Plymouth Business School

BSc (Hons) Business Management with Foundation Year

UCAS tariff 32+
UCAS course code N207
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time

Location Plymouth

The course starts with a foundation year 0, specifically designed to introduce and develop essential skills for success in Higher Education, including critical thinking and research skills, and the knowledge and understanding of key facets of business, accounting and economics. Upon successful completion of the foundation year, you will successfully progress on to the two-year version of the BSc (Hons) Business Management course.

Business Management with Foundation Year

Careers with this subject

Graduates follow careers in a wide range of sectors including investment and finance, technology, health, utilities, manufacturing, media, and in management roles including: human resources, marketing, operations, supply chain and procurement, and project management. 

Real experience every step of the way

As well as expert-led teaching, all undergraduate modules within Plymouth Business School have integrated CV building activity, for example, through micro-credentialing, problem-based learning, or embedded direct employer activity. 
We have ensured every module contains a real world problem-based exercise. We have reached out to employers directly to involve real business in our assessments. You will experience real world employee engagement every month. 
We know this is key to student academic and graduate success.

All organisations need managers 

Studying Business Management at Plymouth will stand you in good stead no matter what career path you follow. Our students graduate ready to face business challenges in all sorts of settings – from retail to finance and cross all public and private sectors.


Advice from graduate Christopher Cleves 

"Read around the subject you’re studying as widely as you can, watch the news and make as much use as you can of all the employability and skills development facilities at the University. What’s being reported in mainstream media can seem a little far away when you’re studying but coming to interview with a good knowledge of current affairs can help to bridge the gap between university and full-time work."

Careers service

The University of Plymouth has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks - working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the Careers Service space within the Student Hub.
We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.

Key features

  •  The foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers. Whilst completion of the foundation year will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right, you will be able to confidently progress to programmes within our suite of courses in Plymouth Business School.
  • Complete your degree in three years, entering the graduate employment market one year earlier than your peers. Demonstrate your commitment and ability to work hard and consistently, and manage your time to meet deadlines by choosing to take the fast-track route to an honours degree. You will also benefit from lower fees and a year less in terms of outlay for accommodation and living expenses.
  • We recognise that our students are unique, coming from all over the world, with different backgrounds and interests. We believe that your degree should be as unique as you are, and that you should have the flexibility to tailor your degree to your interests. Study the topics you are interested in and graduate with a specialist business management degree of your choice.
  • We appreciate that students learn in different ways. As such you will be challenged through both practical and theoretically derived assessments. You will apply knowledge to real business contexts and undertake tasks related to real world practice.
  •  Study the topics you are interested in and graduate with a specialist business management degree of your choice. Engage with areas such as our Human Resource Management specialism, which is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. 
  • Join the Devon Junior Chamber, engage with industry employers and receive training and professional mentoring.

Course details

  • Foundation year

  • Begin to develop your research skills, knowledge and understanding. Undertake independent research into an area of study that interests you. Successful completion of the foundation year ensures progression to year 1.

    Core modules

    • The World of Economics and Finance (ECN3100)

      This module will introduce you to a range of contemporary ideas within economics and finance. The module will use a range of contemporary real-world issues to demonstrate the relevance of foundation level economic and financial concepts for decision making.

    • Global Business (STO3001)

      The module will introduce the components, functions and context of a business. You will explore the impact of different models on business purpose, values, stakeholders and reporting. Aspects such as globalisation, sustainability, ethics and entrepreneurship will also be examined.

    • Introduction to Business Research (STO3002)

      The module will enable you to develop business research at an introductory level and to develop a range of academic and professional capabilities. You will investigate research topics that will develop your understanding the importance of effective cross-disciplinary understanding and collaboration.

    • Business Research Project (STO3003)

      This module allows you to integrate subject specific knowledge and skills to investigate a specific topic relevant to your programme of study through a small-scale research project.

  • Year 1

  • Gain a solid understanding of management in a business and enterprise context. Look into the ethical and sustainability issues of business, work on live case studies and with businesses, in order to develop learning and apply theory to practice. In the summer (from early June to the middle of July), you begin to learn and acquire the knowledge and skills required of a practising manager, thereby enhancing your future employability. 

    Core modules

    • Economic and Financial Data for Business Decision Making (ECN5009SU)

      Excellent business performance can only be sustained if managers have access to high quality information. This module explores economic and financial data, common management decision making techniques (e.g., processes, models, analytical methods, and information support) and analytical frameworks in the context of their role in informing key business decisions (e.g., pricing, investment, cash flow, organisational finance, research and development etc).

    • Developing Management and Leadership Competencies (HRL4001)

      This module introduces you to the practices of the manager and leader, exploring the key attributes, roles, responsibilities and challenges facing them in 21st century organisations, and the attributes, skills and competencies required to be effective. The module focuses on leadership and management practice and encourages a self /individual developmental approach, enabling you to reflect on your current and future competencies.

