Key information
UCAS code:
NN21
Typical offer:
112-120 UCAS points from 3 A levels, or equivalent
Showing content for section Overview
Overview
Stand out in the job market with a BA (Hons) Business and Management degree that gives you the skills and knowledge you need to excel in today’s evolving global business landscape, as well as a professional qualification from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Starting with a detailed core curriculum including marketing, finance, managing people and operations, this degree gives you strong foundations on which to build your business knowledge. After your first year you’ll choose which direction to take your learning.
Our six specialist pathways in business intelligence, operational excellence, financial management, people management, business transformation, and enterprise, are specifically designed to prepare you for a graduate career in key areas that employers are looking for.
You'll build your professional skills as you learn by working on live client projects and real industry problem-solving tasks throughout your course.
You’ll have support in every step of your journey with initiatives such as our mentoring scheme with industry professionals, and grow your confidence with client work and optional industry placements — including a paid placement year — so you’ll graduate ready to make an immediate impact in the workplace.
With opportunities to hear from industry guest speakers, join networking events, and take part in our 'Big Business Convo' topical discussions, you'll set yourself up for success in your career every step of the way.
Business and management studies at the University of Portsmouth is ranked 4th of the modern universities for research quality
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
Focusing on your interests
With a wide range of optional modules to choose from, you can tailor this degree to your interests. Module options cover a wide range of subjects, from new product development, to event planning, to public sector economics.
One thing I have liked about studying at the Faculty of Business and Law is the great amount of support I have received, from study support to placement search. I feel strongly supported at every stage of my degree.
Course highlights
- Take your learning in the direction that suits your interests — with specialist pathways in business intelligence, operational excellence, financial management, people management, business transformation, and enterprise
- Graduate with a professional qualification from the Chartered Management Institute alongside your degree, to really make your CV stand out
- Feel workplace ready with dedicated professional skills development and practical learning opportunities throughout your course
- Get hands-on experience such as offering advice to local small businesses as part of our Business Consultancy Project
- Take a paid placement year with a business such as L'Oreal or BAE Systems, or take a study abroad year
- Benefit from a range of support, through initiatives such as our industry mentoring scheme
- Grow your own network by joining extra-curricular events with industry professionals
- Get support for setting up your own business from our Entrepreneurs in Residence
No. 3
influential business school in the world
Financial Times Teaching Power Rankings 2021
Accreditation
We have partnered with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) so that you can gain a value added professional qualification alongside your degree. Students on our BA (Hons) Business and Management can be awarded a CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management and Leadership upon successful completion of their degree programme. Upon joining their degree course, students become members of the CMI and are able to access a range of benefits, resources and events to support their professional development.
Graduate stories: Meet Hannah
Hannah's story
Hannah graduated in 2019 with BA (Hons) Business and Management, and is now HR Business Partner with telecommunications giant BT. Hannah discusses her placement year at BT group and how she's applying the skills learned during her time at Portsmouth.
Hannah: My name is Hannah Ensley and I'm a HR business partner at BT. I studied business management at the University of Portsmouth.
Uni was a journey of Discovery for me. I think it made me more confident because it pushed me out of my comfort zone.
I chose to study at the University of Portsmouth because of multiple reasons — one of them was the location. I loved the fact of being in a city but also near the beach.
I also was sold on the course. When I went there for my open day I really enjoyed how they presented the course it really resonated with me and I was excited to join.
My light bulb moment was probably in my second year when I focused a bit closer to HR. I was excited to get my essays done, I was interested in learning about the different topics it was just very different to what I'd ever done before, touching on the different theories and the different Behavioural Sciences, understanding well-being and diversity and mental health.
I chose to do a placement year at BT and I focused on HR and corporate affairs, and it taught me so much, gave me so many transferable skills and opened my eyes to the business world.
Since graduating from the University of Portsmouth I have been working for BT. I love the variety of being a HR business partner but I love being close to the business, helping the team be the best they can be, helping to instil a great culture.
I think my passion is people. What drives my passion is being able to help people bring their best selves to work. It's all about empowering other people to be able to deliver and be the best person that they can.
Contact information
Contact AdmissionsEntry requirements
BA (Hons) Business and Management degree entry requirements
Typical offers
- A levels - BBB-BBC
- UCAS points - 112-120 points from 3 A levels, or equivalent (calculate your UCAS points)
- T-levels - Merit
- BTECs (Extended Diplomas) - DDM-DMM
- International Baccalaureate - 29
You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.
See alternative English language qualifications.
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Typical offers
- A levels - BBB-BBC
- UCAS points - 112-120 points from 3 A levels, or equivalent (calculate your UCAS points)
- T-levels - Merit
- BTECs (Extended Diplomas) - DDM-DMM
- International Baccalaureate - 29
You may need to have studied specific subjects or GCSEs - see full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.
English language requirements
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.
See alternative English language qualifications.
We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
We look at more than just your grades
While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.
Ideal skills and qualities for this course
In addition to meeting the course's entry requirements, we’re looking for good written, IT and analytical skills.
