BSc (Hons) Business – Top-Up

Complete your honours degree in just one year. Develop advanced leadership skills, strategic thinking and professional capability at Level 6.

Qualification

Honours Degree
FHEQ Level 6

Duration

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

Assessment

100% Coursework
No exams

Progression

Postgraduate study
Level 7 (Masters)

Programme Overview

The BSc (Hons) Business – Top-Up programme is designed for students who have successfully completed a relevant Level 5 qualification and wish to progress to a full honours degree in business. The programme enables students to consolidate prior learning while developing advanced knowledge, strategic thinking and professional capability at honours level.

Delivered at Level 6, the Top-Up programme focuses on leadership, strategy, contemporary business challenges and independent research. It prepares students for senior roles in business and management or progression to postgraduate study.

Awarded by Plymouth Marjon University

This programme is delivered in partnership with Plymouth Marjon University, ensuring you receive a prestigious, nationally recognised honours degree qualification.

Entry Requirements

This Top-Up programme is designed for students who have completed a relevant Level 5 qualification such as an HND, Foundation Degree, or equivalent in Business or a related field. Contact our admissions team to discuss your qualifications.

Programme Aims

  • Develop advanced understanding of business leadership
  • Apply business theory to complex challenges
  • Strengthen analytical and research skills
  • Demonstrate independent learning at honours level
  • Prepare for senior roles or postgraduate study

Who Is This Programme For?

Level 5 Graduates

Students with HND, Foundation Degree or equivalent

Honours Degree Seekers

Learners wanting to achieve a full honours degree

Career Advancers

Professionals aiming for senior business roles

Postgraduate Aspirants

Planning to pursue Masters level study

Learning Outcomes

By completing the BSc (Hons) Business Top-Up, you will achieve advanced competencies across multiple areas.

Knowledge and Understanding

  • Critically evaluate business and management theories
  • Understand strategic and operational decision-making within organisations
  • Analyse contemporary business issues in global and ethical contexts
  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge in a chosen business-related area through independent study

Intellectual Skills

  • Critically analyse business data and evidence
  • Evaluate alternative strategies and solutions to complex business problems
  • Apply research methods to investigate business issues
  • Synthesize theory and practice to form reasoned conclusions

Practical Skills

  • Apply leadership and management skills in professional and organisational contexts
  • Conduct applied business research and consultancy-style analysis
  • Communicate complex ideas clearly in written, verbal and digital formats
  • Demonstrate ethical awareness and responsible decision-making

Transferable and Key Skills

  • Work independently and manage substantial workloads effectively
  • Demonstrate advanced communication and presentation skills
  • Reflect critically on personal and professional development
  • Apply problem-solving and decision-making skills in unfamiliar contexts

Programme Structure

The Top-Up programme consists of 120 credits at Level 6, including four taught modules and a substantial Honours Project.

Module Code Module Title Credits Assessment Semester
BSNH51 Leadership and Management 20 Coursework Semester A
BSNH52 Business Reality 20 Coursework Semester A
BSNH53 Contemporary Business Issues 20 Coursework Semester B
BSNH54 Operations and Strategy Management 20 Coursework Semester B
BSNH55 Honours Project 40 Coursework Year-long

Total Credits: 120 (Level 6)

Module Descriptions

Leadership and Management

Develops advanced leadership capability, decision-making and organisational influence.

Business Reality

Applies business theory to real-world organisational challenges and environments.

Contemporary Business Issues

Explores current global business trends, ethics, sustainability and responsible leadership.

Operations and Strategy Management

Focuses on strategic planning, operational management and organisational performance.

Learning and Teaching

The Top-Up programme uses an advanced and student-centred teaching model designed to develop your independence and critical thinking.

  • Interactive seminars and workshops
  • Case study and applied learning activities
  • Supervised independent research
  • Formative feedback and academic guidance
  • Use of digital learning and research resources

Assessment Methods

All Top-Up modules are assessed through 100% coursework, supporting deep learning and professional skill development without formal examinations.

  • Business reports and analytical assignments
  • Presentations and applied case studies
  • Strategic evaluations
  • Independent Honours Project

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of the Top-Up programme, you'll be well-prepared for advanced career opportunities and further academic study.

Postgraduate Study

Progress to Level 7 postgraduate programmes such as Master's degrees in Business, Leadership or Management. Your honours degree provides the academic foundation for advanced study.

Career Advancement

Well-prepared for management, consultancy and leadership roles across a wide range of sectors. Your advanced skills are highly valued by employers.

Why Choose the Top-Up Programme?

Fast-Track to Honours

Complete your full honours degree in just one year of full-time study

Advanced Skills

Develop leadership, strategic thinking and research capabilities at Level 6

Career Ready

Gain the qualifications and skills needed for senior management positions

Independent Research

Complete a substantial Honours Project in your area of interest

No Exams

100% coursework assessment allows you to demonstrate your knowledge effectively

Expert Support

Benefit from experienced academic staff and professional guidance throughout