A course with a foundation year is for you if…
- You would like to build your confidence to study at university level.
- You want to gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
- Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
- You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
- You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
- You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
Careers with this subject
- Account Manager
- Accountant (Training for ACA Chartership)
- Bids Manager
- Business Development Manager
- Client Support Specialist
- Consultant, UK Investment Management
- Customer Success Manager
- Data and Campaigns Marketing Analyst
- HR Account Manager
- Operations Manager
Advice from graduate Christopher Cleves
Careers service
Key features
We’re hands-down practical
We’re a connected community
We’re Team Plymouth
The foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers.
-
BSc (Hons) Business Management
Or one of the following programmes within Plymouth Business School: - BSc (Hons) Business Management with Finance
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Human Resource Management
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with International Business
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Marketing
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Project Management
- BSc (Hons) Business Management (2 year fast track)
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- BSc (Hons) Economics
- BSc (Hons) Events Management
-
BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Management - BSc (Hons) Maritime Business
- BSc (Hons) Marketing
- BSc (Hons) International Tourism Management
Course details
-
Foundation year
-
Begin to develop your research skills, knowledge and understanding. Undertake independent research into an area of study that interests you. Successful completion of the foundation year ensures progression to year 1.
Core modules
ECN3100
The World of Economics and Finance 30 creditsThis module will introduce you to a range of contemporary ideas within economics and finance. The module will use a range of contemporary real-world issues to demonstrate the relevance of foundation level economic and financial concepts for decision making.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
STO3001
Global Business 30 creditsThe module will introduce the components, functions and context of a business. You will explore the impact of different models on business purpose, values, stakeholders and reporting. Aspects such as globalisation, sustainability, ethics and entrepreneurship will also be examined.
100% Coursework
STO3003
Business Research Project 30 creditsThis module allows you to integrate subject specific knowledge and skills to investigate a specific topic relevant to your programme of study through a small-scale research project.
100% Coursework
STO3004
Introduction to Business ResearchThe module will enable you to develop business research at an introductory level and to develop a range of academic and professional capabilities. You will investigate research topics that will develop your understanding the importance of effective cross-disciplinary understanding and collaboration.
-
Year 1
-
Gain a solid understanding of management in a business and enterprise context. Learn about the ethical and sustainability issues of businesses from a global perspective, while developing your understanding of leadership, marketing and the digital economy. Throughout your degree you have the opportunity to work on live case studies and with businesses to develop your learning and apply theory to practice.
Core modules
HRL4001
Developing Management and Leadership Competencies 20 creditsThis module introduces you to the practices of the manager and leader, exploring the key attributes, roles, responsibilities and challenges facing them in 21st century organisations, and the attributes, skills and competencies required to be effective. The module focuses on leadership and management practice and encourages a self /individual developmental approach, enabling you to reflect on your current and future competencies.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
HRL4003
Business Culture and Behaviour 40 creditsThis module encompasses the internal aspects, functions and processes of organisations, including their diverse nature, purposes, structures, size/scale, governance, operations and management, together with the individual and corporate behaviours and cultures which exist within and between different organisations.
60% Tests
40% Coursework
MKT4003
Marketing, Enterprise and the Digital Economy 20 creditsAs consumer behaviour and needs change, organisations need to become more creative and entrepreneurial in every aspect. This module will provide you with the foundation knowledge of consumer behaviour in the digital world; how businesses are adapting and developing effective entrepreneurial climates, cultures and structures for long-term sustainability. You will explore the role and impact of digital technologies and how the integration of online and traditional marketing techniques can be successful.
100% Coursework
STO4002
The Business Environment: A Global Perspective 40 creditsThis module introduces students to essential understanding and competencies in the dynamic and changing nature of business and the consideration of the future of organisations within the global business environment, including the management of risk and business resilience.
60% Tests
40% Coursework
-
Year 2
-
Develop employability skills further by focusing on the practical techniques for managing people, operations, resources and projects. Work with students from across the faculty on the challenge module, which focuses on global issues.
Core modules
ACF5011
Financial Data AnalysisSustainable business performance can only be maintained if managers have access to high quality financial information. This module utilises financial data for fundamental corporate decisions by exploring analytical techniques such as financial statements analysis, risk estimation, descriptive and inferential statistics in the context of their role in informing business decisions (e.g. investment, working capital decisions, corporate financing decisions, business valuation, budgeting, marginal analysis, and financing etc).
ECN5015
Decision Making for BusinessDecision Making for Business offers students a thorough understanding of rational, behavioural, and economic approaches to decision-making, emphasising their practical application in business contexts. Students are introduced to key decision-making frameworks that guide analysis, choice, and strategic planning in economic environments. They develop skills to analyse situations, evaluate risks, navigate asymmetric information, and apply strategic thinking to enhance decision-making across various business contexts.
