BSc (Hons) Business Management (Information Systems) top-up University of Bolton

Course Overview

Business management qualifications are essential for unlocking career opportunities and advancing your professional responsibilities. Our BSc (Hons) Business Management (Finance) top-up course is designed to build upon your existing foundation degree or HND-level knowledge, preparing you to graduate with enhanced expertise in business, management, and finance.

Throughout this program, you will delve into specialized areas such as financial reporting for management, financial accounting practices and regulations, and the essential role of the finance manager. This honours-level curriculum not only deepens your understanding of strategic management but also hones your critical inquiry and research skills, enabling you to produce high-quality work. Upon successful completion, you’ll earn the CMI Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management, along with exemptions from the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Diploma in Business and Accounting.

A key focus of this dynamic and flexible program is to enhance your employability. Through real-life case studies, guest lectures, and industry visits, you will gain insight into the business landscape and the expectations of employers across local, national, and international contexts. We emphasize the development of vital skills, including communication, data analysis, time management, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Additionally, we are committed to fostering lifelong learning skills, empowering you to take charge of your professional development and maximize your future success.

Highlights

Our Business, Management, and Marketing courses are ranked second in the UK and top in the North West of England for course and teaching satisfaction, according to the Guardian University Guide 2022. Additionally, our Accounting and Finance programs are recognized as third in the UK and also top in the North West.

The Institute of Management Greater Manchester, along with the wider University, offers a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for your studies. With relatively small class sizes, purpose-built teaching facilities, and exceptional student support and library services, you’ll find an ideal environment for learning.

Upon successful completion of this dual-award course, you will receive both an academic degree and a professionally-recognized management qualification: the CMI Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management. There’s no need for extra exams or coursework to achieve this Award, as we seamlessly integrate the degree module with CMI assessments.

In the BSc (Hons) Business Management (Finance) top-up pathway, you’ll also have the chance to gain exemptions from the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Diploma in Business and Accounting.

This program is part of our suite of Business Management degrees, allowing you to choose a specialist pathway in Finance, opt for the core Business Management route, or select from other specialized options, based on your prior studies.

You will benefit from face-to-face sessions and personalized support from our highly experienced and enthusiastic lecturers, who bring a wealth of knowledge from diverse business backgrounds, including multinational corporations and SMEs.

To ensure a smooth transition to honours-level study, we provide a tailored induction program that helps you acclimate to your new course and study environment effectively.

Key Features

Vibrant Learning Environment: Experience studying in our dynamic Institute of Management located in the heart of Bolton town centre.
Personalized Support: Benefit from small group and tutorial-based teaching, ensuring you receive exceptional support from our dedicated teaching staff.
Industry Insights: Gain valuable knowledge from guest speakers who hold senior positions in various industries, providing real-world insights and advice.
Accessible Learning Materials: Course materials are available online, allowing you to prepare in advance and fully engage during interactive in-class sessions.
Research-Driven Curriculum: Our teaching incorporates contemporary research findings, ensuring a strong academic foundation for your business management studies.
Skill Development: Our dedicated team will assist you in developing critical thinking and research skills, which you can apply in your final year dissertation or work-based project (if applicable).
Exploring Bolton and Beyond: While studying with us, take advantage of Bolton’s vibrant shops, bars, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Plus, nearby Manchester offers a rich multicultural experience, and the Northwest is known for its stunning countryside, coastline, and heritage.

Entry Requirements

To apply for this program, you typically need to have a relevant Level HE5 qualification, such as a foundation degree or HND (e.g., FdA/FdSc or HND in Business Management). Alternatively, you may possess a professional qualification at an equivalent level.

You might also be asked to attend an interview and/or submit a portfolio of work.

If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in any individual band (or an equivalent qualification). For more information on acceptable English language qualifications, please visit our English Language Requirements webpage.

Career Opportunities

Our dual award BSc (Hons) Business Management (Finance) top-up course is designed to deepen your understanding of business functions at an honours level while enhancing your knowledge in key areas of finance and accounting.

This course paves the way for a career in general management as well as specialized roles in business finance. Graduates can explore diverse fields such as supply chain management, entrepreneurship, marketing, law, retail, and human resource management. The dual qualification you earn upon completion is intended to significantly boost your employability in your chosen management area.

Alongside academic and sector-specific expertise, the program cultivates essential employability skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. This holistic approach prepares you to thrive in an evolving job market and equips you with the tools needed to achieve your career aspirations.

What Can I Do With This Qualification?

Graduates with specialized knowledge in business finance, complemented by a broad understanding of business operations, have a competitive edge in both employment and self-employment. As a graduate of this course, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue various business and management roles across public, private, and voluntary sectors.

Your understanding of business finance legislation, policies, and practices will be particularly advantageous for management positions in the banking and finance sectors. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to venture into roles in retail management, human resource management, marketing, customer service management, advertising, merchandising, logistics, and supply chain management.

You may also consider further studies to refine your expertise in specific areas. A wide array of postgraduate and professional development courses are available in fields like accountancy and finance, human resources, marketing, supply chain management, law, computing, and international business management. Pursuing an MBA is another viable option.

Alternative Career Paths

This qualification can also serve as a stepping stone into various other careers, though some of these roles may require relevant experience or postgraduate study. Potential options include:

Hotel and leisure management
Public relations
Financial management
Information systems
Market research analysis
Product management
Health policy and information
Purchasing
Teaching and education
Media (TV, film, online, newspaper, magazine)
Self-employment
Banking
Auditing and quality assurance
Project management
Risk and insurance

Modules

The following modules may include both compulsory and optional components. Please note that not all modules listed may be available to you as part of the course.