Business, management, and administrative studies | Subject guides

What's on this page?

Study options
Chat to a current business and management studies student
Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Careers: Where it can take you
Getting in: Entry requirements
Other subjects you may be interested in
Considering an apprenticeship?
Explore further
Application advice

Choosing business and management will give you a versatile skill set covering strategic planning, leadership and problem-solving, all essential for navigating the corporate world. This popular field opens doors into dynamic careers, spanning corporate management, consulting, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Armed with a degree in business and management, individuals become catalysts for organisational growth, driving innovation, leading teams, and shaping the strategic landscape of multiple sectors and industries on a global scale.

The impact you could make

Contribute to the success of businesses on a global scale.
Drive organisational success and innovation.
Advocate economic growth and job creation.

What you could study

Leadership
Finance
Marketing
Entrepreneurship
Management theory
Human resources
Strategy
Market analysis

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

Subject Spotlights powered by

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Influencing consumer behaviour: the power of the brand.
with Iraa Wimpenny from University of Sunderland
Social media marketing: going viral in the modern age
with Stuart Ailion from The University of Law

Chat to a current business and management studies student

Chat to a current business and management studies student using UniBuddy.

Some conversation starters for you:

Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?

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Finley

Lancaster University

Management and Business

I studied Business, Maths, and Computer Science at A-level at my local sixth form and achieved grades of ABC. These grades were enough to get me accepted into my first choice, Lancaster University, to study accounting and finance. However I realised during my first year that Accounting and Finance wasn’t the right course for me, and I decided to move to business management, where I really enjoyed the entrepreneurship module so decided to go into 2nd year on the Business Management (entrepreneurship) course. The current career path I am exploring is business consulting; I feel it suits my personality well and it is a well established industry. During my free time, I regularly go to the gym, and play football with my friends.

Chat with Finley
Fatima

Coventry University

International Business Management BSc (Hons)

I like making coffe , so I work in a cafe shop . I also love sports and I'm planning onto taking a graduate scheme job . Please ask me any questions you've got in mind

Chat with Fatima
Ellis

Swansea University

Business Management (Entrepreneurship), BSc (Hons)

From Birmingham but living in Swansea, I'm a huge football fan who is also, passionate about the gym and exercise. While aiming for a top spot in finance or consulting with my business degree, I'm also working to expand my own business nationwide. Balancing academic work, job hunting, and business growth, I'm all about networking. I love the social side of university, whilst not only excelling academically, i believe i have experienced huge personal growth, due to me experiences at Swansea University

Chat with Ellis
Favour

Swansea University

Business Management (Modern Languages), BSc (Hons)

Good Afternoon , My name is Favour . I am a student ambassador studying Business Management ( Modern Manguages ) and I enjoy learning about different cultures and languages. I also like business because it's quite interesting especially the marketing side , it prepares you for how to work in a corporation and equips you with many skills that will be useful in the working life , including managing people :) .

Chat with Favour
Dylan

Leeds Beckett University

Management | MSc

Hi! I'm Dylan, and i'm currently pursuing an Msc in Management. My future plan is to either get into the banking sector or marketing, With the goal of eventually becoming a business owner. I'm passionate about marketing, especially through social media, and I've recently developed a love for traveling to different parts of the UK. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about university- I'm here to help!

Chat with Dylan
Amira

Nottingham Trent University

Business and Management

I'm a second-year BA International Business student at NTU. I'm loving my time at NTU so far and I'm so happy that I decided to do International Business as I was torn between a couple of other majors while applying to uni. I know how hard it can be to make a decision about your future, so please, don't think your question isn't worth asking.

Chat with Amira
Fiza

Leeds Beckett University

Project Management | MSc

Welcome to Leeds Beckett University! I’m currently pursuing a Master of Science in Project Management, combining my technical background as an IT engineer with my passion for efficient planning and impactful leadership. Currently, I am the Community Leader for the SCPM Academic Community at Leeds Beckett Students' Union, where I work closely with peers to foster engagement, support, and professional growth. Before joining LBU, I was deeply involved in student councils and community initiatives, which sparked my love for connecting with people and making a difference. My entrepreneurial journey has allowed me to translate ideas into meaningful actions, and my experiences have shaped me into someone who thrives in dynamic, collaborative environments. As someone who values innovation and growth, my future career plans revolve around becoming a project manager in industries that resonate with my values, like sustainability, tech, and social impact. Leeds Beckett stood out for its strong focus on applied learning, diverse student community, and incredible opportunities for global networking. If you’re considering LBU or have questions about transitioning to university life, managing academics, or exploring career possibilities, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to share my experiences and help you make an informed decision!

