2025/26 entry
BSc (Hons) Business Management with Foundation Year
Why study Business Management with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University?
- Prepares students for multiple business roles through the use of business simulation tools and live consultancy projects
- Gain a BSc award, in recognition of the technical business skills you will gain through practical application of business theory
- 91% of students surveyed said the teaching staff on our business courses were good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2024)
- Opportunity to spend a year on placement, gaining valuable experience in industry
- Study abroad opportunities in China, the USA and Europe
- Funded international exchange opportunities
- International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme
- Shortlisted for the Times Higher Education Awards 2024 Business School of the Year
About your course
The Business Management programme blends contemporary business theory with the practical application of technical business skills
As a Business Management student you will become competent in:
- digital analytical expertise
- managing finance with appropriate tools
- understanding financial markets
- people management
- development and marketing of products and services
- planning and project management delivery
Upon graduation, students will also be well prepared for the increasing challenges of global business and its environment.
Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the interest and ability to study for a degree, but do not have the qualifications to enter directly onto the Business Management honours degree programme yet. Once you pass the Foundation Year (level 3) you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).
Level 4 study onwards
The programme has six core modules at level 4, which form the essential commercial underpinnings for a global career in the digital business world. After completing this first year, students can then specialise and gain accreditation in their chosen area of expertise.
You are encouraged to complete an optional year work placement in industry between the second and third year of study. This will provide you with a richer overall experience. It will also significantly enhance your employment prospects upon graduating, as you will have gained work experience that you can draw upon when completing application forms and interviews.
Business simulation tools are used in a number of core modules to replicate real-world work scenarios. Using various applications, students work in small groups and compete to develop the best business strategies for success - including business growth, market dominance, ethical business and sustainability goals.
Throughout each year of the programme we run a series of networking events with course alumni and industry that allows students to develop with confidence, honing their communication skills and grow their own contacts and business links.
Using LJMU's close business networks across the region, students have the opportunity to act as a consultant, working on live business case projects such as market research, ecommerce, business growth, project delivery, HR legislation, marketing or business ops.
Liverpool Business School has partnerships with business schools at universities and colleges across Europe, in the USA and in China.
The School recognises the importance of providing cultural enrichment opportunities for students and offers students on this programme the opportunity to spend a semester in their second year at a partner university abroad as part of their studies. There are also many supported opportunities for activities at partner universities during summer vacations. All study abroad opportunities are in English.
Live Consultancy Project
Through LJMU's Liverpool Business Clinic, students have a unique opportunity to work on real client briefs with local organisations putting academic theory into real world practice. This live consultancy projects is an optional module to a traditional final-year dissertation.
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- access to programme-appropriate software
- library and student IT support
- free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Employability
The modules taught on the Business Management degree reflect the very latest business practice that industry demands.
Liverpool Business School has historically had an excellent employment record with graduates securing graduate-level positions with leading employers in public and private sectors. These include Everton Football Club, Kellogg company, Santander and Deloitte.
Graduates can expect to enjoy varied career opportunities both in the UK and overseas. Many graduates may establish their own consultancies or businesses.
The degree opens up a wide variety of career opportunities for graduates in marketing, digital analytics, purchasing, human resources, management, finance and sales.
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Start-up Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 3
Core modules
Developing Skills for Business
20 credits
This module aims to facilitate your development of personal, academic and professional skills as a foundation for your current and future studies in Business related subjects. It will equip you with the tools to become confident and independent learners at university.
Understanding Business Organisations and Operations
20 credits
This module provides you with an introduction to the world of business, the types of business and structures, the functional areas, and management theories and challenges faced by business in today's commercial world.
Essentials of Management
20 credits
This module introduces you to management theory. This foundation module will develop your appreciation, understanding and application of management and professionalism in different career pathways and specialist areas.
Introduction to Marketing and PR Communications
20 credits
This module gives you an understanding of the key concepts and terminology used in marketing and public relations. It also gives you a knowledge and understanding of your role within organisations and explores the factors that can influence consumer behaviour.
Data Analysis Techniques for Business
20 credits
This module equips you with the technical skills to be able to design and produce Microsoft Excel spreadsheets for business use, and to facilitate the development of basic analytical skills.
Programme Case Study
20 credits
This module develops your independent learning and expertise in an area of business relating to your target programme. Through a co-creation process your subject interests will be harnessed to enable you to develop your knowledge in a self-selected topic area. The module aims to be flexible to enable you to explore an area of interest to you and you will be assessed in a manner that supports this.
Level 4
Core modules
Operations & Technology Management
20 credits
This module introduces students to how organisations produce goods and/or services. It is a broad subject that encompasses process and technology management and design, product design, production planning and control, quality management, supply chain management and inventory management.
Academic Skills & Digital Literacy
20 credits
This module creates the underpinning academic skills and knowledge for the degree programme. Designed to enable students to engage with module content and learning activities throughout the rest of the programme, in terms of content and assessments.