HRL5010
People ManagementUnderstanding how to manage people is vital for anyone aspiring to become a business owner, manager, or HRM practitioner, as it is increasingly understood that people provide a key source of competitive advantage, yet many organisations continue to struggle to harness this resource effectively. In this module you will explore the core areas of people management policy and practice, consider the challenges faced by people managers, and the attributes required to address them.
STO5005
Operations for Competitive AdvantageIn today’s competitive global market, efficient operations are critical to success in both goods and service industries. This module provides a strategic, problem-solving approach to operations management, focusing on areas that drive competitive advantage, such as leveraging technology. The module explores how to improve operations using key concepts such as operations strategy, lean thinking, performance measurement, and quality management. Through case studies and real life examples you will gain the tools to apply these principles, increasing customer satisfaction, improving productivity and performance, while driving long-term business success
Optional modules
HRL5002
Contemporary HRM 20 creditsIn this module, you will focus on exploring the management of human resources in modern organisations operating in complex environments.
100% Coursework
HRL5003
Human Resource Management in a Global Context 20 creditsThis module introduces you to the consequences of globalisation for workers and how they are managed, the particular people management issues confronted by multinational corporations (MNCs) and the human resource management systems adopted in different national contexts.
100% Coursework
HRL5004
Managing Change 20 creditsThis module considers the importance of change management and how it can be achieved and sustained. You will examine how change affects organisations and the individuals who work within them. You will go on to evaluate the means by which change can be analysed and implemented, considering the interactions between strategy, policy, human resources, and the organisational environment.
100% Coursework
MKT5003
Marketing for a Digital World 20 creditsIn this module you will examine the impact of new forms of digital technology on all aspects of the modern marketing mix, organisational strategies and consumer facing activities. You will examine new approaches for segmentation, targeting and positioning to generate sales through a digital lens. This module further aims to provide a greater understanding and awareness of the relationships between marketing and digital technology.
100% Coursework
MKT5004
Strategic Marketing Management 20 creditsThe module is designed to provide business students with an understanding of the essential elements of the marketing management process. It explores the way in which marketing strategies can be developed and implemented in business organisations, and the relationship between marketing, other functional areas of management and the external environment. It will address the potential impact of current issues on the marketing process.
100% Coursework
PBS5001C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business 20 creditsThrough this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.
100% Coursework
PBS5002C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade 20 creditsIn this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.
100% Coursework
PBS5003C
The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action 20 creditsThrough this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.
100% Coursework
STO5001
Project Management 20 creditsThis module provides insight and application into key aspects of successful project management and the project management lifecycle.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
STO5002
Responsible Global Enterprise 20 creditsThe module will focus on the management of global enterprises in a responsible way. You will consider the various forces within the local and international environments that are likely to influence firms’ expansion activities, including location choice, entry mode, internationalisation patterns and growth strategies. You will also explore the pros and cons of globalization, the emerging trends in deglobalization, fair trade practices and responsible foreign direct investment (FDI). Finally, you will examines the costs and benefits of offshore outsourcing as a part of global supply chain management and in the context of corporate social responsibility (CSR).
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ACF5010
Financial Institutions and MarketsThis module deals with financial markets, instruments, and institutions. You will examine the bond market, stock market, and foreign exchange market, and explore topics such as investment banking and mutual funds.
ECN5010
International Finance, Trade and GlobalizationThis module explores the economic and financial implications of globalisation by examining contemporary topics in international financial markets and international trade. It enables the consideration of the impact of the contemporary financial and trading system on key areas for business decision making.
-
Optional placement year
-
Put theory into practice with an optional placement year. Supported by a dedicated team, you undertake a paid position within a public or private sector organisation relevant to your interests.
Core modules
PBS600PLC
Placement YearThe placement year consists of an extended period of appropriate professional experience in a business or organisation. It allows the student to gain relevant experience to consolidate their studies and prepare for final stage study and employment after graduation. Students on BA International Business may also or alternatively undertake a study placement at an approved partner institution.
-
Final year
-
Study the topics you are interested in and graduate with a specialist qualification. Some of our specialism modules include: human resource management, global enterprise, creating social change, and strategic marketing. Tailor your degree by completing a research project in an area of your choice, and undertake a live consultancy project or reflect on your industry experience.
Core modules
PBS6000
Honours Project 40 creditsThe module gives you the opportunity to investigate in-depth a specialist academic or practice-based topic for which you have a passion for knowing more within your field of study.
100% Coursework
STO6003
