BA (Hons) Business and Management

Welcome to the Business and Management programme

Our BA (Hons) Business and Management degree is designed for ambitious students who want a flexible and supportive way to study.

With just one day a week on campus across three years, this degree offers a practical route into business leadership, management and entrepreneurship, without the traditional full-time university timetable.

Whether you are currently working, balancing other responsibilities, or focusing fully on your studies, you will develop the knowledge, confidence and real-world skills employers value in a way that fits around your life.

You will benefit from supportive teaching, industry insight and practical learning that prepares you for a wide range of career opportunities in today’s business world.

Course IntroductionModulesEntry RequirementsGraduate CareersAdditional

Your profile

You are motivated, ambitious and ready to invest in your future. Whether you are starting your career, looking to progress at work, changing direction or planning to launch your own business, this course is designed to help you achieve your goals. You may be balancing study alongside work, family or other commitments, so flexibility and support are important. With just one day a week on campus, this degree offers a practical and accessible route into higher education and professional development.

Your subject

Business is at the centre of every industry, from technology and media to healthcare, retail, sport and finance. Behind every successful organisation are people with the skills to lead teams, manage projects, solve problems and make strategic decisions. A degree in Business and Management will help you develop a broad understanding of how modern organisations operate and succeed. You will explore key areas of business while building practical skills in communication, leadership, teamwork, analysis and professional practice. The knowledge and experience gained throughout the course can prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities across both the public and private sectors, helping you develop the confidence and adaptability needed in today’s evolving business environment.

Your course

Our BA (Hons) Business and Management degree combines academic learning with practical industry insight to prepare you for the modern workplace. You will develop both personal and professional skills while gaining a strong understanding of key business functions including leadership, marketing, finance, strategy, project management and business operations. The course is designed to help you build confidence in decision-making, communication, problem-solving and professional practice, skills that are highly valued across a wide range of industries.

Teaching is delivered by experienced lecturers and industry professionals, giving you valuable insight into current business practice and helping you connect theory to real workplace situations. With a flexible study model of just one day a week on campus across three years, the course is designed to support students balancing study with work, family or other commitments.

Your future

Whether in a management position or in charge of your own unique business venture, you will graduate ready to quickly and effectively contribute to an organisation’s success. On graduating, you will join an illustrious list of University Centre Colchester alumni who have gone on to have prosperous careers in global business management, marketing, business analysis, project management and finance.

The BA (Hons) Business and Management degree is delivered over three years and is designed to provide a flexible and supportive approach to higher education.

Students study 40 credits per term across three terms each academic year, building towards a total of 360 credits required for an honours degree. Each module contributes to your overall development and combines scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activities.

The course is delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical learning activities, helping you apply academic theory to real business situations and professional practice.

Teaching is informed by current research, industry engagement and professional experience, ensuring the course content reflects developments within the modern business environment.

Students can choose to study the full BA (Hons) qualification or complete the Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE), which recognises successful completion of the first year of study and can act as a progression route towards the full honours degree.

Course Introduction Year One (Level 4) Year Two (Level 5) Year Three (Level 6)

BA (Hons) Business and Management

80 UCAS points* plus GCSE maths and English (grades A*-C) or equivalent or Access to Higher Education Certificate. Mature applicants without the above criteria will be interviewed to assess academic suitability.

CertHE Business and Management

32 UCAS points* plus GCSE maths and English (grades A*-C/9-4) or equivalent or Access to Higher Education Certificate. Mature applicants without the above criteria, but have significant experience or are employed within industry, will be interviewed to assess academic suitability.

*UCAS Tariff points where shown, are for entry on to higher education programmes starting from September 2026.

International applicants

If English is not your first language you will need an IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking), or an equivalent English Language qualification.

Additional requirements for International Students:

You must provide evidence of having been in general education for at least 10 years and of having studied within the last five years
a face-to-face or video call interview is required before an offer is made

BA (Hons) Business and Management graduates are equipped with the knowledge, practical skills and professional confidence to pursue careers across a wide range of industries and sectors.

The course develops highly transferable skills in leadership, communication, strategic thinking, problem-solving and professional practice, helping you stand out to employers and prepare for the modern workplace.