During this course your assessment will include problem-solving, good presentation techniques and the ability to work well in a team. But don’t worry, we’ll help you develop these abilities throughout the course.
We’re looking for an interest in business and management, so we’d encourage you to read the business sections of a quality newspaper and get some work experience (of any kind).
I have had some superb tutors and because they’ve been so committed to the subject, they’ve given additional support beyond what I’d ever expect and I’m really grateful for that.
Facilities and clinics
Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) room
Our technology enhanced active learning space promotes social learning.
Business Simulation Suite
Experience the boardroom in our replica business suite.
Careers and opportunities
This degree will open doors to a wide variety of careers in the business world.
Previous graduates of this course have secured jobs as:
- business transformation consultant
- marketing manager
- project manager
- army officer - squadron operations
- business development executive
- product marketing executive
- account manager
- personal banker
- compliance analyst
- supply chain manager
Graduates of this course have gone on to work for companies such as:
- Tesco
- British Telecom
- Deloitte
- HM Government
- IBM
- Disney
- BAE Systems
- NHS
- John Lewis Partnership
- Estée Lauder
- Volkswagen Group UK
- Microsoft
(Data taken from HESA Graduate Outcome surveys)
This degree also offers options to improve your business research skills. You could go on to do a postgraduate qualification in a business-related area such as project management, digital marketing or human resource management.
You could also choose to set up your own business with the help and support of the University.
Business Consultancy Project
Work for a client on a real brief in this optional Business Consultancy module.
Students work in teams of 3-4 to bid for a business project from local organisations, before working directly with the organisation to execute the project.
Clients range from small to medium sized organisations who could be from the private, public or third sector (such as charities, not-for-profits and community organisations).
Each project is different, but the tasks you compete could include:
- Using marketing theory to develop social media strategies
- Conducting competitor analysis
- Drafting sustainable business plans based on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals
- Conducting staff interviews
- Evaluating customer feedback
You’ll give your client regular updates on the project, and get feedback from them, other students and staff as you progress.
Past students have worked with Santander, local facilities management firm Inovolt, the Instant Kitchen Company startup, Solent Recovery College, and local radio station Express FM.
At the end of your project, you'll be invited to a celebratory event where you can network with representatives from the client organisations.
Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate
Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.
Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.
Why do a business management degree?
Read our blog to find out why a business management degree is a good idea and how it opens doors to lots of different careers.
Work placement year
You can boost your employability by taking an optional paid placement after your second or third year of study. Previous students have had placements in organisations such as:
- IBM
- SAP
- Hewlett Packard
- Lockheed Martin International
- Oracle
- Goldman Sachs
Many of our students are offered a graduate job by their placement employer.
Read about Daniella's placement experienceI worked within a small team to review and contact clients. I felt really proud to have so much responsibility within this team, it gave me a massive boost of confidence in my abilities.
The average salary for a 12-month paid placement is £19,800 for students in the Faculty of Business and Law. It could be more or less than this amount depending on your placement. You'll only pay a very small percentage of your tuition fee for this year.
You could also set up your own business, or take a voluntary placement.
If you don't want to take a whole placement year we offer plenty of other ways to get great work experience whilst you study, from summer internships to entrepreneurial support.
James' story
Find out more about James' experience at University of Portsmouth, and where he hopes his BA (Hons) Business and Management will take him.
The course looked fantastic and when coming here for one of the open days the lecturers really sold it to me. I could actually see myself being part of the Portsmouth community.
I was on placement last year at Bosch near London where I was working with in the marketing department and specifically trade marketing, dealing with the automotive parts for cars, lorries and motorcycles.
I look to start my own company in the future.
Ways to enrich your study
Entrepreneurs in Residence Programme (EiR)
We have over 20 experienced business entrepreneurs on our free EiR programme who can help you develop your business idea.
"I have a business idea, but I was not too sure about it. After this meeting, I felt so encouraged and positive about it! I felt so motivated to pursue my business venture. He gave me real life advice and helped me how to approach my ideas."
Rabab El Habchi Mahir meeting EiR Mark Smith
Study abroad year
Between your second and third year, you can choose to study abroad at one of our partner universities in Europe, Asia, Australia or North America. All classes are delivered in English and you'll still be able to get both your tuition fee and maintenance loans. You may also qualify for a government travel grant.
"Students that go abroad are more likely to obtain first-class honours [and] more likely to be in graduate employment than their non-mobile peers."
Universities UK International: 'Gone International, Rising Aspirations', 2019
Modules
Trends In Technology module
Take a look at one of the modules you can take on this course, exploring how AI and robotics are changing the world of business.
Social robotics is everything that we've been expecting from science fiction. Address such things as loneliness in old age.
More robotic and AI assistance is going into business, people who are entering the business and marketing world today have an understanding of and can see how it can be utilised for the benefit of the business.
What you'll study
Core modules
Core modules
Optional modules
The module will seek to outline a range of business modelling techniques that allow for improved operational designs under conditions that usually require the allocation of scarce resources using case studies.
This module will be delivered twice weekly in 2-hour workshops. The emphasis of this module will be on student centred learning activities, problem solving case studies and computational aspects. Employability skills are embedded throughout the course which requires communication skills to be used weekly both verbally and written, time management and research skills are paramount to progression whilst reflection is encouraged at key stages of the course.
