Business Management (Top-Up)

The BA Business Management (Top Up) programme provides a specialist work-related programme of study that covers Applied Business Research and analysis, Human Resources Management, Project management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Independent Business project, with a focus on the development of the understanding of and practical skills required in the Business Management sector. This programme provides opportunities for learners to apply their knowledge and practical skills in the workplace and is mapped to the Chartered manager degree standards. Learners will be advised that practical opportunities for learning exist through formal work placements, part-time employment experience or employer driven live briefs. Throughout the programme learners will be given further opportunities to develop transferable skills and knowledge which should enable them to meet changing circumstances, whether this means moving within an area of employment, moving up to a supervisory or management position or adapting to general changes in the provision or environment of Business Management. The programme is designed to equip students with academic, research, analytical and problem solving skills ideally suited for a range of careers in the Business Management Industry or progression onto a level 7, master degree programme. The college recognises that a learner on this programme may be employed in either a part or full time capacity or accessing the course as part of an apprenticeship. The proposal has been shaped by demand from existing full time Level 3 students to have a local progression route and by local employers who are seeking a degree apprenticeship for their staff. Learners who have already studied with the college for their Level 5 in Leadership and management also require a progression route to Level 6. The programme is bespoke to learners in the local area. Modules have been selected to educate students within areas of local relevance. The College offers smaller cohorts than local universities, direct access to tutors and extensive pastoral support. Personal development planning ensures students are fully prepared for work following completion of the programme or that the course supports their professional development. Personal development is integrated into all modules to ensure students are fully prepared for the working environment. Role play scenarios and in class debates are used to assess students. Guest speakers and local business will be engaged in the delivery of the course. The College has close links with local businesses in different sectors of the economy and these links will be utilised throughout the programme. Assessments are varied and include presentations, collaborative work, reports, essays and a dissertation, fully preparing students for work in a business management role and allowing apprentices to demonstrate chartered manager standards. Feedback from current students, their employers (where applicable) and regional economic development priorities has been used to ensure that programme content is relevant, up to date and meeting needs of the local community. The curriculum team driving the programme are themselves undertaking masters programmes in Business management and it is this work, combined with the delivery on current Level 5 programmes that is driving the interest and development of the top up degree.

Non-native English speakers or those who have not studied the final two years of school in English must be able to demonstrate a capability in English at a standard commensurate with IELTS 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 being awarded on individual sections.