About

This Foundation Year provides you with an introduction to both the theoretical and practical dimensions of business and management.

The programme blends theory and practice to develop your understanding of management practice and is aligned to the principles of responsible management and sustainability goals.

A Foundation Year offers a transition into university life, bridging the gap between earlier forms of education and undergraduate degrees in Business. This programme will introduce you to a wide range of business issues, ranging from strategy and marketing to entrepreneurship and responsible management, whilst placing these topics within the broader context of academic and career development.

The curriculum aims to enhance your employability and career readiness as the modules blend skills and knowledge in a practical environment. This incorporates learning data analytical skills, acting ethically and responsibly in business and understanding how to lead business organisations within a global context.

Why choose Northumbria to study Business and Management?

Business and Management is ranked 9th in the UK for research power (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 51 places, the largest rise in the sector.

Business Studies at Northumbria is ranked 6th in the UK (Daily Mail University Guide, 2025).

You will join the Newcastle Business School, which holds double accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in business and accounting.

According to AACSB, “Approximately 6% of the world's schools offering business degree education have achieved AACSB accreditation, demonstrating a commitment to high-quality, rigorous standards, innovation, and continuous process improvement”. Read more about our 'double' AACSB Accreditation.

This accreditation reflects our academic excellence and commitment to developing individuals to achieve their potential through professionally relevant, research engaged education.

What can I progress onto after my foundation year?

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will be able to progress onto one of our Level 4 Business degree programmes

Alternatively, students may progress to one of our Accounting and Finance courses (subject to agreement):

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2025/26

Standard Entry

96 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas or the International Baccalaureate

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo

Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course

GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4 or C, or the equivalent.

Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course

International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match those shown above. If you have taken qualifications outside the UK you can find out how your qualifications compare by visiting our country page www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:
International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

English Program Requirements

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Career

How does this foundation course help with employability?

At Newcastle Business School, we have excellent links with local, national and international organisations. Through guest lectures and live projects, our students gain a knowledge and understanding of what it is like to work in industry. Employability is embedded throughout the Business and Management Foundation Year, providing you with the skills and knowledge to be career ready by the end of your degree.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will be positioned to automatically progress onto level 4 study. Your progression course will then build upon the skills gained throughout the yearlong foundation course, preparing you for future employment.

Business and Management Foundation Year