Core modules
Optional modules
It requires critical engagement with appropriate literature, sound choice of research methods and carrying the planned approach into practice to produce a piece of independent research.
Students will be supported through a mix of large group sessions, workshops and individual appointments to support them to develop a research idea and to realise it as a piece of written work. Individual appointments will be arranged between supervisor and student.
It requires critical engagement with appropriate literature, sound choice of research methods and carrying the planned approach into practice to produce a piece of independent research.
Students will be supported through a mix of large group sessions, workshops and individual appointments to support them to develop a research idea and to realise it as a piece of written work. Individual appointments will be arranged between supervisor and student.
Completion of this module will allow students to reach an informed opinion on the basis of the empirical findings of their independent business research.
The module takes an applied approach, focussing on contemporary issues within the sports industry through the lens of economics, finance and governance. Topics covered include: Competitive balance in sporting contests, demand for live events, cross subsidisation between leagues, match outcome forecasting, financial sustainability, return on investment, streams of income, corruption, and governance.
Without the Marketing, Sales and Advertising units that I undertook at the University, I do not believe I would be on my current career path. I was able to discover the world of business-to-business marketing and understand why my skills were suited to this route. I got to attend my sessions with some extremely incredible speakers.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Teaching
Around 20% of your timetabled teaching will be online.
The majority of your timetabled teaching will be face-to-face and will include:
- lectures
- workshops
- seminars
- one-on-one tutorials
- practical sessions
- group discussions
We pride ourselves on the academic support we offer our students. In addition to our dedicated teaching team, you'll have a personal tutor, student engagement officers and study support staff to help you throughout your studies.
Assessment
How you're assessed will depend on the modules you choose.
As well as online assessments and coursework you may be assessed using:
- practical exercises
- written reports
- presentations
- portfolios
- research proposals
How you'll spend your time
One of the main differences between school or college and university is how much control you have over your learning.
We use a blended learning approach to teaching, which means you’ll take part in both face-to-face and online activities during your studies. As well as attending your timetabled classes you'll study independently in your free time, supported by staff and our virtual learning environment, Moodle.
A typical week
We recommend you spend at least 35 hours a week studying for this degree.
In your first year this is what your week may look like:
- timetabled teaching activities (lectures, seminars, tutorials, classes and workshops) = about 14 hours a week
- independent study (research, reading, coursework and project work, alone or in a group) = about 21 hours a week
You'll probably do more independent study and have less scheduled teaching in years 2 and 3, but this depends on which modules you choose.
Term dates
The academic year runs from September to June. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter.
Supporting you
The amount of timetabled teaching you'll get on your degree might be less than what you're used to at school or college, but you'll also get support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you'll also have access to our student engagement officers. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing, and refer you to specialist support services if you need extra help or support.
You'll have help from a team of study support tutors. Based within the Faculty of Business and Law, these tutors are familiar with the specific requirements your assignments and work closely with faculty academics. This means they can give you focused support with the specific study skills you need to be successful on your course. They're available face-to-face, by phone, email, and by video call.
They can help with:
- Academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations, projects and literature reviews)
- Reflective writing skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
- Understanding and using assignment feedback
- Managing your time and workload
- Revision and exam techniques
If you're a mature student, specialist support to help you return to learning is available.
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- academic writing
- note taking
- time management
- critical thinking
- presentation skills
- referencing
- working in groups
- revision, memory and exam techniques
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University's library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from librarians who specialise in business and law.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,250 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £9,250 a year, including our Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
- International students – £17,200 a year (subject to annual increase)
You won't pay any extra tuition fees to another university for taking part in a study/work abroad activity if you choose to do it for the whole academic year. During a year abroad you'll only have to pay a reduced fee to the University of Portsmouth.
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,250 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £9,250 a year, including our Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
- International students – £17,200 a year (subject to annual increase)
You won't pay any extra tuition fees to another university for taking part in a study/work abroad activity if you choose to do it for the whole academic year. During a year abroad you'll only have to pay a reduced fee to the University of Portsmouth.
Funding your studies
Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.
Additional course costs
Our accommodation section shows your accommodation options and highlights how much it costs to live in Portsmouth.
You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.
You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.
We recommend that you budget £75 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.
If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
If you take a placement year or study abroad year, tuition fees for that year are as follows:
- UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £1,385 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
- EU students – £1,385 a year, including Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
- International students – £2,875 a year (subject to annual increase)
Apply
How to apply
To start this course in 2024, apply through UCAS. You'll need:
- the UCAS course code – NN21
- our institution code – P80
If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
To start this course in 2025, apply through UCAS. You'll need:
- the UCAS course code – NN21
- our institution code – P80
If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.
You can also sign up to an Open Day to:
- Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
- Speak with lecturers and chat with our students
- Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join
If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.
Applying from outside the UK
As an international student you'll apply using the same process as UK students, but you’ll need to consider a few extra things.
You can get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region.
Find out what additional information you need in our international students section.
If you don't meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.