University of York

What you'll study

This programme blends core business and management subjects with sociological and industrial perspectives. In the first year you typically take foundational modules that introduce management, basic accounting and economics alongside units on organisations, society and research methods. In later years you build specialist knowledge through optional modules and a substantial independent project or dissertation.

• Core topics: introductory management and organisational theory, principles of accounting and finance for non-specialists, micro- and macro-economics for business, research methods and data literacy.
• Interdisciplinary themes: work and employment, industrial relations, business and society, corporate social responsibility and business ethics, regulation and public policy.
• Practice and skills: modules in marketing, human resource management, strategy and entrepreneurship develop practical skills; seminars and group work develop communication, data interpretation and project management.
• Optional and advanced study: options allow focus on areas such as globalisation, digital business, sustainability, public policy, labour markets and quantitative methods. Final-year independent research or a major project enables application of theory to real-world organisational issues.
• Learning and assessment: a mix of lectures, small-group seminars, case studies and workshops with assessment through essays, exams, presentations, group reports and an independent dissertation or project.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification such as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, or equivalent international qualifications. Admissions look for evidence of strong academic achievement and intellectual curiosity rather than a specific combination of subjects, though prior study in maths, economics, business or social sciences can be helpful.

Selection typically considers predicted and achieved grades, personal statement and references; some applicants are invited to attend an interview or assessment. International applicants must meet the University's standard English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of analytical, communication and organisational skills valued across the public, private and third sectors. Common career paths include roles in:

• business management and graduate management schemes
• human resources and people management
• marketing, sales and digital business roles
• consultancy and advisory roles for industry or government
• policy, research and roles in think-tanks or trade unions
• social enterprise and third-sector management

Many students also progress to postgraduate study in business, management, public policy, sociology or related disciplines.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment where social science and business teaching intersect, supported by established departments and research centres. You will benefit from teaching by academics active in research on organisations, labour markets and regulation, and from York's careers and placement services that help connect study with employer opportunities.

The campus provides dedicated facilities for seminars and collaborative learning, access to business and economics resources, and opportunities for student societies and experiential learning. The programme's emphasis on combining practical business skills with understanding of societal context prepares graduates to navigate complex organisational challenges.