Graduates may progress into careers within management, marketing, project management, operations, business analysis, human resources, finance and wider business support functions across both private and public sector organisations.

Throughout the course, you will also develop valuable professional and workplace skills through industry-informed teaching and real-world business insight.

Credits gained through successful completion of the programme may also contribute towards entry requirements for further professional study and postgraduate qualifications.

Timetables: Timetables are normally available one month before registration. The BA (Hons) Business and Management degree is delivered through a flexible timetable designed to support students balancing study alongside other commitments. Scheduled teaching typically takes place on one set day per week throughout the academic year, allowing students to plan their studies around work, family and personal responsibilities.

Teaching and Learning: You are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars and practicals. Seminars enable smaller group discussions to develop understanding of topics covered in lectures.

When not attending lectures, seminars and practicals or other timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-directed study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, learning zone or technical learning resources, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations

Assessment: The course provides you with opportunities to test your understanding of the subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally contains at least one piece of practice or ‘formative’ assessment for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark.

There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. Assessment methods include written examinations and a range of coursework assessments such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations and your final year major project. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Feedback: You will receive feedback on all practice assessments and on formal assessments undertaken by coursework. Feedback is intended to help you learn and you are encouraged to discuss it with your module tutor.

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UCAS Tariff Calculator

BA (Hons) Business and Management

Level	Level 6
Location	Colchester
Duration	3 Years
UCAS Code	N100
Academic Year	2026-2027
Campus / Adult Skills Centre	University Centre Colchester
Start Date	September 2026
Applications	Applications for September 2026 are open now
Attendance	1 day per week
Fee(s)	2026-27: £8,995 per year
Awarding/Validation Body	University of East Anglia

Course Introduction

This course prepares you to succeed in today’s fast-changing business environment by combining academic knowledge with practical, real-world application. Throughout the programme, you will develop an understanding of how organisations operate while building the professional skills needed to respond to modern business challenges with confidence.

A key feature of the course is its focus on applying learning to realistic business situations. You will be encouraged to reflect on practical and workplace-based experiences, helping you connect theory to professional practice and develop critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills.

The BA (Hons) Business and Management degree offers a supportive, flexible and career-focused route into the world of business. You will gain insight into areas such as leadership, management, strategy, communication and business operations, while developing the confidence and adaptability valued by employers across a wide range of industries.

The course is designed to prepare graduates for careers across both the public and private sectors, with teaching informed by professional practice, industry engagement and current developments within the business world.

Year One (Level 4)

Module: Management Concepts and Academic Practice (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module will introduce you to a wide range of management models and theories, and you will start developing academic writing, critical thinking, and presentation skills.

What do I learn?

You will learn how to describe the activities, techniques and objectives that characterise the main functions of management, and assess the organisational contexts that managers operate within. You will be taught through a combination of traditional lectures, seminars and class activities including group investigations, analyses and experiential learning activities.

What’s the assignment?

There are two forms of assessment in this module: an essay to show understanding of management theory, and a report relating to organizational behaviour.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Managing Business Information (20 credits)

What’s it about?

You will be equipped with the skills needed to work with the data you will encounter in business organisations.

What do I learn?

You will be supported to upgrade your skills in the use of business application software and the key numerical and statistical techniques for working with data, so that you are equipped students to understand, manage and present business information. You will also learn about legislation relevant to this area.

What’s the assignment?

There is a self-study element which will allow you to assess your own level of competence in practical IT and develop appropriate areas of skill, producing an ePortfolio to evidence your development. You will also write a report that demonstrates both knowledge and IT skills.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Strategic Business Analysis (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module will allow you to understand the external and internal influences on organisations and the effects of these on business practices and internal aspects of organisational life.

What do I learn?

You will learn how to place organisations in context (past, present, and future), then employ recognized tools to analyse the macro, micro and internal business environments in which businesses operate. You will be introduced to contemporary business issues as they arise.

What’s the assignment?

You will write a report to demonstrate your understanding of the material in relation to a particular organization, and you will take part in a group video project.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Introduction to Financial Management (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module introduces the key principles of accounting and finance and explains how financial information supports business decision-making. You will explore how organisations manage money, assess financial performance and make strategic financial decisions.