Strategy and Leadership 20 creditsThis module brings a problem-focused view to Strategy, Leadership and their interaction through Strategic Leadership. Particular consideration is given to strategic analysis, the development, evaluation and implementation of strategies and appropriate styles of leadership which facilitate this. The ethical and moral responsibilities of leaders will be critiqued, along with the development of relationships between organisational decision makers, leaders, and followers, within businesses.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
Optional modules
HRL6002
Contemporary HRM 20 creditsIn this module, you will focus on exploring the management of human resources in modern organisations operating in complex environments.
100% Coursework
HRL6003
Human Resource Management in a Global Context 20 creditsThis module introduces you to the consequences of globalisation for workers and how they are managed, the particular people management issues confronted by multinational corporations (MNCs) and the human resource management systems adopted in different national contexts.
100% Coursework
HRL6004
Managing Change 20 creditsThis module considers the importance of change management and how it can be achieved and sustained. You will examine how change affects organisations and the individuals who work within them. You will go on to evaluate the means by which change can be analysed and implemented, considering the interactions between strategy, policy, human resources, and the organisational environment.
100% Coursework
HRL6010
Experiential Practice 20 creditsThis module provides you with the opportunity both to reflect upon practical experience as well as develop your capabilities and profile so you are on course for life after graduation.
100% Coursework
MKT6003
Marketing for a Digital World 20 creditsIn this module you will examine the impact of new forms of digital technology on all aspects of the modern marketing mix, organisational strategies and consumer facing activities. You will examine new approaches for segmentation, targeting and positioning to generate sales through a digital lens. This module further aims to provide a greater understanding and awareness of the relationships between marketing and digital technology.
100% Coursework
MKT6004
Strategic Marketing Management 20 creditsThe module is designed to provide business students with an understanding of the essential elements of the marketing management process. It explores the way in which marketing strategies can be developed and implemented in business organisations, and the relationship between marketing, other functional areas of management and the external environment. It will address the potential impact of current issues on the marketing process.
100% Coursework
MKT6010
Global Marketing Management 20 creditsThe module introduces you to the key concepts of global marketing, providing you with an understanding of environmental factors, global marketing strategies and the international marketing planning process.
100% Coursework
STO6001
Project Management 20 creditsThis module provides insight and application into key aspects of successful project management and the project management lifecycle.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
STO6002
Responsible Global Enterprise 20 creditsThe module will focus on the management of global enterprises in a responsible way. You will consider the various forces within the local and international environments that are likely to influence firms’ expansion activities, including location choice, entry mode, internationalisation patterns and growth strategies. You will also explore the pros and cons of globalization, the emerging trends in deglobalization, fair trade practices and responsible foreign direct investment (FDI). Finally, you will examines the costs and benefits of offshore outsourcing as a part of global supply chain management and in the context of corporate social responsibility (CSR).
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
STO6004
Enterprise, Innovation and Creativity 20 creditsThe module will enable you to use creative processes to develop an innovative and viable business concept and to pitch for resources from potential stakeholders.
60% Coursework
40% Practicals
STO6005
Business Consultancy 20 creditsThis module focuses on exploring and understanding a range of theoretical approaches to developing strategies for businesses and applying these principles to a live consultancy project. You will have the opportunity to gain experience of working with a business on a consultancy basis, either in a research or strategic development setting. You will engage with a client business to mutually identify a suitable project and develop findings and guidelines to inform a new strategic direction.
100% Practicals
ACF6010
Financial Institutions and MarketsThis module deals with financial markets, instruments, and institutions. You will examine the bond market, stock market, and foreign exchange market, and explore topics such as investment banking and mutual funds.
ECN6010
International Finance, Trade and GlobalizationThis module explores the economic and financial implications of globalisation by examining contemporary topics in international financial markets and international trade. It enables the consideration of the impact of the contemporary financial and trading system on key areas for business decision making.
Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:
Entry requirements
UCAS tariff
32+
Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.
PPP-MMP in any subject.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
24-25 overall. English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4, Standard Level = 5.
If overseas and not studying English within IB – Must have IELTS: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in all elements.
Pass access course (any subject) plus GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4 or above or equivalent.
GCSE’s or equivalent: Maths and English at Grade C/4 or City and Guilds; Key Skills Level 2 will be considered on an individual basis.
Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 | 2025-2026 * | |
---|---|---|
Home | £9,250 | £5,760 |
International | £17,100 | £17,600 |
Part time (Home) | £770 | £480 |
*UK Government announcement on tuition fees
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.
Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Additional costs
Tuition fees for optional placement years
How to apply
Help & enquiries
- Admission enquiries
- admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
- +44 1752 585858
- PlymUniApply
Hands-on entrepreneurial support
Make a positive impact in the community
Build strong industry connections
This course is for you if...
- you want to get stuck into real business tasks from day one
- you appreciate building relationships that enable you to thrive
- you enjoy the flexibility to follow your interests
- you get a buzz from solving problems

