BSc Honours Business Management Degree

Overview & facilities

The BSc Honours Business Management degree has an emphasis on the analytical side of business management preparing you to be effective at managing quantifiable information. You will develop skills in quantitative research and analysis by exploring management models and techniques necessary to achieve superior performance in business organisations. You will also learn how to design and manage service, manufacturing and logistics systems, taking into account human, technological, financial and ethical aspects.

We encourage you to consider a one year placement in an international firm or business to enhance your understanding and skills. You should also take the opportunity to study at one of our partner universities abroad in Europe or the USA.

All Business and Management courses are taught at the same level in year one, following common business disciplines: management, marketing, HRM, economics and finance. This helps you to specialise later in your studies. We follow a quantitative approach to management which provides good progression routes to further study or employment.

• Placement year available
• Cases, exercise and simulations develop real-world management skills and an understanding of relevant techniques and models
• Popular course with flexible selection of modules
• Quantitative approach to management with good progression routes to further study or employment
• All Business and Management courses are taught at the same level in year one, following common business disciplines: management, marketing, HRM, economics and finance. This helps you to specialise later in your studies.

Content & modules

Modules

• Year 1

  Economics for Management (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the basic concepts and methods of economic analysis; the ability to apply economic theory in a management environment; and the foundations for further study in economics.

  People and Organisations (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module is deliberately entitled People and Organisations as it aims to put people centre stage of work institutions which are seen as multi-goal coalitions of diverse interests. So much Organisational Behaviour is seen in managerialist terms only - but here a managerial perspective is only one of the approaches taken. Other stakeholders, particularly the wider community, labour force and trade unions are also taken into account. The classical division of individual - groups - organisation is utilised but the diverse perspectives of stakeholders in these three levels of work organisation are employed throughout this module. It aims to give a self developmental approach to individuals in the workplace emphasising learning, not only as behavioural change for organsiational benefit, but seeing learning as the keystone of self development. Likewise a developmental approach is utilised with groups - utilising interactive analysis alongside traditional process and structural approaches to team working. At the organisational level diverse philosophies and approaches to work are reviewed.

  Principles of Marketing (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module is designed to provide students with an overview of key marketing concepts and techniques, as they apply in a variety of organisations and in both conventional and online environments. More specifically, the module aims to develop students knowledge and understanding of the core role of marketing in determining the growth potential of an enterprise; the value of the marketing mix in ensuring successful marketing implementation; the significance of external and internal operating environments for marketing practice; and methods of identifying consumer targets and competitors.

  Quantitative Methods and Applications for Business Management (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module provides an interesting and enjoyable introduction to basic statistical and ICT ideas for the analysis and presentation of business data. It caters for students with little prior mathematical knowledge, and while students are expected to complete mathematical calculations by hand and using a computer the emphasis is on the interpretation and communication of quantitative results. The module encourages students with little mathematical background or a fear of mathematics to develop confidence and ability in quantitative skills for business and management areas, which can be built upon in further study. The main aim is to enable the student to become a discerning user of statistical methods and ICT in quantitative analysis.

• Year 2

  Business Context and Strategic Environment (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to provide an integrated view of internal and external business environment of organisations and to serve as an introduction to strategic analysis. The module also aims to evaluate elements of complexity in the business environment and to begin exploration of contemporary issues in business and management in preparation for more advanced study at level 3.

  Business Information Systems (30 Credits) - Optional

  The aim of this module is to give students the knowledge and skills to use and manage Business Information Systems to effectively and efficiently support business processes, improve business decision making and gain a competitive advantage. Students will gain an overall understanding of Business Information Systems: the different types, their functionality, development, management, use and the social impact. The module will also enable students to recognise the value and the use of information systems in business, in particular supporting managerial decision making and strategic advantage from the perspective of both a user and that of a manager. Through practical tasks and assignments, students will also gain an understanding of data and process modelling.

  Managerial Finance and Accounting (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to develop and enhance understanding of the role of accounting and finance within business organisations. It aims to provide a broad introduction to financial accounting, management accounting and finance for business students who do not need to develop specialist knowledge. It will enhance accounting and finance skills and train students to use those skills in a range of different business situations.

