Business

Entry Criteria

Entry Requirements

For 2021 entry, you should have:

• At least one A level pass with appropriate supporting GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above
• A BTEC National Certificate or Diploma, or a GNVQ Advanced, in any discipline
• AVCE Single/Double Award in any discipline
• Any qualification deemed equivalent to the above

Successful applicants will also be required to complete a diagnostic literacy and numeracy assessment prior to enrolment.

Prior Learning and Experience

University Centre St Helens intends to recruit students from a varied range of backgrounds and experience. Offers of a place on this HNC will not be based solely upon academic qualifications alone and related skills gained in the workplace will also be considered.

Additional Entry Requirements

All suitably qualified applicants will be invited to attend an interview. This is designed to be an informal meeting, providing you with the opportunity to see if the HNC is suitable for your needs. It will also provide an opportunity for you to discuss and explore your career interests with the Programme Leader.

Information for International Applicants

If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, you may need to apply for a Tier 4 visa in order to enter and study in the UK. However, please note that University Centre St Helens does not hold a Tier 4 Sponsor Licence to support student visa applications.

Modules

Modules

Business and the Business Environment (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to provide you with background knowledge and understanding of business, the functions of an organisation and the wider business environments in which organisations operate. You will examine the different types of organisations, including commercial and not for profit organisations, their size and scope and how they operate. You will also explore the relationships that organisations have with their various stakeholders and how the wider external environments influence and shape business decision-making.

Marketing Essentials (15 credits)

Providing an introduction to the principles of marketing, this module enables you to develop an understanding of key elements of the marketing mix and develop a basic marketing plan.

Upon successful completion, you will be able to confidently explain the role of marketing as both a standalone and interrelated function, comparing ways in which organisations use elements of the marketing mix to achieve overall business objectives, before developing their own marketing plan.

Human Resource Management (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to enable you to appreciate and apply principles of effective Human Resource Management (HRM). People are the core of any organisation and being able to attract, recruit and retain talented staff lies at the very heart of HR activity.

As part of this module, you will explore the tools and techniques used by HR departments as they work to gain competitive advantage. You will also gain an understanding of the importance of training and development, the growing importance of becoming a flexible organisation and become familiar with techniques of job design and reward systems.

Management and Operations (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to help you to understand the difference between the functions of a manager and the role of a leader. You will consider the characteristics, behaviours and traits which support effective management and leadership, whilst also beginning to understand the theories and concepts of operations.

Completion of this module will provide you with the confidence to differentiate between the role of a leader and the function of a manager, whilst applying the roles and responsibilities of both in specific contexts.

In addition, you will be able to demonstrate an appreciation of the role leaders and managers play in the operations function of an organisation, demonstrating an understanding of the relationship between leadership and management in a contemporary business environment.

Management Accounting (15 credits)

Introducing you to the fundamentals of management accounting, this module allows you to develop an awareness of how financial data is used to aid planning decisions and the monitoring and control of finances within organisations.

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to present financial statements in a workplace context and be able to assist senior colleagues with financial business planning. You will also have the fundamental knowledge, skills and confidence required to progress on to higher level study.

Managing a Successful Business Project (15 credits)

This module provides you with an opportunity to demonstrate the skills required for managing and implementing a project. You will undertake independent research and investigation, carrying out and executing a business project which meets appropriate business aims, objectives and needs.

This module is assessed by a Pearson-set assignment and is based on a theme, provided by Pearson, that changes annually. The theme and chosen project within the theme will enable you to explore and examine a relevant and current topical aspect of business in the context of the business environment.

In the second year, you will study a selection of optional modules. These will be determined, once enrolled, in conjunction with the lecturing team.

Careers and Progression Routes

Career Prospects

Successful completion of the HNC will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills required for success in a range of business-related roles. It also demonstrates to employers that you are a clear thinking, analytical individual with a good grasp of current business affairs, challenges and opportunities.

Progression Routes

This qualification provides natural progression to the HND Business (Management) at University Centre St Helens, or directly on to the second year of an appropriate degree at another university.

Typical Careers

As a graduate, you can take your career path in a range of directions, including:

• Sales Executive
• Business Analyst
• Marketing Professional
• Recruitment Consultant

Finance

Part-time

For 2021 entry, tuition fees for part-time study are £3,750 per year.

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available in our University Centre St Helens Policies and Procedures section.

For more in-depth information on the application process, please visit our guidance page.

Financial Support

Subject to eligibility, students can apply for a tuition fee loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.

Additional Costs

Additional costs will be discussed during the interview stage.

Apply

How to Apply

Applications for this qualification are made using our part-time higher education application form. Please visit our application section to complete and submit the form online. This course does not require applications to be made via UCAS.

Visit Us

We are more than happy to arrange a visit to University Centre St Helens, where you will have the opportunity to speak to our lecturers, tour our campus and facilities and discuss your finance options. Get in touch with our Enquiries Team, using the contact details below, to arrange a visit.

Request a Higher Education Guide

Get an overview of the benefits of studying at University Centre St Helens and explore our full range of degrees before you apply. You can view and download our Higher Education Guide by visiting this section.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about this degree or would like to arrange a visit to University Centre St Helens, please contact:

Tel: 0800 99 66 99
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