“We get you in front of industry straight away to start developing your leadership, communication and problem solving skills. And to start you networking with potential employers.”
The Business Challenge in week three brings all first-year BSc (Hons) Business Management and BSc (Hons) Marketing students together to pitch solutions to real-world business challenges.
The course is extremely diverse. I found it really interesting working alongside people with different lived experience of business.
Hi, I'm Cat Hine and I am your Admissions Tutor and Programme Lead. Come and meet me at an Open Day.
Dr Cat Hine
Admissions Tutor and Programme Lead

Thriving industry connections




There’s so much room to try new things and conquer some of your fears. The course is a great stepping stone before you enter into the real world and the team will ensure you are as well prepared as you can be.
A new home to cultivate business leaders
Watch our video visualising what the new building looks like.
Real-world experience
“I became very business intelligent and was able to apply my course knowledge to the real world. I learned a lot from working with live clients and business advisory projects – from how to create a business plan to hitting targets.”

Develop your leadership skills on the water

Inspiring student and graduate entrepreneurs
“On my placement I ran my own business and got support from the Cube. They helped my business model and refine my skills.”

Inspiring Futures enables you to engage in knowledge exchange activities with businesses while you study.

Working with a real client on a live project was good. It made me more confident about talking to business people in the future.
Meet your expert teaching staff
-
Dr Katie Angliss
Head of Division - Business Management
Extensive industry experience
-
Dr Ben Siu
Lecturer in Marketing (Education)
Expert in online marketing, facilities management, leisure and catering
-
Dr Rumbi Mukonoweshuro
Lecturer in Finance
Expert in corporate finance and co-inventor of the Cost Carbon Calculator
-
Dr Rania Naguib
Lecturer in Economics
Expert in macroeconomics, microeconomics and international trade
-
Dr Jasmine Kelland
Associate Professor of Human Resource Management
Expert in HR management and business
-
Dr Atul Mishra
Lecturer in Strategic Management (Education)
Expert in the rural economy
-
Dr Jonathan Moizer
Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Business Operations & Strategy
Expert in using management modelling, simulations and games to promote learning
-
Dr Stephen Childe
Associate Professor in Business Management & Operations
Expert in Big Data and experienced chartered engineer
-
Dr Smita Tripathi
Lecturer in Human Resource Studies/Leadership
Expert in leadership, contemporary ethical issues in leadership and management
-
Dr Helen Bowstead
In-sessional Academic Manager and EFL Lecturer
Expert in developing writing confidence and fluency
-
Dr Danielle Bishop
Associate Head of School for Teaching, Learning and Quality
Expert in French language and culture
-
Plymouth Business School is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) – the only UK university to have this status *
-
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Triple Gold 2023 – the University holds an overall Gold rating and Gold for student experience and student outcomes
-
Championing better work and working lives – accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
-
95% of graduates are working or studying 15 months after graduating
-
Member of the Business Graduates Association (BGA)