Chat with Fiza
Frankie

UCAS [Demo University]

Business Administration

Hi there! I'm Frankie, your student ambassador from Germany. I'm here to make your university experience unforgettable! From sharing insider tips to guiding you around campus, I'm your go-to person for everything you need to know. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!

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Adeola Priscillia

Coventry University

MSc International Business Management

I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

Chat with Adeola Priscillia
Deaglan

Bournemouth University

BA (Hons) Business and Management (Finance)

My background and childhood were very active: I grew up flaying sport and especially loved football. I had various job roles before university which provided me great experience before coming to university. My passion is now for finance and I love working with numbers. My future aspirations would ideally be working within finance and/or project management, using my placement experience to gain advantage in job hunting.

Chat with Deaglan
Ciara

Leeds Beckett University

Hospitality Business Management | BSc (Hons)

Hi! I’m Ciara, I am currently in my second year studying Hospitality Business Management which I am really enjoying. Whilst being at Leeds Beckett University, I have developed my own independence, made lots of new friends and explored Leeds. I am more than happy to help with any queries you may have about university and Leeds, as well as any general questions.

Chat with Ciara
Emily

Lancaster University

Human Resources

I have always had a passion for musical theatre and completed my foundation degree in it at Trinity Laban Conservatoire in London! I now hope to continue with a career in Human Resources or perhaps even blending these two disciplines together in the future, may that be in the UK, Germany or where my travels take me.

Chat with Emily
Eseosa

Leeds Beckett University

Project Management | MSc

Hi! I’m Eseosa Osagiede, an MSc Project Management student passionate about applying project management principles to drive success. As a Global Student Ambassador, I’m here to share insights and help with any questions about studying project management or university life.

Chat with Eseosa
Avani

Lancaster University

Management

Hi, I’m Avani! I’m an MSc Management student at Lancaster University with a background in Accounting and Management. Passionate about problem-solving, I aim to build a career in consulting or investment banking. As an international student, I understand the challenges of settling in. I’ve enjoyed networking, society fairs, and cultural activities at Lancaster, and I’m excited to share my experiences to help you prepare for your journey! 😊

Chat with Avani
Charlotte

City, University of London

Business with Marketing BSc (Hons)

Hey, my name is Charlotte, I’m 20 and I’m from France originally and five years ago I moved to Morocco. I've been living in London for 2 years now for my studies! I love Musical Theatre, Formula 1 and Cheerleading.

Chat with Charlotte
Charlotte

University of Surrey

Business Management BSc (Hons)

I am a 2nd year Business undergraduate student at the University of Surrey. Alongside my studies, I also work as a part-time student ambassador which have been a great addition to my social life. As a widening participation student myself, I took part in the Summer School and AIM4University programmes at Surrey during my A-levels which aided in my decision about choosing the right course and university for me. Although I am still discovering and immersing myself in every opportunity that my course offers, if you have any further questions about the university, any degree courses at Surrey or just want to have a chat, feel free to message me on UniBuddy. If I do not have an answer to your question, I will be happy to ask students currently studying on your course to help me with providing you with as much information.

Chat with Charlotte
Bisma

Nottingham Trent University

Property Management and Development

Hi! I'm Bisma, a second year Property management & development student at Nottingham Trent University. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the school, my studies, student life or anything else.

Chat with Bisma
Benjamin

University of Lincoln

Human Resource Management Part Time - MSc

Hello I am Ben, starting a Master's in Human Resource Management at the University of Lincoln from September 2024, having just completed my Bachelor's degree in Business Psychology at the university. My future career goal is to work in the area of Human Resources, and, one day, become a manager. If you have any questions about either of the above two courses, or even about the university and university life in general, then feel free to ask!