Marketing
20 credits
A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of marketing. This modules discusses the factors and trends in the marketing environment and how they affect marketing, and explains the role of marketing to the organisation.
Economics
20 credits
Introducing economic ideas students and demonstrating the importance of economics for business, this module describes how markets work and the conditions that lead to market failure. Students will learn about how competition between firms affects business behaviour.
Accounting & Finance
20 credits
This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of essential finance and accounting terminology and methods to enable them to perform effectively and efficiently within their future workplace. Using practical examples, students will gain confidence to be able to use financial modelling skills using Excel; preparingfinancial statements that include profit, cashflow and forecast budgets.
Global Business Management
20 credits
This module provides the essential frameworks to understand current issues in global business and management and their impact on companies and society. Students will be taught how to develop the cross-cultural expertise essential to succeed in a world of rapid and profound economic, political and cultural changes.
Level 5
Core modules
Digital Business Management
20 credits
Students will explore, from the perspective of the non-IT manager, how organisations make use of digital technologies to improve business performance, business operations, products and services. They will analyse the role of digital information technologies to gain competitive advantage making business operations more effective, responsive, resilient and efficient.
Managing People & Organisations
20 credits
The aim of this module is to develop a critical understanding of key factors relating to the effective management of people and processes in order to achieve positive organisational outcomes. Students will evaluate the process of managing people, and the dynamics of team management. They will also analyse how individual differences can motivate and manage people and teams to deliver organisational performance.
Managing Processes
20 credits
Introduces students to lean methodology and enable them apply lean methodology in a Business Management context. By applying the tools and techniques learned, students will be able to confidently identify process improvements and will have an accredited qualification come the end of the module. Students will be introduced to the concepts of Lean Six Sigma and be able demonstrate the principles and tools at Yellow Belt level.
Managing Finance
20 credits
To enable students, business managers of the future, to make evidence-based investment decisions andanalyse financial statements and performance in order to ensure sustainability, liquidity and profitability. They willestimate the Risk and Return of investments using a range of statistical methods in order to recommend evidence-based investment decisions.
Managing Data & Information
20 credits
Students will explore, from the perspective of the non-analyst, how organisations make use of statistical data and information in order to inform decision-making. They will beintroduced to basic concepts of contemporary data analysis using appropriate data visualisation techniques, to illustrate and articulate how modern companies are using business intelligence to solve old problems in new ways. It will introduce students to the novel approaches that are revolutionizing the way business management is done (Big Data, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence).
Employability Skills
20 credits
This module provides the skills and knowledge to succeed in the graduate employment market. Students will learn how to produce the necessary documentation, such as CVs, covering letters psychometric tests, application forms and interview and presentation skills, to secure interviews with prospective employers.
Optional Modules
Study Semester Abroad - Business Management
60 credits
This is a semester of full-time study at an approved higher education institution which will replace one semester of level 5 study at LJMU. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance by the student, programme leader and overseas provider, and must be an appropriate substitute for the modules being replaced.
Study Year Abroad - Business Management
120 credits
The aim is to provide students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas higher education institution partner that will complement their programme at LJMU. This is an additional year of full-time study, the modules to be studied must be agreed in advance.
Sandwich Year - Business Management
120 credits
A sandwich year aims to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.
Level 6
Core modules
Project Management
20 credits
This module introduces students to project management theory, terms and concepts. They will develop an understanding of the structure of projects through the exploration of project life cycles, together with an analysis of the constituent activities and basic techniques that are undertaken during a typical project.
Sustainable Management & ESG
20 credits
Students will recognise and critically evaluate the global challenges we face and the role of business and organisations in addressing them. They will be able to identify specific ways in which business and organisations can become more responsible in practice; critically evaluating the sustainability performance and actions of business through the application of appropriate academic concepts, models and frameworks.
Leadership & Change Management
20 credits
Students will develop an understanding of the challenges faced by those involved in leading organisations in todays increasingly complex and dynamic global business environment and understand the theory and practice of organisational change so that they can undertake and manage it effectively.
Strategic Management
20 credits
To recognise and evaluate strategic decision-making and how it affects the competitive advantage of business. Students willcritically analyse the strategic position of business,assess the strategic choices of businesses to pursue a competitive advantage, and evaluate strategy in action, including how leaders implement strategies in changing environments.
Optional Modules
Dissertation
40 credits
Students will develop and justify a relevant, original and feasible research topic. They will rigorously investigate an issue from the business management discipline, conducting independent primary research and demonstrate the ability to manipulate and present data in a suitable format.
Business Consultancy
40 credits
This module allows students to work on a real-world client brief, to develop an understanding of business problems and issues and applying key academic theories and models in the development of a solution that meets the clients needs. In addition students will reflect on their personal development and consider next steps post-graduation.
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies. Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.
Subjects are delivered via a balance of formal lectures, informal workshops, online activities and seminars. These allow students to discuss, develop and practice their understanding of particular theories and principles.
Additionally professional speakers from industry share their own experience and perspectives with students, enabling them to gain invaluable insight into the workplace.
