Course summary

Our undergraduate degrees with a foundation year are an alternative entry route into university for those without more traditional qualifications or grades, or are entering university after a notable period of time out of education. The programme offers support and guidance in developing the skills required for degree-level study. The foundation year will focus specifically on communication (oral and written), critical thinking, research, independent study, digital and employability skills. The modules are designed to embed the development of these skills within the broad areas of business, communications, humanities and social sciences. Students will study and research the fundamental principles of the business environment, and the functioning of global cities and the economics of globalisation. Successful completion of the foundation year will allow progression onto our Business Management programme. New businesses are the lifeblood of most developed or developing economies. They’re needed by established companies, whether as a supplier offering exciting new inputs or as new ventures within the company. Governments are very keen to stimulate the creation of new businesses and support them, as they are often key to developing regions or creating jobs in areas with high unemployment. Perhaps most importantly, you might want to start a business because you have a passion for creating something new. To start and make a success out of your own business it’s not enough just to have a great idea, you need to manage it well. If this is your ambition, you’ll need to learn a wide range of entrepreneurial concepts and skills. Our Business Management and Entrepreneurship course will prepare you to become innovative, teach you how to manage new ideas and how to apply learning to creating a new business. We aim to give you practical experience through our extensive placement and mentoring programmes, which will equip you with hands-on skills and guidance from industry professionals. A placement year enables students to undertake a year of experience in an organisation between their second and final year. It is a substantial piece of paid experience where you can make a real contribution to your employer and it can really make you stand out from the crowd! Securing a placement can really help you develop your job search skills and the Employability Service placement and careers teams can support you to find and apply for available opportunities. You will need to attend some preparatory workshops which will explain all aspects of the placement year and give you the skills to find the placement of your choice. With access to our jobs board, careers events and employer contacts you will be able to approach companies confidently and find the right opportunity for you. Please note: in the event that you cannot secure a placement you will be able to transfer onto the 3 year version of your degree programme.