What do I learn?

You will learn how to interpret financial statements, analyse accounting ratios, understand cash flow and working capital, and evaluate sources of finance. The module also introduces risk management, corporate governance and the role of financial markets within the business environment.

What’s the assignment?

You will write a report which includes calculations and analysis and complete a one and a half hour examination.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Key Themes in Marketing (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module introduces the core principles of marketing and examines how organisations use marketing strategies to build relationships with customers and achieve competitive advantage. You will explore contemporary marketing challenges in both traditional and digital environments.

What do I learn?

You will study the marketing mix, market research, consumer behaviour, segmentation and targeting, branding, pricing and promotional strategies. You will also explore global marketing and develop an understanding of how marketing plans are created and applied in practice.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a one hour online examination and produce a marketing plan for a real organization.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Contemporary Business Proposal (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This practical module develops the knowledge and skills needed to create and present a viable business idea. You will explore entrepreneurship, business planning and start-up strategy while developing a proposal suitable for potential investment.

What do I learn?

You will learn how to analyse markets, identify competitive advantage, create marketing and sales strategies, develop financial plans and evaluate business risks. The module also explores e-commerce, business operations, contingency planning and professional business communication.

What’s the assignment?

You will deliver a business proposal presentation and produce a formal business plan supported by market research and financial planning.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Year Two (Level 5)

Module: Managing and Leading Projects (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module develops your understanding of project management and leadership within a business environment. You will explore how projects are planned, managed and evaluated while developing practical team working and leadership skills through live project activity.

What do I learn?

You will learn about project planning, stakeholder management, risk management, scheduling, budgeting, communication and leadership within projects. You will also explore project management tools such as Gantt charts, critical path analysis and project management software, alongside reflective management practices and team development.

What’s the assignment?

You will deliver two group project management presentations based on a live project and complete an individual reflective report evaluating your project management and teamwork skills.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Corporate Economics (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module introduces the principles of management accounting and financial decision-making within organisations. You will explore how businesses use financial information to support planning, budgeting and investment decisions.

What do I learn?

You will learn about budgeting, forecasting, cost accounting, investment appraisal, break-even analysis, absorption costing and variance analysis. The module also develops your ability to analyse and critique management accounts using practical business case studies.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a formal examination and a report focused on budgeting, costing, forecasting and investment appraisal techniques.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Continuous Improvement and Lean Leadership (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module explores lean leadership and continuous improvement within organisations. You will examine how businesses use lean principles to improve efficiency, eliminate waste and create greater customer value.

What do I learn?

You will learn about lean principles, statistical process control, value stream mapping, visual management, process improvement and lean culture development. The module also introduces investigative and analytical tools used to support continuous improvement within organisations.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a single assignment analysing organisational processes and applying lean leadership and continuous improvement techniques to a business scenario.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: International Business and Globalization (10 credits)

What’s it about?

This module examines the international business environment and the impact of globalisation on organisations. You will explore how businesses operate across international markets and respond to global political, economic and cultural influences.

What do I learn?

You will learn about international trade, multinational enterprises, global marketing, international finance and cross-cultural management. You will also analyse international business strategies, ethical considerations and the opportunities and challenges associated with globalisation.

What’s the assignment?

You will work with students from Brussels to deliver a group presentation analysing the feasibility of setting up an international business. You will also complete an individual report recommending and justifying an international business strategy.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Professional Development (10 credits)

What’s it about?

This module supports your personal and professional development by preparing you for employment within the business sector. You will reflect on your skills, career goals and workplace readiness.

What do I learn?

You will develop employability skills including CV writing, interview techniques, career planning, professional communication and reflective practice. You will also explore workplace structures, professional standards and the expectations of employers within the management sector.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a career development portfolio including a CV, cover letter, mock interview activities and personal development planning, alongside a reflective report evaluating your professional development and workplace readiness.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Applied HR Practice (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module develops your understanding of human resource management and the practical processes involved in recruitment, selection, performance management and employee development within organisations.

What do I learn?

You will learn about HR planning, recruitment and selection, job analysis, assessment centres, equality and diversity, employment legislation and performance appraisal. The module also explores current HR practices within the UK legal framework.

