Business and Management (BSc)
Study a flexible, affordable degree with a Triple Crown accredited (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) business school.
Aston University empowers you to enhance your employability and tackle real-world problems with a curriculum enriched by strong links to industry.
Programme Overview
Our Business and Management (BSc) programme is a popular choice for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. It provides a breadth and depth of business knowledge, including the functions of management and the science of decision-making. Learn online with Aston Business School, which is part of an elite group of global business schools that hold the gold standard of ‘triple-crown’ accreditation.
Adopting a holistic perspective of applicable, real-world business practices, this programme delivers core topics from a highly integrated position, reflecting how different disciplines intersect and inform each other when faced with real business challenges.
The programme cultivates a global mindset through practice-based learning, combining international and local contexts and navigating political complexities. It is centred around mega-trend awareness, recognising ground-breaking technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence and driving forward sustainable practices. The programme adopts a cross-disciplinary approach for foundational knowledge across business functions, encouraging interdisciplinary thinking.
Triple Accreditation: Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.
Triple Gold: Aston University has been awarded Triple Gold – the highest possible rating for the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.
66th in the World: Aston University is ranked 66th in the world for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2024).
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What You Will Learn
The programme adopts a cross-disciplinary approach for foundational knowledge across business functions encouraging interdisciplinary thinking. It is delivered through diverse experiential learning engagements, incorporating live business challenges and gamified simulations, providing immersive online experiences for participants.
- Business Acumen: Understanding of the different functional areas of business and management practice.
- Problem-Solving: The knowledge to underpin theory and techniques to achieve sound analysis, design and deliver management solutions to solve problems.
- Broad Business Perspectives: The ability to gain a broad business and management perspective, including social responsibility and ethical practice in professional contexts.
- Collaborative and Independent Work Dynamics: Fostering teamwork and autonomy in professional settings.
Why Study Online With Aston University?
Aston Online offers various advantages, making it an appealing choice for prospective students globally.
Flexibility and convenience – fit your studies into your work/life balance.
Built for online – interactive, engaging, and purpose-designed curriculum available 24/7.
Affordable – spread the cost, pay monthly or in instalments, and earn as you learn.
Supported – dedicated student support and online tutors.
Expert tutors - staff with industry experience and experts in their fields.
Empowering creativity – complimentary full access to Adobe Creative Cloud tools for developing dynamic multimedia content and presentations through video, graphics and audio.
Transparent pricing – apply for free, with no hidden costs.
Ready for work and life – rigorous academic standards and curriculum focusing on the skills sought by employers (for now and the future).
Recognised for quality
Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation
I have to say, I had a great experience doing my course online.
Career Prospects
Aston graduates are among the highest-paid in the country, according to the 2023 Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO). This data shows that five years after graduation, employed Aston University graduates have the 15th highest median salary among all UK Higher Education Institutions.
Our graduates have launched successful careers at industry giants like Atos, PwC, DHL, Santander, National Grid, Nissan and more. This business and management course equips you with transferable skills that provide opportunities across diverse roles, giving you the edge in today's competitive job market.
Recent graduates have gone onto roles including:
Market Intelligence Analyst: Identifies and collects appropriate customer, competitor, economic, financial, and/or operational data.
Legal Project Manager: Manages the legal project lifecycle, from planning and organising to execution, monitoring and evaluation.
Business Development Manager: Drives business growth within a company by building a network of contacts to attract new clients, research new market opportunities and oversee growth projects.
Digital Project Manager: Overseeing and managing projects from concept creation to planning, execution, and testing.
Strategy Specialist: Dedicated to crafting and refining business strategies to drive company growth and competitive positioning.
Commercial Analyst: Scrutinising market data and financial reports to provide insights that influence pricing, sales strategies and business development.
Area Manager: Responsible for overseeing operations within a specific geographic region.
Programme Structure
Our Business and Management (BSc) programme is comprised of 12 compulsory modules aimed at building your understanding of business and managerial practices.
Each credit of study is equivalent to 10 learning hours (e.g. 15 credits reflects 150 hours of learning).
Optional modules are reviewed each year and may change to reflect the expertise of staff, current trends in research, as a result of student feedback, or demand for certain modules.
Modules
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30 credits
Establish a solid foundation in the business landscape, exploring it from both the big picture (macroeconomics) and the practical details (microeconomics). You will explore global market trends, government policies, and organisational dynamics - gaining a comprehensive understanding of the diverse factors shaping the contemporary business environment.
Marketing in the Digital Era
30 credits
Master marketing in the digital age and dive deep into the innovative marketing strategies that are influencing today's digital world. In preparation for modern business challenges, you will explore digital marketing tools, consumer behaviour in online spaces, and data analytics to gain practical insights into navigating the dynamic intersection of marketing and technology.
Business Analytics and Information Technology
30 credits
Turn data into power with this module, which aims to equip you with the skills to leverage information technology and make data-driven decisions like a pro. Explore the integration of business analytics tools and data interpretation that will enhance your skills in extracting valuable insights for effective business management in the digital age.
Business Professions
30 credits
In this module, you will crack the code of accounting and law, understanding how these crucial elements work together to navigate the business world. Delve into foundational principles of accounting, legal frameworks, and their applications in business settings. The module aims to equip you with essential knowledge for effective financial management and legal compliance in various business professions.
Stage 1 Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a foundational knowledge of business and management concepts, including an understanding of organizational structures, business environments, and basic marketing principles.