  Modelling for Business Decisions (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module introduces students to analytical problem solving techniques to enable them to assess, understand, solve and report on real-life business problems. Topics include networks, linear programming and simulation. These techniques are critically appraised with reference to the evolution, contribution and limitations of operational research. Emphasis is given to the communication of the meaning of the results in a non-technical manner. Throughout the module various computer packages are used both as teaching assistants and problem solving tools.

  Operations Management (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to broaden and expand students knowledge of the concepts and techniques required for the design, operation and control of business processes. Cases and practical exercises are relevant to a variety of commercial, manufacturing and service organisations. The module builds on the IT and quantitative skills developed in the first year.

• Year 3

  Financial Performance Analysis (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to enable them to analyse, understand, and interpret the financial performance of companies. It also aims to enable the students understand the limitations/problems inherent in the preparation of financial statements and the effect on financial analysis.

  Innovation and Technology Management (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to offer an up-to-date overview of the role of technology and innovation in firms and in the general economy; to present current approaches developed in business studies on the nature of and relationship between technology and innovation, as well as on the relationship between strategic leadership and innovation; to show how firms exploit technological opportunities by using technology and new product development processes to manage change; to discuss and critically evaluate the role of project management in managing technology and innovation.

  International Operations Management (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims - to present the international nature of business operations and how companies are working in a global marketplace; - to develop understanding of how companies develop and manage their international operations through certain management techniques; - to provide a wider understanding of business competitiveness in global marketplaces; - to use theories to evaluate the choices given by organizations and link them to management of these international networks.

  Managerial Leadership (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The purpose of general business and management programmes are threefold: Study of organisations public, private and non profit , their management and the changing external environment in which they operate Preparation for and the development of career in business and management Enhancement of lifelong learning skills and personal development to contribute to society at large QAA 2007 Within this context this module aims to firstly examine the historical context of managerial leadership and critically evaluate effectiveness of the theoretical perspectives such as: leadership behaviour and style, traits, motives, characteristics, charismatic, situational, contingency, transformational leadership and authentic leadership. Secondly, the module explores key concepts which present the complexity leadership effectiveness in the 21st Century which include: communication and conflict management, ethics, social responsibility, diversity, change, power and politics. Thirdly, the module provides you with an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts in order to develop and enhance your personal leadership effectiveness in preparation for your chosen career through a process of self reflection.

  Managing Non-profit Organisations (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to: develop awareness of the role of non profit sector NPS in the wider economy; provide students with a detailed understanding based on professional work on the key management issues which affect the NPS; show how NPS organisations are managed using up to date management models and theories; show how social enterprise contributes to the development and management of NPS organisations; enhance individual effectiveness in the world of work through NPS management problems from a range of organisations.

  Operational Research for Business (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module extends the ideas and techniques introduced in STX2225 Modelling for Business Decisions. In addition it embarks on a study of game and decision theory, as well as heuristic methods for problem solving and data envelope analysis. Emphasis continues to be given to the communication of the meaning of the results in a non-technical manner, and various computer packages are used both as teaching assistants and problem solving tools.

  Organisational Placement (30 Credits) - Optional

  The primary aim of the placement module is to build on students academic learning by providing them with the opportunity to undertake a period of work experience for which they are paid and which will provide them with the opportunity to apply and further develop work-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, together with the aptitude to learn from experience. The placement year consists of two modules, MBS3331 and MBS3332 which must be taken together. Both MBS3331 and MBS3332 modules assessment must be successfully completed graded and ungraded to complete the placement year.

  Organisational Placement (90 Credits) - Optional

  The primary aim of the placement module is to build on students academic learning by providing them with the opportunity to undertake a period of work experience for which they are paid and which will provide them with the opportunity to apply and further develop work-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, together with the aptitude to learn from experience. The placement year consists of two modules, MBS3331 and MBS3332 which must be taken together. Both MBS3331 and MBS3332 modules assessments must be successfully completed to complete the placement year.