What’s the assignment?

You will take part in assessment centre activities and complete and complete an assignment focused on recruitment, selection and human resource management practice.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Information Systems and Business Intelligence (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module explores how organisations use information systems and business intelligence to support decision-making and business strategy. You will develop practical skills in database design, information management and business data analysis.

What do I learn?

You will learn about business intelligence, management information systems, database design, querying and reporting, decision-making models and systems implementation. You will also develop practical skills in designing and presenting a prototype database solution for a business context.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete business intelligence and database coursework, including a report and the development of a prototype information system solution for a business scenario.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Year Three (Level 6)

For level 6, you will complete a combination of core and optional modules. You will carry out a major project related to an issue relevant to your organization. The project will contribute to your degree and will also be presented as part of your final assessment for the degree programme.

Module: Implementing Business Strategy (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module develops your understanding of strategic management within a realistic business environment. You will work through evolving business scenarios, analyse strategic challenges and develop operational and strategic responses to support organisational success.

What do I learn?

You will learn about strategic management theories, mission and vision development, stakeholder management, supply chain strategy and corporate social responsibility. The module also develops leadership, teamwork and reflective management skills through simulated business activities.

What’s the assignment?

You will deliver a strategic business presentation based on an evolving business case scenario and complete an individual reflective report evaluating your strategic decisions, teamwork and professional development.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Research Methods (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module develops the research knowledge and skills required to prepare for your Dissertation. You will learn how to design and plan business research projects using appropriate research methods and academic approaches.

What do I learn?

You will learn about different strategies and methods that can be used in business and management research, and will consider the influences that affect the choices made. The work completed through this module will act as preparation for your Dissertation.

What’s the assignment?

You will produce a research proposal for your Dissertation, supported by a research presentation.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Applied Research Project (40 credits)

What’s it about?

This module gives you the opportunity to complete an independent research project focused on a real business problem agreed with an organisation. You will apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course to investigate, analyse and solve a business issue.

What do I learn?

You will develop advanced research, project management and analytical skills through conducting primary and secondary research, reviewing literature, analysing data and producing professional research findings and recommendations.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete an independent applied research project and produce a final Dissertation based on a real business issue.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Innovation and Strategic Change (20 credits)

What’s it about?

This module explores how organisations manage innovation and respond to strategic change within modern business environments. You will examine how businesses adapt to technological, cultural and organisational challenges while maintaining competitiveness.

What do I learn?

You will learn about innovation management, change management models, organisational culture, resistance to change and risk management. The module also explores how businesses use innovation and technology to support long-term development and transformation.

What’s the assignment?

You will deliver a presentation analysing external and internal stimuli for change within an organisation and complete a report evaluating change management strategies and organisational responses to change.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Optional Modules – You will be required to complete one from the following optional modules.

Module: Digital Marketing: Strategy and Practice (20 credits) Optional

What’s it about?

This module develops your understanding of contemporary digital marketing and how organisations use digital tools and platforms to engage customers and build competitive advantage. You will gain practical experience in creating digital marketing content and online business platforms.

What do I learn?

You will learn about digital marketing strategy, social media marketing, SEO, e-mail marketing, website development, customer engagement and integrated marketing communications. You will also develop practical skills in creating a professional website using a content management system (CMS).

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a digital marketing report and develop a prototype business website, which you will present as part of an assessed presentation.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Module: Leadership and Reflective Management (20 credits) Optional

What’s it about?

This module encourages you to become a reflective practitioner and develop the leadership skills needed within contemporary organisations. You will explore leadership theories, reflective management and personal development planning while evaluating your own leadership style and professional growth.

What do I learn?

You will learn about reflective practice, leadership theories, emotional intelligence and leadership development. The module also develops self-awareness, reflective writing and leadership evaluation skills.

What’s the assignment?

You will complete a leadership and reflective management report, including reflective evaluations, leadership audits and a personal development plan focused on your professional and leadership development.

Want to know more?

To see the module description, please click here.

Disclaimer

All Fees and prices shown on the website are for courses starting in the 2025-26 academic year and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

The course information describes programmes offered by University Centre Colchester at Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. University Centre Colchester at Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.