Business & Management Higher National Diploma (BCU)

This Higher National Diploma in Business is awarded by Birmingham City University (BCU). It is a full time course, based at our Sutton Coldfield Campus and lasts over two years.

The course provides a broad based syllabus, specialising in management, but offering a variety of business subjects. The aim of the course is to provide candidates with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for employment and/or further study.

Course content

The course content has been designed to provide specialist vocational programme offering a strong emphasis on practical skills development alongside knowledge and skills development. Over the two years of the programme students will study the following subjects

• Marketing
• European Business
• Organisations & behaviour
• Business environment
• Human resource management
• Aspects of contract & negligence
• Small business enterprise
• Business decision making
• Business strategy
• Working with & leading people
• Marketing planning
• Personal & professional development
• Managing business activities
• Managing communications, knowledge & information

In the final year students will have to complete a research project on a business issue of their choice. The course provides a thorough grounding in key concepts and practical skills necessary to allow both direct entry into employment and further undergraduate study in the second or third year of an honours programme,

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C or above or equivalent. They also must possess 120 UCAS points from A levels or other level 3 qualifications, e.g. BTEC National Diploma. Applications from mature students may be accepted where appropriate work experience is being undertaken, subject to an initial assessment. All applications must be made through the University Clearing system (UCAS).

Delivery & Assessment methods

A variety of assessment methods are used on the HND in Business & Management, including written assignments, presentations, case studies, role-play and examinations.

Progression

HND students who successfully complete the course will have an opportunity to progress to the second or third year of the BA(Hons) Business & Management Studies degree course at Birmingham City University. Students can also choose to progress to other degree programmes or professional courses. Students can also progress into employment. Possession of an HND will enhance job opportunities, within management, marketing, finance or human resource management.