for international students applying to study business at a UK university will vary depending on the institution and the specific course. However, some common requirements include:

• Academic qualifications: International students must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as specific grades and subjects required for the course they are applying to. For example, many universities will require applicants to have studied mathematics at a certain level.
• A-level requirement: Most universities will require applicants to have at least 3 A-levels, with specific requirements for grades and subjects. For example, a typical requirement for a business course might be ABB, with at least one A-level in a relevant subject such as mathematics or economics.
• IB requirement: For students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB), most universities will require a total of 34-38 points, with specific requirements for grades in individual subjects. For example, a typical requirement for a business course might be 6, 6, or 5 in Higher Level subjects, including at least one Higher Level subject in a relevant subject such as mathematics or economics.

International students whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate their English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test such as Pearson or IELTS. The minimum required score will vary depending on the university and the specific course but typically ranges from 6.0 to 7.0 on the IELTS scale.

Where can I study Business in the UK?

To learn more about the best business courses in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Business universities in the Guardian University Guide 2024 below:

1. University of St Andrews
2. University of Oxford
3. London School of Economics and Political Science
4. University of Warwick
5. University of Bath
6. Loughborough University
7. University of Manchester
8. University College London
9. University of Edinburgh
10. Lancaster University

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