    • Business Culture and Behaviour (HRL4003)

      This module encompasses the internal aspects, functions and processes of organisations, including their diverse nature, purposes, structures, size/scale, governance, operations and management, together with the individual and corporate behaviours and cultures which exist within and between different organisations.

    • Managing People, Productivity and Operations (HRL5001SU)

      Operations involves the production of goods and services through the coordination of human and other resources, where these resources are managed effectively levels of productivity that provide competitive advantage may be achieved. In this module you will explore how major themes of operations and human resource management interlink to influence organisational decision making and aspects of organisational and individual performance.

    • Marketing, Enterprise and the Digital Economy (MKT4003)

      As consumer behaviour and needs change, organisations need to become more creative and entrepreneurial in every aspect. This module will provide you with the foundation knowledge of consumer behaviour in the digital world; how businesses are adapting and developing effective entrepreneurial climates, cultures and structures for long-term sustainability. You will explore the role and impact of digital technologies and how the integration of online and traditional marketing techniques can be successful.

    • Business and Management External Environment (STO4001)

      This module introduces students to essential understanding and competencies in the dynamic and changing nature of business and the consideration of the future of organisations within the global business environment, including the management of risk and business resilience.

  • Summer modules/placement year

  • Gain valuable on-the-job experience through an optional placement year after your first or final year. Supported by a dedicated team, you undertake a paid placement within a public or private sector organisation, or you may even decide to set up your own business.

    Core modules

    • Placement Year (PBS600PLC)

      The placement year consists of an extended period of appropriate professional experience in a business or organisation. It allows the student to gain relevant experience to consolidate their studies and prepare for final stage study and employment after graduation. Students on BA International Business may also or alternatively undertake a study placement at an approved partner institution.

  • Final year

  • Enhance your employability and understanding of professional development and career planning. Hone your decision-making, project planning and research skills. Tailor your degree by studying topics of interest and graduate with a specialist qualification. During the second year, you increase your understanding of strategic management and complete a research project in an area of your choice. You also have the opportunity to undertake a live consultancy project or reflect on your industry experience. 

    Core modules

    • Honours Project (PBS6000)

      The module gives you the opportunity to investigate in-depth a specialist academic or practice-based topic for which you have a passion for knowing more within your field of study.

    • Strategy and Leadership (STO6003SU)

      This module brings a problem-focused view to Strategy, Leadership and their interaction through Strategic Leadership. Particular consideration is given to strategic analysis, the development, evaluation and implementation of strategies and appropriate styles of leadership which facilitate this. The ethical and moral responsibilities of leaders will be critiqued, along with the development of relationships between organisational decision makers, leaders, and followers, within businesses.

    • Enterprise, Innovation and Creativity (STO6004SU)

      The module will enable you to use creative processes to develop an innovative and viable business concept and to pitch for resources from potential stakeholders.

    Optional modules

    • Contemporary HRM (HRL5002)

      In this module, you will focus on exploring the management of human resources in modern organisations operating in complex environments.

    • Human Resource Management in a Global Context (HRL5003)

      This module introduces you to the consequences of globalisation for workers and how they are managed, the particular people management issues confronted by multinational corporations (MNCs) and the human resource management systems adopted in different national contexts.

    • Managing Change (HRL5004)

      This module considers the importance of change management and how it can be achieved and sustained. You will examine how change affects organisations and the individuals who work within them. You will go on to evaluate the means by which change can be analysed and implemented, considering the interactions between strategy, policy, human resources, and the organisational environment.

    • Contemporary HRM (HRL6002)

      In this module, you will focus on exploring the management of human resources in modern organisations operating in complex environments.

    • Human Resource Management in a Global Context (HRL6003)

      This module introduces you to the consequences of globalisation for workers and how they are managed, the particular people management issues confronted by multinational corporations (MNCs) and the human resource management systems adopted in different national contexts.

    • Managing Change (HRL6004)

      This module considers the importance of change management and how it can be achieved and sustained. You will examine how change affects organisations and the individuals who work within them. You will go on to evaluate the means by which change can be analysed and implemented, considering the interactions between strategy, policy, human resources, and the organisational environment.

    • Experiential Practice (HRL6010)

      This module provides you with the opportunity both to reflect upon practical experience as well as develop your capabilities and profile so you are on course for life after graduation.

    • Marketing for a Digital World (MKT5003)

      In this module you will examine the impact of new forms of digital technology on all aspects of the modern marketing mix, organisational strategies and consumer facing activities. You will examine new approaches for segmentation, targeting and positioning to generate sales through a digital lens. This module further aims to provide a greater understanding and awareness of the relationships between marketing and digital technology.

    • Strategic Marketing Management (MKT5004)

      The module is designed to provide business students with an understanding of the essential elements of the marketing management process. It explores the way in which marketing strategies can be developed and implemented in business organisations, and the relationship between marketing, other functional areas of management and the external environment. It will address the potential impact of current issues on the marketing process.