- Analyze case studies and simulations to identify business problems and opportunities, examining how various factors influence organizational decision-making processes.
- Apply theoretical models and frameworks to real-world business scenarios, displaying competency in utilizing business tools and techniques for effective problem-solving and decision- making.
- Communicate business concepts and solutions effectively, both orally and in writing, showing the ability to articulate ideas clearly and to engage with peer feedback constructively.
- Evaluate their own learning and performance, reflecting on their progress and identifying areas for development to enhance their academic and professional trajectory.
Modules
Operations and Supply Chain Management
30 credits
Enhance your understanding of operational strategies and supply chain dynamics, with a focus on optimising processes, logistics, and procurement, students explore frameworks for efficient resource allocation. The module aims to develop analytical and strategic skills for effective management in complex operational environments.
Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources
30 credits
This module delves into the fascinating interplay between human behaviour and effective organisational management. Explore HR practices, employee motivation, leadership styles, and organisational culture. You will get a better understanding of the importance of people in business and enhance your skills for managing and leading diverse teams successfully.
Financial Management
30 credits
Master the money game with strategic decisions that drive business success. Covering budgeting, risk assessment, and capital structure, you will gain practical insights into managing finances effectively. The module combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, enhancing skills critical for making informed financial decisions in a business context.
Strategic Management in Global Markets
30 credits
Stage 2 Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge from multiple business
disciplines to develop strategic solutions to complex problems, demonstrating an integrated understanding of business functions in diverse contexts. - Critically evaluate contemporary business and management practices, including
the ethical and social responsibilities of organizations in a global context, demonstrating the ability to reflect on the role of businesses in society. - Conduct research using appropriate methodologies to gather and interpret data, demonstrating the ability to create informed reports and presentations that contribute to academic and practical debates in business and management.
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills and understand how to manage projects, applying conflict resolution strategies, and evaluating team dynamics to enhance performance and achieve objectives.
- Develop reflective practice skills to be able to develop a personal plan based on self assessment and feedback, setting achievable goals and strategies for continued learning and professional growth, demonstrating readiness for the next steps in their academic and career pathways.
Modules
Digital Transformation in Modern Enterprises
30 credits
Prepare for an immersive learning experience! This module throws you headfirst into a dynamic business challenge, mirroring the real-world scenarios you will face in your career. Engage in inquiry-based learning with access to final year modules, fostering comprehensive exploration of digital transformation. This interactive approach will empower you to analyse, strategize, and innovate within evolving business landscapes.
Global Business Simulation
30 credits
Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation
30 credits
Resilience in Business Environments
30 credits
This module throws you into the real world, analyzing real-world business challenges to forge your resilience strategies. We'll integrate diverse perspectives to equip you with the adaptability and razor-sharp decision-making skills needed to navigate today's ever-changing business landscape.
Stage F (Final) Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate business strategies within a global context, employing creativity to design innovative solutions and strategic directions for complex business issues.
- Conduct research, employing methodologies to analyze data critically, and synthesizing findings to gain meaningful insights to the field of business and management.
- Exemplify ethical leadership and sound governance principles in business scenarios, evaluating the implications of their decisions and actions in relation to the wider societal, economic, and environmental impact.
- Integrate and apply comprehensive business management knowledge and skills to professional practice, demonstrating preparedness to enter the business sector with a robust set of competencies.
- Develop a personal and professional growth plan that incorporates reflective practice, showcasing a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement in their professional life.
Entry Requirements
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on all online undergraduate programmes. Please contact the Admissions team at enquires@astononline.ac.uk to check qualifications in your country.
A Levels
BBB (standard offer)
BBC (with EPQ or Core Maths minimum grade B)
BBC (contextual offer)
Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.
Alternative entry requirements
We take a holistic approach in evaluating applications. The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this programme for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire prior to application whether their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor. The Admissions team will consider both prior accredited and experiential learning.
Please contact the Admissions team prior to making your application: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
International students
Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. You can check qualifications in your country here, including equivalent qualifications from Africa, Americas, Australia, North East Asia, Europe, Middle East & North Africa, South Asia, South East Asia, and Western and Central Asia.
Have a question about our international entry requirements for online programmes? Email us at: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.
BTEC Extended Diploma – DDD (standard offer)
BTEC Extended Diploma – DDM (contextual offer)
The University also accepts the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate/BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma and BTEC Level 3 National Diploma/BTEC Level 3 Diploma for entry onto degree programmes, provided that they are studied in combination with other qualifications that are equivalent to three full A2 Levels.
31 points overall in the IB diploma with grades 5,5,5 in 3 higher level subjects.
You must also have Standard Level grade 4 in Mathematics and grade 5 in English Language.
The following T Levels are accepted qualifications for this course:
- Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction - grade D
- Digital Production, Design and Production - grade D
- Education and Childcare - grade D
- Onsite Construction - grade D
- Building Services Engineering for Construction - grade D
- Digital Business Services - grade D
- Digital Support Services - grade D
- Health - grade D
- Healthcare Science - grade D
- Science - grade D
- Accounting - grade D
- Finance - grade D
- Management and administration - grade D
- Design and development for engineering and manufacturing - grade D
- Maintenance, installation and repair for engineering and manufacturing - grade D
- Legal Services - grade D
Additional to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:
GCSE Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 and above.
Find Out If You Qualify
If you have any questions about your eligibility or the application process, please get in touch with the Aston Online Admissions Team:
Email: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
Call: +44 (0) 121 824 6374
Our office is open Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00 GMT
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