A complete guide to business and management degrees

Considering your next academic or career move but still unsure what direction to take?

You might want to consider a degree in business and management. With the UK’s thriving entrepreneurial scene witnessing a surge in new business registrations, the appeal of this field is undeniable. 

However, with numerous courses and universities to choose from, deciding what degree is right for you requires thoughtful deliberation. Fear not, we’ve put together everything you need to know about research, selecting, joining, and using a business degree. 

What is a business and management degree? 

A business and management degree typically encompasses the study of various aspects of business operations, strategy, finance, marketing, human resources, and organisational behaviour. It aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate in today’s global economy, emphasising analytical thinking, decision-making skills, and leadership qualities. 

Such programs often offer opportunities for practical experience through internships or real-world projects, preparing graduates for diverse roles in industries ranging from finance and consulting to entrepreneurship and corporate management.

Are there different types of business and management degrees? 

Yes, there are various types of business and management degrees available, catering to different career paths and areas of specialisation within the field. Some common types include Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), specialised master’s degrees such as Master of Science (MS) in Management, Finance, Marketing, or Operations Management, as well as doctoral degrees like Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or Ph.D. in Management. 

Additionally, there are certificate programmes and short courses focused on specific skills or industries within business and management. These programmes offer flexibility for working professionals or individuals unable to attend traditional on-campus classes, allowing them to pursue higher education while balancing other commitments.

How can you earn a business and management degree?

Like any undergraduate degree, you will need to meet certain entry requirements before you can apply. They will differ by university, so do check the course you’re applying for to see what they expect from applicants. 

Common must-haves:

• A Levels: AAA-CCC – (including a pass in science if taken at A Level) 
• BTECs: *DD – MMM
• Scottish Highers: AAAAB – BBBB (Advanced Highers: AAB-BBB) 
• International Baccalaureate: 38-26

Common nice-to-haves:

• Good grades at maths GCSE (or equivalent)
• A Level (or equivalent) in the additional subject for combined degrees
• Relevant work experience in a business field
• Online courses or MOOCs for expanding business knowledge
• Business knowledge (from books, TED talks, podcasts, etc.)
• Attended business summer schools (e.g. Sutton Trust or UNIQ) 

All of your qualifications and grades are turned into UCAS points. UCAS is the website where you apply to study your chosen course. Universities will ask for different UCAS points to apply. For a Business & Management degree, you’ll typically need between 96-200 UCAS points from subjects you’ve studied.

How long does it take to complete a business and management degree?

The duration to complete a business and management degree varies depending on the level of the program and the individual’s pace of study. Typically, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration takes around three to four years for full-time students, though it may be completed faster through accelerated programs or if the student has transfer credits. 

A Master’s degree such as an MBA generally takes one to two years for full-time students, but again, this can vary based on factors like program structure and student workload. Part-time, online options are also available, which can extend the duration of the program, but offer greater flexibility.

>> Explore our collection of online MBA degrees

How much will a business and management degree cost?

Typically, Business & Management degree fees range from £14,000 to £30,000 per academic year. However, these will vary by course and university.

Business and management degrees for overseas students

International students typically pay between £15,000 to £37,000 per academic year to study a business and management degree in the UK.

However, there are a variety of funding options available:

• Scholarships and grants: Numerous scholarships are available, both merit-based and need-based. Universities, government bodies, and private organisations all offer financial support to eligible students.
• Student loans: Government-backed loans are accessible to UK and EU students, providing financial assistance with favourable repayment terms. However, international students may need to explore private loan options.
• Employer sponsorship: Some employers support employees in pursuing further education by sponsoring their degrees. This can alleviate financial burdens on individuals

What jobs can you step into as a business and management degree graduate?

A business and management degree is incredibly versatile, opening up doors for many different roles in a variety of industries for new graduates, from corporate management to consulting to entrepreneurship. These are just some common career paths:

• Business analyst
• Business adviser
• Business development manager
• Chartered management accountant
• Civil Service Fast Streamer
• Corporate investment banker
• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Forensic accountant
• Insurance underwriter
• Management consultant
• Operational researcher
• Project manager
• Risk manager
• Stockbroker
• Supply chain manager

Is a business degree worth it?

Absolutely! A business degree allows you to work in virtually any industry because you gain so many universal and transferable skills, from hard, technical skills in project management, financial planning, and HR, to practical soft skills, like communication, critical thinking, and leadership.

What are some business degree benefits?

Wide range of opportunities

If you haven’t decided whether you prefer marketing, HR or business operations, you can explore them all. Then focus on specific interests as the course progresses.

A growing market

With increasing globalisation and a changing business landscape there’s a rising demand for students who understand the complexities of the shifting business world.

High earning potential

Graduates typically start off earning £19,000 – £25,000. The average salary for a Business Manager in the UK is £53,913. This can then rise to £70,000 or more for a senior.

Postgraduate opportunities

Many graduates decide to continue their studies with a postgraduate course. Reasons vary from progressing on the career ladder, specialising in a certain area, or moving into academia. Studying a postgraduate course in this field can boost your earning potential. According to HMRC data, on average Masters graduates in Business Management earn £14,800 per year more than Bachelors graduates – almost 50% higher.

Is a business and management degree right for you?

Deciding whether a business and management degree is right for you involves considering your career goals, interests, and personal circumstances. 

If you aspire to work in business-related roles such as management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship, a business and management degree can provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to excel in these fields. 

Business degree programmes often offer flexible options, including part-time, online, or evening classes, allowing you to balance your education with work or other commitments. 

Additionally, a business degree equips you with a diverse set of skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and leadership, which are highly valued by employers across industries. Networking opportunities

What’s the benefit of taking a business and management degree online?

Online undergraduate degrees are a great option if you’re looking for flexibility and cost-effectiveness. You can study from anywhere and work around your degree to lower the impact on your finances. Online courses often leverage innovative technologies, the latest learning tools, and global networking opportunities.

Take your next step with an online degree with FutureLearn

FutureLearn’s online degrees are designed to make learning work for you. You still come away with the same qualifications as those studying onsite but have the freedom to tailor your studies around your commitments.

Whether you aspire to lead a multinational corporation, launch a startup, or specialise in a niche field, all of our online degree programmes ensure you can tailor your education to align with your career goals and interests.

Browse our collection of online business and management degrees.