University of York

What you'll study

The programme delivers a broad foundation in key business disciplines and a structured year in industry. In early years you study core subjects such as marketing, accounting and finance, organisational behaviour, operations and supply chain, business law and the macro/business environment, together with quantitative methods and decision-making tools. Teaching typically combines lectures, seminars, case studies and group projects.

The industry variant includes a dedicated placement year between the second and final year, where students work full-time in a public, private or third-sector organisation to apply learning in a real-world context. The final year focuses on advanced management topics and allows students to select optional modules such as strategic management, entrepreneurship, digital business, sustainability and international business. You will also undertake a substantial piece of independent work – often a business project or dissertation – linked either to your placement or to an applied management topic.

Assessment is a mix of unseen and take-home exams, essays, reports, presentations and group assignments, with emphasis on practical problem-solving and communication skills.

Entry requirements

The programme normally requires successful completion of secondary education with a strong academic record. Typical offers are made at A-level (or recognised equivalents); international applicants are expected to hold an appropriate international qualification such as the International Baccalaureate or an equivalent national diploma. Applicants should demonstrate competence in numeracy and literacy; a GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics at a standard grade is usually expected.

Admissions decisions also take account of personal statements, references and any relevant work or extracurricular experience. Mature applicants and those with vocational qualifications are considered on an individual basis and may be invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers in business and management. Common graduate destinations include management consulting, marketing and brand management, human resources, operations and supply chain roles, business development and graduate management schemes in larger employers. The placement year often helps students secure graduate-level roles by providing relevant work experience, professional networks and demonstrable applied skills.

Many graduates also move into specialist areas such as corporate finance, digital business and analytics, or go on to postgraduate study and professional qualifications in fields like accounting, entrepreneurship and strategic management.

Why study at University of York

The programme is delivered by York Management School, which combines research-led teaching with strong links to employers. York offers dedicated support for placements through its Careers and Placements service, helping students find and prepare for industry opportunities. Small-group teaching, tutorial support and practical project work mean students develop both analytical and interpersonal skills valued by employers.

The university’s campus and city setting provide a supportive environment with access to enterprise hubs, business networks and a vibrant student community. The Industry variant is particularly suited to students who want the confidence and advantage that a structured placement brings when entering the graduate job market.