Course summary

We are reviewing aspects of this course ahead of the 2023/24 academic year to ensure we provide the best possible student experience. Where we plan to make changes which have a material impact on the course, we will communicate those to you as soon as they are available. This unique programme is designed for students who have ambitions of starting their own business and want to do so in a supported environment with guidance from specialist lecturers, practising entrepreneurs and industry mentors. Taught elements of the degree will give you a solid grounding in the fundamentals of operating a business, with a focus on the entrepreneurial and the strategic skills needed to realise ideas in dynamic, international markets while practical components will focus on teaching you how to design, develop and finance your venture. This means that you'll graduate with the ability to start your own company in a wide range of markets or bring entrepreneurial thinking to an established organisation. As a Centre of Excellence for Entrepreneurship, the university has a long history in supporting entrepreneurs, especially within the rural economy. This programme is ideal for those looking to: • Diversify a rural business such as a farm or small holding; • Develop a food business; • Create an agri-food venture; • Start a retail or service business; • Build a rural fashion brand; or • Grow a social networking business. With this course you can: • Learn about idea generation, venture growth and business strategies; • Develop fundamental business skills such as financial and management accounting; • Benefit from hands-on experience of preparing business plans and presenting pitches to investors; and • Choose optional modules that will help you to develop your business management skills in areas such as marketing, organisation management, finance and supply chain management. International Study Tour As part of the 'Entrepreneur in Action' module which is taken in the first year, the entire course of students are taken on a free study tour abroad. In the last three years, students from the School of Business and Entrepreneurship have visited Spain, Bulgaria and Germany. During these study tours we visit entrepreneurs and their businesses with a view to learning the character traits of successful entrepreneurs and how these can be applied to your own personal development. All travel, accommodation and breakfasts are paid for by the University and it provides you with an amazing experience to meet agri-entrepreneurs. In the third year you will apply and develop your expertise and complete a 12 month period in the workplace. During this time students have access to a wide range of university resources including mentors, business incubator and trading opportunities. This 12 month placement is designed to enable students to complete a relevant enhanced work placement experience to help them identify future career choices and enhance relevant skills sets sought by employers. The placement allows students to develop a deeper understanding and gain further experience in a relevant business or employment area to enhance their work experience. Students are expected to experience and engage in various aspects of their chosen industry from operational to practical working. Not only could you find yourself working for prestigious companies in the UK or across the world, you will develop confidence and industry contacts for when you graduate. The programme is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Enterprise