About the Course
Duration: 1 year (Full-time)
Start Dates: April | August | November
Locations: London | Birmingham | Manchester
Mode of Study: Full-time – Blended Learning (Daytime, Evening & Weekend, or Weekend)
Assessment Methods: Coursework and in-class tests
The Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) in Business Management is designed to provide you with essential business knowledge and practical management skills to thrive in today’s fast-changing business environment.
This one-year Level 4 qualification (equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree) covers key areas such as business operations, people management, digital business, marketing, and financial principles. It equips you with real-world skills that can be applied immediately in professional settings.
The CertHE can be studied as a standalone qualification to enhance your career prospects or as a pathway into the second year of a Business Management BA (Hons) degree.
As part of your transition into higher education, you will also participate in induction and “Stepping into HE” sessions to support your academic development.
Course Content
What You Will Study
You will complete core modules covering fundamental areas of business, including:
- Personal and Professional Skills Development (30 credits)
- Principles of Financial Accounting
- People, Management and Organisation
- Fundamentals of Business
- Data-Driven Decision Making
Optional modules may include:
For Business progression:
Digital Business and Marketing
Cultural Awareness
For Accounting & Finance progression:
- Introduction to Management Accounting
- Understanding the Business and Economic Environment
All modules are worth 15 credits unless otherwise stated.
Teaching & Learning
This programme follows a blended learning model, combining face-to-face teaching with live online sessions and digital learning resources.
You will learn through:
- Real-world business projects
- Case studies
- Practical challenges
- Workshops and seminars
- Online learning materials
This flexible structure allows you to balance your studies with personal or professional commitments.
Timetable Options
- Daytime: Two weekdays (typically 9:30am–4:30pm)
- Evening & Weekend: Two evenings (5:45pm–8:45pm) plus one weekend day
- Weekend: Both weekend days (9:30am–4:30pm)
Exact schedules are confirmed upon enrolment.
Assessment
Assessment is designed to prepare you for real-world business environments and may include:
- Coursework
- In-class tests
- Essays and reports
- Reflective journals
- Portfolios
- Presentations
- Group projects
- Business case analyses
- Practice-based projects
- Computer-based tests
Assessments focus on the practical application of knowledge and the development of professional skills.
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
- 40 UCAS points (or equivalent Level 3 qualification)
- At least one A Level or equivalent (e.g., BTEC qualifications)
English Language Requirements
- GCSE English Language grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)
- Functional Skills Level 2 in English
- IELTS 5.5 (if applicable)
Interview
Applicants will attend either an admissions or academic interview as part of the selection process.
Mature students without formal qualifications but with relevant work experience are encouraged to apply. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Please note: This programme is not currently available for students requiring visa sponsorship.
Careers & Progression
Upon successful completion of the CertHE, you can:
- Progress directly to Year 2 of a Business Management BA (Hons) degree
- Enter employment with a recognised Level 4 qualification
Career pathways may include roles in:
- Business development
- Marketing
- Human resources
- Management consultancy
- Project management
- Investment and finance support
Studying within a blended learning environment also demonstrates digital adaptability — a key skill valued by modern employers.