BSc (Hons) Business 1st Year

BSc (Hons) Business – Year 1

Begin your undergraduate business journey. Develop core business knowledge, academic skills and professional capabilities to succeed in today's dynamic business environment.

Qualification

Year 1
FHEQ Level 4

Duration

1 year full-time
Up to 2 years part-time

Assessment

100% Coursework
No exams

Progression

BSc (Hons) Business
Level 5 (Year 2)

Programme Overview

Year 1 of the BSc (Hons) Business programme introduces students to the core principles, functions and practices of modern business organisations. Building on prior learning and experience, this year develops students' understanding of how businesses operate within dynamic local, national and global environments.

The programme focuses on developing foundational business knowledge alongside academic, personal and professional skills, preparing students for more advanced applied study in later years of the degree.

Awarded by Plymouth Marjon University

This programme is delivered in partnership with Plymouth Marjon University, ensuring you receive a high-quality, nationally recognised qualification as part of your journey to a BSc (Hons) Business degree.

Year 1 Aims

  • Develop understanding of core business functions
  • Build academic and professional skills
  • Understand organisational structures and management
  • Develop communication and teamwork skills
  • Prepare for Level 5 applied study

Who Is Year 1 For?

Foundation Graduates

Students progressing from a Foundation Year or equivalent qualification

Standard Entry

Learners meeting standard undergraduate entry requirements

Practical Learners

Individuals seeking a supportive introduction to undergraduate business study

Learning Outcomes

By completing Year 1, you will develop comprehensive business knowledge and essential skills for professional success.

Knowledge and Understanding

  • Understand core theoretical frameworks within business and management
  • Identify and describe different types of organisations and their roles in society
  • Understand key business functions including marketing, finance, people and enterprise
  • Recognise the impact of business activity on economic, social and environmental contexts

Intellectual Skills

  • Review and summarise business literature and concepts
  • Interpret straightforward business data and information
  • Analyse basic business problems and propose informed solutions
  • Apply business theories to familiar organisational scenarios

Practical Skills

  • Apply business concepts to practical and simulated business contexts
  • Communicate effectively in academic and professional environments
  • Use basic numeracy and data skills to support business decisions
  • Demonstrate awareness of ethical behaviour and social responsibility in business

Transferable and Key Skills

  • Present business information clearly using verbal and written formats
  • Work effectively as part of a team and contribute to group tasks
  • Manage independent learning and time effectively
  • Reflect on personal skills development and employability

Programme Structure

Year 1 consists of 120 credits across six core modules delivered over two semesters, providing a comprehensive foundation in business.

Module Code Module Title Credits Assessment Semester
BSNC51 Business Environment 20 Coursework Semester A
BSNC52 Academic, Personal and Professional Development 20 Coursework Semester A
BSNC53 Marketing 20 Coursework Semester A
BSNC54 Accounting and Finance 20 Coursework Semester B
BSNC55 People Management 20 Coursework Semester B
BSNC56 Enterprise Creation 20 Coursework Semester B

Total Credits: 120 (Level 4)

Module Descriptions

Business Environment

Explores the political, economic, social and global factors that influence business organisations.

Academic, Personal and Professional Development

Develops academic study skills, employability, reflective practice and professional awareness.

Marketing

Introduces marketing principles including customer behaviour, branding and promotion.

Accounting and Finance

Develops financial awareness, budgeting skills and understanding of financial information.

People Management

Explores leadership, motivation, teamwork and organisational behaviour.

Enterprise Creation

Introduces entrepreneurship and the process of developing new business ideas.

Learning and Teaching

Year 1 uses a supportive and engaging teaching model designed to help you develop both knowledge and practical skills.

  • Interactive lectures and seminars
  • Practical workshops and group activities
  • Guided independent study
  • Formative feedback and academic support
  • Use of digital learning resources

Assessment Methods

All Year 1 modules are assessed through 100% coursework, supporting continuous learning and skill development.

  • Written coursework and reports
  • Presentations and group work
  • Case study analysis
  • Applied business tasks

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of Year 1, you'll be well-prepared to progress to the next stage of your business degree and build your career.

Academic Progression

Progress directly to Level 5 (Year 2) of the BSc (Hons) Business degree programme, building on your foundational knowledge with advanced applied learning.

Career Skills

Gain transferable skills relevant for entry-level roles in business and administrative environments while continuing your degree.

Why Choose BSc (Hons) Business Year 1?

Strong Foundation

Build comprehensive knowledge across all core business functions

Supportive Learning

Benefit from engaging teaching, practical workshops and academic support

Real-World Focus

Apply business concepts to practical and simulated business contexts

Professional Skills

Develop communication, teamwork and employability skills alongside academic knowledge

No Exams

100% coursework assessment allows you to demonstrate learning effectively

Clear Pathway

Seamless progression to Year 2 of your honours degree programme