    • Marketing for a Digital World (MKT6003)

      In this module you will examine the impact of new forms of digital technology on all aspects of the modern marketing mix, organisational strategies and consumer facing activities. You will examine new approaches for segmentation, targeting and positioning to generate sales through a digital lens. This module further aims to provide a greater understanding and awareness of the relationships between marketing and digital technology.

    • Strategic Marketing Management (MKT6004)

      The module is designed to provide business students with an understanding of the essential elements of the marketing management process. It explores the way in which marketing strategies can be developed and implemented in business organisations, and the relationship between marketing, other functional areas of management and the external environment. It will address the potential impact of current issues on the marketing process.

    • The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business (PBS5001C)

      Through this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.

    • The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade (PBS5002C)

      In this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.

    • The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action (PBS5003C)

      Through this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.

    • Project Management (STO5001)

      This module provides insight and application into key aspects of successful project management and the project management lifecycle.

    • Responsible Global Enterprise (STO5002)

      The module will focus on the management of global enterprises in a responsible way. You will consider the various forces within the local and international environments that are likely to influence firms’ expansion activities, including location choice, entry mode, internationalisation patterns and growth strategies. You will also explore the pros and cons of globalization, the emerging trends in deglobalization, fair trade practices and responsible foreign direct investment (FDI). Finally, you will examines the costs and benefits of offshore outsourcing as a part of global supply chain management and in the context of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

    • Project Management (STO6001)

      This module provides insight and application into key aspects of successful project management and the project management lifecycle.

    • Responsible Global Enterprise (STO6002)

      The module will focus on the management of global enterprises in a responsible way. You will consider the various forces within the local and international environments that are likely to influence firms’ expansion activities, including location choice, entry mode, internationalisation patterns and growth strategies. You will also explore the pros and cons of globalization, the emerging trends in deglobalization, fair trade practices and responsible foreign direct investment (FDI). Finally, you will examines the costs and benefits of offshore outsourcing as a part of global supply chain management and in the context of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

    • Business Consultancy (STO6005)

      This module focuses on exploring and understanding a range of theoretical approaches to developing strategies for businesses and applying these principles to a live consultancy project. You will have the opportunity to gain experience of working with a business on a consultancy basis, either in a research or strategic development setting. You will engage with a client business to mutually identify a suitable project and develop findings and guidelines to inform a new strategic direction.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

BSc Business Management with Foundation Year Programme Specification Sep23 6665

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

32+

18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
PPP-MMP in any subject.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
International Baccalaureate
24-25 overall. English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4, Standard Level = 5.
IELTS
If overseas & not studying English within IB – Must have IELTS: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in all elements.
Access courses
Pass access course (any subject) plus GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4 or above or equivalent.
T level:Pass in any subject.
New Irish Highers:From 2017 32-80 points.
City and Guilds Level 3: We will accept with a minimum of Merit overall alongside a good GCSE profile, including English and Maths grade C / 4.
Cyprus Apolytirion:15/20 to 16/20 overall to include a pass in Maths and IELTS: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in all elements.
GCSE
GCSE’s or equivalent: Maths and English at Grade C/4 or City and Guilds; Key Skills Level 2 will be considered on an individual basis.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary. 

Fees, costs and funding

Foundation year 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £9,250 £9,250
Overseas £16,300 £17,100
10 credits £770 £770

Year 1 and final year 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £11,100 £11,100
Overseas £19,100 £21,500
10 credits £950 £950

Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding .

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs.

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2023/2024 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2023/2024 is £1,385.
Learn more about placement year tuition fees 

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs.

How to apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). 
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code. 
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Meet our experts

  • Lecturer in Finance
    Expert in corporate finance and co-inventor of the Cost Carbon Calculator
  • Lecturer in Economics
    Expert in macroeconomics, microeconomics and international trade
  • In-sessional Academic Manager and EFL Lecturer
    Expert in developing writing confidence and fluency
  • Lecturer in Human Resource Studies/Leadership
    Expert in leadership, contemporary ethical issues in leadership and management
  • Lecturer in Human Resource Studies/Leadership
    Expert in HR management and business
  • Lecturer in Marketing (Education)
    Expert in online marketing, facilities management, leisure and catering
  • Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Business Operations & Strategy
    Expert in using management modelling, simulations and games to promote learning
  • Associate Head of School for Teaching, Learning and Quality
    Expert in French language and culture

Fitzroy Building

The University of Plymouth is creating an exciting new space for the Plymouth Business School in which current and future students can foster the knowledge and enthusiasm that they will need to achieve their ambitions. Work is underway at the heart of our city centre campus. 
Watch our video visualising what the new building will look like. 

A stepping stone into the world of HR

Nadine Mashingaidze graduated from BSc (Hons) Business Management and MA Human Resource Management before before moving into a role as a HR Manager.
"I thought with my degree I could only stay in a specific field, however I was able to branch out and receive career guidance to understand that I don’t have to be so boxed and confined when looking for a job. Studying at Plymouth opened my mind up to the opportunities available."
Nadine Mashingaidze circle

Plymouth Business School