Studying a business degree is one of the most popular choices for university students in the UK and worldwide – and for good reason. Business studies give you versatile skills, open doors to careers in every industry, and equip you with the confidence to succeed whether you want to work for a global company, a start-up, or even launch your own business.

Business and management degrees in the UK focus on how organisations are structured, how they operate, and the environments they work within. As a student, you’ll learn how businesses think and act, while developing the skills employers look for – from leadership and problem-solving to strategy and communication.

There’s a wide range of business and management degrees in the UK, giving you the flexibility to choose a course that matches your interests and career goals.

You may choose to study a typical business management degree that covers all areas of business, or a more specialised course combining management with a more specific subject such as accounting, economics, or marketing.

Here are some types of business management degrees you may consider studying:

• Business Management – A broad degree covering all areas of business.
• Specialist Degrees – Focus on a specific area such as accounting, economics, finance, marketing, or human resources.
• Theory-Based Courses – Explore the wider context of business through subjects like economics, politics, and sociology.
• Practical Courses – Build real-world skills for specific business functions.
• Innovative Degrees – Study exciting and emerging areas such as international business, sustainability, or entrepreneurship.

Some of the most popular business studies degree options include:

• Accounting and Management
• Business Analytics
• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Human Resource Management
• International Business Management

Depending on your business studies, you may study a range of modules such as:

• Business and Environmental Sustainability
• Business Economics
• Business Law
• Business Skills
• Business Strategy
• Corporate Governance
• Data Analytics
• Fundamentals of Accounting and Finance
• Human Resource Management
• International Business Management
• Managing Systems and Operations
• Principles of Marketing
• Project Management
• Strategic Leadership

University entry requirements in the UK vary by institution, course and degree level, so always check your course requirements before applying. 

Typical entry requirements for business studies include:

• Grades: BBB-CCC at A-level (or equivalent qualification), with at least one subject in a science-related field.
• UCAS points: around 80-112 points on average.
• English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or above, or equivalent English test score. Some universities offer their own internal English tests.

The duration of your business degree depends mainly on the degree level and study mode.

• Undergraduate degrees: Usually 3 years full-time, or 4 years if you choose a placement year or study part-time.
• Postgraduate degrees (MBA and others): Typically 1 year full-time, or 2 years part-time.

A business management degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths. Graduates often go into roles in marketing, human resources, consulting, banking, and finance. But your skills will be valued across many industries – from healthcare and construction to fashion, media, and technology.

Most business studies graduates work in management, analysis, and leadership roles across the private, public, and voluntary sectors. And if you’d prefer to be your own boss, your degree will give you the skills and confidence to start your own business.

Business studies graduates often go on to careers such as:

• Business analyst
• Business adviser
• Management accountant
• Sales Manager
• Human resource officer
• Project manager
• Business Manager
• Supply chain manager
• Marketing Manager
• Stockbroker
• Sales Executive
• Data analyst

Some of the top universities for business studies include:

• University of St Andrews School of Management
• University of Strathclyde Business School
• Loughborough University School of Business and Economics
• University of Oxford Saïd Business School
• University of Bath School of Management
• University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School
• University of Warwick Business School
• Durham University Business School
• Kings College London Kings Business School
• University of Cambridge, Judge Business School
• University of Exeter Business School
• University College London School of Management
• University of Leeds Business School