Chat with Benjamin
Ailiya

Lancaster University

Business Analytics

As an international student from Taiwan, a small island with a rich cultural heritage, I’m excited to bring a global perspective to my role as a university buddy ambassador. Currently pursuing my studies in business, I aim to become a business analyst within the financial sector, driven by my interest in data and strategic decision-making. Beyond academics, I’m passionate about staying active with badminton and yoga training, and I find creative expression through fine art painting. Traveling is another passion of mine, and I love exploring new places and cultures, which has greatly enriched my own university journey. As a buddy ambassador, I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences and insights, supporting new students in their transition, and helping them thrive both academically and personally.

Chat with Ailiya
Chloe

University of Plymouth

BSc (Hons) Business Management

My dedicated future plans consists of continuous career development within Business Management but my final decisions on what route to go down is still undecided! The best thing about University is you have a year (or two if you complete a foundation year) to explore the different subjects to understand what you enjoy most. I have 7 years experience in Human Resources so if you want advice, I am the lady to ask! My life background has been different to say the least, but it has made me more dedicated to succeed more, and your previous life experiences does not dictate your success in you future.

Chat with Chloe

Example module

"Live client – you get given a business and have to provide an appendix either going for or not for the business to continue. I particularly like this one as it lets you give your thoughts and understanding and possibly make a chance for the business."

Second year business and management student, Oxford Brookes University

Example project

"Creativity, Design and Innovation had you create your own product then make a crowdfunding pitch for it. It let students have full control over their creative process which made the assignment really fun."

Second year business and management student, University of Winchester

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some business and management studies courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.

Maths

English

Listen to our brand new podcast all about degree apprenticeships in business and administration. Find out about funding, what day-to-day life is like, making friends, and more from our expert panel.

Hard skills you'll develop

Strategic planning
Market research and analysis
Negotiation and conflict resolution
Entrepreneurship and innovation

Soft skills you'll develop

Communication
Team collaboration
Project management
Networking

Career options

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying business and management studies. The following information is based on a typical business professional role.

Available jobs

176,178 vacancies in the past year

1.92% growth over next eight years

Average salary

£28,820

Up to £48,327

Corporate Innovation Specialist working on whiteboard with a team

What is a… corporate innovation specialist?

In this role, you'll be at the forefront of driving creativity and growth within organisations. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, your focus will be on identifying opportunities for innovation, implementing strategic initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. As a corporate innovation specialist, you'll be instrumental in helping businesses adapt to change, stay competitive, and thrive in dynamic markets.

Find your ideal career

Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study business and management studies at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from business and management studies applicants.

A levels

BBB – CCC

Scottish Highers

AABB

Vocational

BTEC DDM – MMM

Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative

Business and administration apprenticeships

Check out our industry guide to help you decide if a business and administration apprenticeship might be the right choice for you.

The expert view

Steve Jobs

Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.

Other subjects you may be interested in

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:

1

Deadline

Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.
2

Where to apply

You apply directly through the employer.
3

No limits

You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.
4

Apply to university and apprenticeships

There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.
5

Find out more

Read our guide to business and administration apprenticeships.

Apprenticeship vacancies

Check out live apprenticeship vacancies in business and management.

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around business and management studies with the following:

1

BBC One – Dragons’ Den

Be inspired by the latest entrepreneurs breaking into the business world.
2

BBC One – The Apprentice

Get an idea of what it takes to be successful in business.
3

TED Business

A series of podcasts that aim to solve business conundrums and bring new ideas in business to life.
4

Professional bodies
Follow the relevant professional bodies to keep yourself up-to-date with the latest industry news.

75%

of students studying business and management would recommend the subject to others

(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your business and management studies journey.

Skills, experiences, and interests to mention

Would you say you’re tech savvy? That’s a great asset in the business world.
Have you always been a bit of an entrepreneur? Did you have an idea as a child that made you some pocket money?
Have you delivered presentations at school or anywhere else where you’ve communicated ideas in front of an audience?

Showcase any customer service skills you’ve gained through part-time work or volunteering roles.
Show examples of instances where you took the initiative or contributed to innovative ideas.
Are you good at building professional networks and connections? That’s a great skill that all successful managers have.

Personal statement guide

We asked admissions tutors to share their dos and don’ts for writing a strong and engaging business and management personal statement. Here's what they told us.