Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The programme covers the core areas of business and management with an applied, vocational focus. Delivered over two intensive years, the curriculum typically includes modules in:

• Principles of Management – organisational behaviour, leadership, and decision making.
• Marketing and Digital Marketing – marketing theory, consumer behaviour, digital channels and campaign planning.
• Accounting and Finance for Managers – financial reporting, budgeting, investment appraisal and managerial accounting.
• Operations and Supply Chain Management – process design, quality, service operations and logistics.
• Human Resource Management – recruitment, performance management, employment relations and talent development.
• Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship – strategic analysis, business modelling and new venture development.
• Business Analytics and Research Methods – quantitative and qualitative methods for business decision making, data interpretation and use of analytics tools.
• Professional Development and Employability – personal skills, presentation, CV and interview preparation, and networking.
• Work‑based Project or Consultancy – a substantial applied project, dissertation or consultancy assignment with an external organisation or simulated business challenge.

Teaching blends lectures, seminars, case studies, group work and live projects. The accelerated format means modules run in a concentrated cycle; there is an emphasis on workplace relevance and transferable skills. Some students may have opportunities to gain professional credits or exemptions where modules align with recognised bodies such as the Chartered Management Institute (subject to availability and meeting any additional requirements).

Entry requirements

This two‑year accelerated route is designed for applicants who can demonstrate prior learning or experience equivalent to the first year of a full honours degree. Typical routes include:

• Completion of a recognised Higher National Diploma (HND), foundation degree or equivalent professional qualification in a business‑related subject.
• First‑year university credit or completion of relevant higher education study, accepted on a credit‑transfer basis.
• Mature applicants with substantial relevant work experience and professional qualifications may be considered; selection can include interview or assessment.

As with most undergraduate programmes, applicants will normally be expected to demonstrate proficiency in English and meet Bournemouth University’s general entry standards. Some applicants may also be asked to supply references and a personal statement outlining their suitability for an accelerated programme. Specific entry requirements can vary by applicant background, so checking the university’s admissions guidance or speaking to an admissions adviser is recommended.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of professional roles in the public, private and third sectors. Common career paths include:

• Operational or general management positions in SMEs and larger corporations
• Marketing executive and digital marketing specialist roles
• Human resources or people‑development roles
• Business analyst, project manager or operations coordinator positions
• Commercial roles in sales, account management and business development
• Starting or developing small businesses and social enterprises

Graduates may also choose to continue their studies with postgraduate qualifications such as an MSc in Management, MBA or specialist master’s courses, or pursue professional qualifications linked to accounting, marketing or management bodies.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University emphasises practice‑based learning and strong links with regional and national employers. Students on business programmes benefit from industry‑facing projects, guest speakers from the business community, and careers and employability support tailored to business students. The university provides modern facilities for collaborative learning and access to business resources, while the curriculum is designed to develop practical management skills alongside academic knowledge.

The accelerated two‑year format is ideal if you want to complete your degree more quickly while still gaining the applied experience and professional development opportunities that BU promotes. Support services for academic skills, placements and enterprise help students transition into work or further study on graduation.