  Philosophy of Management (30 Credits) - Optional

  Management thinking has over the last decade become more reflective and more critical of its origins and key assumptions. This module introduces students to the key elements of this subject, and to the questioning of fundamentals in management that represents the core conceptual approach of philosophy. Students will be introduced to historical writers, theoretical positions, key debates and key tools of conceptual analysis as applied to organisations and management. The module covers material relating to the underlying elements of management research and management knowledge, of business ethics, of the role of business in society and even of the basic nature of organisation itself. It is an important foundation for students considering moving on to masters level study, as well as for those intending to find employment in high level organisations.

  Project Management (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to provide students with a detailed understanding, based on professional work in the field, of the design, planning, implementation and evaluation of projects in a variety of sectors, to show how projects are managed using up-to-date project management tools and technologies, to develop awareness of the role of projects in the wider economy, to enhance individual effectiveness in the world of work through practical work on project management processes from a range of sectors.

  Social, Professional and Ethical Issues in Information Systems (30 Credits) - Optional

  With the increasing use of information systems in all areas of life it is increasingly important for today s graduates - who are tomorrow s professionals - to understand and appreciate the ethical implications and social impact of current technologies, to have a working knowledge of the legislation that applies in this area, and to apply their expertise in a professional way. This module encourages students to develop an awareness of their role in the implementation of new technologies, and the knowledge and skills necessary for a professional approach. The module will take an ethical perspective to computer technology, focusing on UK legislation and standards as they relate to IS practice for example Intellectual Property Rights in web design, database systems etc. , and will include considerations for design and the responsibilities and requirements of the IT profession - for example, as identified in The British Computer Society Code of Conduct: Promote equal access to the benefits of IS by all groups in society. Have regard for the legitimate rights of third parties. Promote public understanding of IS - its benefits and pitfalls. Have knowledge and understanding of relevant legislation, regulations and standards.

  Strategic Management Accounting (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to build on students knowledge of management accounting by looking at the wider measures of performance and decision making and the techniques that can be applied to such situations. The module attempts to give a broad understanding and critical evaluation of performance measurement. This includes quality and innovation as well as financial measures. The techniques and theory covered lead to a wider understanding of strategic decision making as well as overall company performance.

  Strategic Management and Information Systems (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to provide the student with a clear of understanding of the issues that impact on the interface between the information provider and the information consumer. Students will develop a feel for the disparity between the provider and user within the overall management context. In particular the student will appreciate the management on-cost of such disparity. This module will provide the students with an understanding of the framework within which information assets are used to enhance the decision making processes with the organisation. The importance of understanding this framework and all the participants within the framework. The importance of distinguishing between information and knowledge at the organisational level. Students will be given an understanding of the importance of consensus between provider and user in terms of information provision. The overall value, strategically, of good information delivery. The role of strategic alignment in trying to make good information provision more of a certainty within the business environment. This module will provide the student with an understanding of the importance of good change management in relation to the increased reliance of companies on IT as a means of ensuing good information provision. That change is a human as well as an organisation issue. That understanding change issues can help to ensure full and productive use of information assets within the organisation. Students will learn the importance of protecting information assets especially with the outsourcing scenario. How outsourcing impacts on information quality and why security is strategically essential for information assets.

  Strategic Management (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to present a broad and integrated view of strategic management in organisations; to outline and offer a range of critical perspectives on key concepts of strategy; to introduce generic strategies at the corporate, business and functional levels; to provide a range of analytical models and concepts that can be applied in assessing the strategic capability of an organisation and the environment in which it operates.

  Supply Chain Management (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to: - develop an understanding about the integration of different business in creating value; - demonstrate the effects of planning in multiple organizations; - provide experience about the management of integrated business processes and develop a process understanding; present a integration of functional departments within and between different organization

The course has a joint first year with the BA Business Management, with four modules.

• Organisational Behaviour
• Economics for Management
• Principles of Marketing
• Quantitative Methods and Application for Business Management

The second and third years give you the opportunity to branch your studies into thediagnostic styles of business management with a focus on statistical, economical and accounting modules. 

