University of York

What you'll study

This programme blends core business modules with modules focused on the creative and cultural sectors. In the early stages you study foundational topics such as accounting for managers, marketing principles, organisation and management, and quantitative methods. Alongside these you explore creative-industry specific subjects such as cultural policy and practice, creative project management, media and audience studies, and contemporary production processes.

As you progress you choose optional modules that reflect your interests and career goals. Typical advanced topics include strategic management for creative organisations, entrepreneurship and new business models in the creative economy, digital marketing and social media for creatives, rights, licensing and cultural law, and curated practice or production modules that cover developing, financing and delivering creative projects.

The degree emphasises applied learning: assessed coursework commonly includes business plans, marketing campaigns, pitch decks, production portfolios and collaborative projects with peers from arts or media disciplines. A placement, work-based project or a dissertation in your final year gives practical experience and the opportunity to specialise.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification such as A-levels (typical offers fall in a middle A–B range), or an equivalent vocational qualification such as BTEC National Diploma, Access to Higher Education Diploma, or international qualifications. Admissions take a holistic view, considering personal statements and relevant experience in creative practice or business activity.

Applicants whose first language is not English are normally asked to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language test; a commonly required level is in the mid 6.0s overall for IELTS or an equivalent qualification, with no element below a set minimum.

Applicants with relevant work experience in the creative industries, portfolio materials, or those applying through a foundation year are also considered. Specific module or subject prerequisites are uncommon, but evidence of both creative engagement and an interest in business (for example through extracurricular enterprise or project work) strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across commercial, cultural and public sectors. Typical entry roles include arts administrator, production coordinator, marketing or social media executive, creative project manager, box office and audience development roles, and junior business development positions within media and digital companies.

With experience, alumni progress to mid-level management roles such as creative producer, commissioning editor, cultural programme manager, brand manager or strategic roles in policy and consultancy. The degree also provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurs launching creative businesses, freelancers seeking to combine creative practice with business skills, or for postgraduate study in business, cultural policy, media studies or arts management.

Why study at University of York

Studying at the University of York gives you an interdisciplinary environment with strong links between business teaching and creative departments. You benefit from small-group teaching, opportunities for cross-department collaboration, and access to the university's careers and enterprise services which support placements, internships and start-up projects.

The campus location and active cultural scene provide opportunities to engage with local festivals, museums and creative organisations. Modules are designed to reflect current industry practice and the teaching team draw on research and professional experience in business strategy, cultural management and creative production. Practical workshops, industry guest lectures and project partnerships help bridge academic study and employability in the creative economy.