Practical off-site visits to organisations such as Jaguar Landrover, Typhoo, Vauxhall Motors and CAT (Centre for Alternative Technologies), allow students to observe how theory is put into practice. This helps provide context to theoretical underpinnings and can also help students select their future career pathway.
The programme uses business technology to support learning. This includes simulation, digital analytics, 'live' textbooks , use of the Bloomberg information centre, visits to our sensor city campus and case studies supported by our Canvas virtual learning environment.
Work-related Learning
You will gain valuable work-related experience when you work as part of a team of 'student consultants' on your live business project as part of the assessment requirements.
Early in level 5 you can decide whether to undertake a paid 48-week work placement in the UK or overseas. You would do this placement between level 5 and 6.
Placements provide the opportunity to gain experience of what its like to work in industry as well as giving you a chance to put your learning into practice, develop personal skills and enhance your employability. A significant number of our students also go on to secure employment with their placement provider after graduating.
Liverpool Business School's Placement Support Unit will help you find suitable vacancies and support you during the application process and whilst on placement.
Placements are available in a wide variety of roles, in organisations of all sectors and sizes, from large multinationals to small and medium enterprises. Organisations we have previously placed Business students at include Unilever, Liverpool Football Club, Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Bentley.
During your placement, you will work on real-life business problems and have the opportunity to suggest ideas that may be implemented by your placement organisation.
Some students choose to spend their placement year abroad. Previous students have been placed with Airbus in Toulouse, Tom Tom in Amsterdam and Toyota in Brussels.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
The programme team provides a supportive environment in which to study. The 'student-centred' approach of your tutors will ensure that you are provided with the individual support and guidance needed. A personal tutor will be assigned to help you with your personal development and career planning.
In addition, each module leader offers drop in opportunities for you to clarify your understanding and, if needed, provide further detailed feedback on a piece of work.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
We understand that students perform differently depending on the type of assessment they are given and so a range of assessment methods are used on the programme. These include written assignments (essays/reports, individual/group), exams, practical assessments, individual and group presentations, portfolios, reflective logs and a dissertation. There could be up to three assessments per module, for example a presentation, report and exam.
Written feedback is provided within 15 working days of submission, but you can also get face-to-face feedback from your Module Tutor. We believe that constructive feedback is vital in helping you identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to develop further.
Course tutors
Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning
Andrew Doyle
Programme Leader
Andrew Doyle is an experienced academic who, after several years as a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader took over as BSc Business Management Programme in 2022. His academic work is underpinned by many years as a Managing Director and he is skilled in strategic management, marketing and customer service. Andrew has redesigned and developed a number of programmes within the Liverpool Business School and has experience in all facets of business and higher education. His philosophy toward the BSc Business Management programme is to ensure it is intellectually challenging, insightful and practically applied to enable students real opportunities for employment and progression in the future of work. Andrew lectures on strategic management and marketing.
This course has been designed to prepare our students for today’s business environment, giving them practical skills and theoretical knowledge so that they can go into the workplace confident and capable.
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
The School is based in the Redmonds Building, in the heart of the bustling Mount Pleasant Campus and Liverpool's growing Knowledge Quarter. The building is home to high quality lecture theatres and seminar rooms, social spaces, a café and a roof terrace with far reaching views of the cityscape and welsh hills. It is only a short walk from LJMU's Aldham Robarts Library, which contains all the resources you will require for your studies, and is open seven days a week.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Grades/points required from qualifications:
Qualification requirements
A levels
72 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels. Key skills points are accepted in accordance with the UCAS tariff. AS level awards are accepted only when the full A level is not studied and only up to 20 UCAS points maximum.
BTECs
BTEC certificate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications. 90 credit diploma: Acceptable only when combined with other level 3 qualifications. Diploma (QCF): Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications. Diploma subjects / grades required: DM if studied on its own or to the total of 72 UCAS points if combined with other qualifications. Extended diploma (QCF): Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications. Extended diploma subjects / grades required: MMP if studied on its own or to the total of 72 UCAS points if combined with other qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
24 IB Diploma points
NVQ
Applicants holding an HND in a relevant subject area will be considered for direct entry to Level 5 of the programme.
International requirements
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Other international requirements
International applications will be considered in line with UK qualifications. Any Applicant whose first language is not English will be required to have IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component).
Further information
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DBS, Occupational Health requirements
Can this course be deferred?
Yes
Is a DBS check required?
No
Prior to starting the programme applicants must have obtained grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics GCSE or an approved alternative qualification (or equivalent). • Key Skills Level 2 in English/ Maths • NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading • Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English • Higher Diploma in Maths/ English • Functional skills Level 2 in Maths/ English • Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in communication or Application of Number • Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.
We are looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in business, management and/or entrepreneurship.
Applicants should be able to communicate effectively both orally and in their written work and possess the self discipline to manage their time and tasks effectively while at LJMU.
The university reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the university. Where this does happen, the university operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.