Entry & applying

We normally make offers on a minimum of 240 UCAS tariff points, plus GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C. BTEC National Diploma/International Baccalaureate/Advanced Progression Diplomas at equivalent tariff. Access to HE - Pass. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed. Additionally overseas students whose first language is not English will need a qualification that demonstrates competence in English, eg IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 paper-based or 213 computer based

International entry requirements

We accept the equivalent of the above from a recognised overseas qualification, to find out more about the requirements from your country, see further information under support in your country. For details of other equivalent requirements that Middlesex accepts see entry requirements.

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL internet based 72 (with at least 17 in listening & writing, 20 in speaking and 18 in reading).

Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk.

Entry into year two or three (transfer students)

If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex course in year two or three. For full details of how this works see transfer students.

UK/EU applicants with existing higher education qualifications

If you have already been awarded a qualification at the same level as the course you are applying for, you may not be eligible for a tuition fee loan, see fees and funding for more information.

How to Apply

UK/EU students

Apply now

Applications for UK and EU students should be made to UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. The institution code for Middlesex is M80, and the code name is MIDDX. You also need the code for the course you wish to apply for – this is found in the 'at a glance' box above.

International students

International students from outside the EU can make a direct application.  We have a network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.  They have experience with helping students from your country and supporting them with their applications to study at Middlesex. Read more on international applications. 

Fees & funding

January Start Fees

The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for UK/EU students is £9,000.
The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for International students is £10,400.

Click here to find out more about fees, funding and our scholarships in 2012.

Careers & placements

Graduates will have a range of highly sought after employment skills as well as those specifically associated with planning, organisation and control. As a graduate you will be able to follow careers in the public and private sector.

A business or management degree opens the door to a range of careers - usually commanding good salaries.  You will have developed highly sought-after employment skills as well as those specifically associated with planning, organisation and control.

Our careers service offers you a range of support both while you’re studying with us – and after you’ve graduated.

Placements
Work placements are proven to increase your success in the job market – as well as being a fantastic experience. Business is a highly competitive field so we encourage as many students as possible to grasp this opportunity.

We have a dedicated Placement Service which helps you find and plan for a placement.

Graduate Employment prospects

Latest survey figures show that six months after graduating:

• 74% of Middlesex graduates were in employment or further study 
• 26% were assumed to be unemployed or doing something else, such as travelling  

(Based on data from respondents of the 2009-10 Destination of Leavers in Higher Education Survey)

The average salary for graduates included in the survey was £21,000 for those in full-time employment.

Examples of the types of jobs that graduates from the class of 2009-10 are doing include:

Quality Mgr,  HR Researcher, Office Mgr, Business Analyst, Legal Superviser, Business Mgr, Sales Manager, Account Assistant, Service Manager, Trainee Accountant.

at the following companies:

Informa, Met Police, Medicon Profs, NSV, Chelsea FC, Compass, Cambridge University, B&Q, Clinton Cards, M&S, Barclays, Halifax, TK Maxx, Santander, Burberry, Next.

Graduate Roles
Below are just a few examples of the types of careers that you could pursue after graduating with us: 

Administrative Manager – An administrative manager applies specialised technical or professional principles, practices and skills or the use of a wide range of administrative methods in the solution of problems. This may include planning, developing, evaluating, advising, and improving various management control systems, programmes and policies, for the purpose of improving the effectiveness and efficiency of programmes and operations.

Advertising Manager – As an advertising manager you will develop, implement, and manage a company's advertising strategy, both from a business, sales and technical perspective. Your job will be to initiate and manage discussion and sales with sponsors and agencies. You will spend your time negotiating agreements with outside sales representatives and managing the development of sales materials, including media kits.

Retail Area Manager – As a retail area manager you will be responsible for the management and overall profitability of a group of stores. You will promote the generation of sales, forming an important link in the management communication chain, by liaising with store managers as well as key departments within head-office.

Branch Manager – As a branch manager you will be responsible for the management of specialty or department stores. Your responsibilities will include the profits of the store, stock, costs, security and administration of the store, as well as the selection, interviewing and training of staff.