Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The programme integrates business management modules with economics and quantitative methods. In the first year you will build foundations across business functions (management, marketing, accounting and organisational behaviour) alongside introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics and basic skills in data analysis. In later years teaching moves into applied economics topics such as econometrics, behavioural economics, public policy analysis and international trade, together with advanced management subjects including strategic management, operations, entrepreneurship and financial decision-making.

Typical module themes include:

• Core business modules: management principles, marketing, organisational behaviour, accounting and finance for managers.
• Economics and quantitative methods: microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics for economics, econometrics and forecasting.
• Applied and optional topics: behavioural economics, public policy and regulation, international economics, development economics, business ethics and sustainability.
• Strategy and practice: strategic management, innovation and entrepreneurship, project management, and a consultancy-style business project.
• Research project or dissertation: an independent piece of work in your final year combining economic analysis with a business management perspective.

The course emphasises applied learning: assessment commonly includes case studies, group projects, presentations, data analysis exercises and a substantial final-year research project. Students can often choose optional modules to tailor the degree towards finance, public sector policy, international business or entrepreneurship. Bournemouth University also typically offers a professional placement year or shorter industry placements to develop graduate-level experience.

Entry requirements

Bournemouth University looks for applicants with a good mix of academic achievement and potential for applied study. Typical entrants have completed A-levels, a recognised vocational qualification (such as a BTEC), the International Baccalaureate or an equivalent international secondary qualification. Applicants are expected to demonstrate competence in mathematics and numeracy through prior study or through a quantitative skills assessment within the programme.

Selection also takes account of your personal statement, reference and any relevant work or voluntary experience. International applicants must meet English language requirements through an approved qualification or recognised test; specific language criteria are set by the university and should be checked on the university’s admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates combine practical business skills with economic reasoning, preparing them for a wide range of roles. Common graduate destinations include business management and operations, economic and market analysis, policy or research roles in the public and third sectors, consultancy, financial services, marketing and commercial functions, and business development or entrepreneurial ventures.

The degree is also a route into sector-specific roles where economic literacy is valued — for example local and central government policy teams, economic research units, regulatory bodies, and international organisations. With further study or professional qualifications, graduates can move into specialised careers in economics, finance (including analysis and risk), or continue to postgraduate study in economics, business analytics, management or MBA programmes.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University has a strong applied orientation across its business programmes, emphasising practitioner-led teaching, real-world projects and employability. The course is delivered in a teaching environment that favours small-group learning, industry engagement and opportunities to work on live business briefs with local and national partners.

Students benefit from placement and professional practice options, dedicated careers support, and access to research and enterprise activity within the university that connects business teaching to contemporary challenges such as digital transformation, sustainability and regional economic development. The programme’s balance of management and economics equips graduates with versatile analytical and interpersonal skills valued by employers across public, private and third sectors.