Undergraduate BSc (Hons)

Business Management with Entrepreneurship with Foundation Year

Attendance

Full-time

With placement

Course

Four year

Five year

Next enrolment

September 2025

Introduction

In a nutshell

This course is also available with a professional placement year option.

To apply for this programme with industry placement or study abroad year, please speak to our enquiries team for more information

This foundation year programme will prepare you for your future business studies. You will gain the confidence and abilities needed to continue your education and have a successful career within the business industry, whether that be working for an established organisation or building your own enterprise.

  • Study the fundamental principles of entrepreneurship and business management
  • Gain a base level of knowledge in business
  • Develop your academic and personal skills, preparing you for future studies

Become industry ready 

Our teaching is practical and career-focused, with input from our industry partners, so you'll build the expertise that employers look for. You'll develop personal skills, such as communication and confidence, alongside the practical, including business concepts and the tools and techniques used in the industry.

You’ll look ahead to the technologies that will affect the work of business professionals in the future and gain the essential digitals skills that will help you go further in the industry, such as: 

  • iDea Bronze Award
  • Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word and 365
  • Body swap technology

Our Business Management with Entrepreneurship course is dual accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), the only chartered professional body in the UK dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership.

Your journey starts here

Ready to take the next step? Discover more by attending an Open Day, or speak to our dedicated course enquiries team for further information. 

Placement

options available

International

students accepted

Course accreditations

CMI Chartered Management Institute logo

This is for you if...

1.

You want to build a foundation of knowledge ahead of your future studies

2.

You are looking for a business education that prepares you for a future career

3.

You’re new to higher education, want a career change or need support with academic skills

Course details

All about the course

Your foundation year will give you a grounding in business, preparing you for your future studies. As you progress into your first, second and third years of study, you will further develop your understanding in the fields of business and entrepreneurship, developing the skills needed for responsible leadership and strategic thinking.

You will also have access to placement, study abroad year and additional opportunities

Foundation Year

Foundations of Business

This module will introduce you to key concepts of business and management, looking at what business is (and isn’t). You will be encouraged to draw on real-life examples found in the businesses you use in your every day life. You will develop an understanding of the key functions used within contemporary businesses and learn about the tools and techniques used in business for analysis and planning. 

Academic and Personal Skills

Academic and Personal Skills is delivered with your future in mind. This module takes you through how to get to grips with the technology you need to succeed, as well as using the library, how to reference and how to produce the different styles of academic writing.

It also helps you to develop yourself; you will create a CV, learn how to write a cover letter and find out what your learning style is. The module has guest speakers who share their expert knowledge and experience with you.  All the skills covered in this module will help you to succeed in your chosen degree.

Sustainable Business Development

This module looks at what’s involved in starting up a sustainable business. You will discover what is needed for long term business success. We’ll look at financing and funding, business formation, planning, business ethics and sustainability along with other core aspects of start-ups. You will work closely with industry partners to gain insight into the world of start-ups. If you are interested in starting a business, this module will really help you to discover what is involved. You also gain key knowledge which your degree will build upon.  

Digital Business

This module will explain the importance and key elements of digital business. You will explore how digital business ideas drive technology choices and how those technologies support the development of the business.  

Business Project

This module is studied in term 2 of the foundation year and brings together everything that you have learnt so far on the foundation year. This is your opportunity to put your knowledge into practice. You will work as part of a team to develop a business idea; you will work through the process of setting up the business. As a team you will pitch your idea to a panel to gain investment in your start-up. You will then start the business and create an event with the profits being donated to a local charity of your choice. Whatever your chosen business discipline this module will give you the opportunity to demonstrate and develop your skills. 

Employability for Life

The module aims to acquire and develop an understanding of the employability skills required to succeed in your chosen industry. This is a practical module which will help you create and develop a professional CV and will develop your understanding of the recruitment and selection process. You will learn essential life-long skills to help you succeed in job applications whether they are for part-time work whilst you are a student or for your future graduate career.

Year One

Understanding Organisations

This module provides you with an introduction to the key functions of business and is an opportunity to see how they work. You will get an understanding of functions including people management, accounting, marketing and operations, and how they underpin business success. This is illustrated through the lens of some of the successful businesses from across the Greater Manchester region that Salford Business School work with: we will look at a range of businesses including startups, family businesses and large scale enterprises and multinationals from different industry sectors. It is a first opportunity to see what makes businesses tick and will help you think about your future learning and employment journeys.

Creative Problem Solving and Decision Making

How do we get inside the problems that businesses face, and reach the decisions that will solve them and support the future development of the organisation? This module will introduce you to systems thinking, providing an approach that helps you examine complex problems and develop holistic solutions. You will be encouraged to think creatively, developing the skills you need for creating innovative solutions that will help you with your studies and future career.

The Future of Business

What are the opportunities for business in the future? Starting with a grounding in the business context you will gain an understanding of economics and the digital environment, including the role of the digital economy. We will explore some of the key challenges that are on the horizon such as the impact of massive digitisation and industry 4.0, inclusive growth, food security and the climate emergency, and look at the opportunities for business to provide responsible and sustainable solutions

Digital and Business Skills

The Digital and Business Skills module introduces a range of digital tools for academia and the workplace. Important business skills such as management, collaboration and teamwork are fundamental to the module. Regular engagement with online platforms provides tasks to improve digital competency. Also, co creation work presents self-reflection and confidence building opportunities. Gaining the inspiring digital enterprise award (iDEA), completing LinkedIn learning assessments for Microsoft software applications, and completing collaborative video creation tasks will increase your digital and business skills as you progress towards the completion of this module. Digital Business is here to stay, so it is vital to improve these 21st century skills.

Data Analysis for Business

In this module you will be introduced to a variety of data analysis methods, which will be practiced on real world data sets. Regular formative assessment will be set for practice, with timely feedback given to aid learning and personal development.

You will have an opportunity to formulate your own research questions before analysing data to draw reasonable conclusions. The module will predominantly utilise real data and include a mixture of computer-based questions, calculations, interpretation and drawing conclusions.

Business Finance in Practice

This module is designed to provide you with practical experience of key aspects of business finance. Using a business simulation tool, you will have the opportunity to apply these concepts in a practical context. The module embeds group working skills and the experiential approach provides the opportunity to gain experience of defining, planning and delivering a project.

Year Two

Professional Development

This module will enable you to plan and carry out appropriate professional development activities to increase your employability and performance. These include self-presentation, professional networking, project planning and implementation, team working, influencing and multimedia communication. You will gain all the necessary experience required to take advantage of global employment opportunities. 

 

Young Enterprise

Students will be introduced to a variety of methods of analysis to inform decision making which will be practised on real data sets to support a new business venture as part of the Young Enterprise programme. Formative assessment will be set, with timely feedback given to aid learning and personal development.



The decision making techniques introduced in the module can be applied to a wide range of settings, such as interpreting market performance, forecasting growth, make or buy decisions, optimisations of scarce resources, marketing planning etc.

Project Management

During this module we take a detailed look at various aspects of Project Management through a variety of means such as lectures and practical seminars informed by research and industrial collaborations. We will focus on theoretical approaches, tools and techniques of planning and controlling projects.

We will discuss project management as an important and integral part of a business whether this is product or service based.

Innovation Skills for Enterprise

This module will enrich your knowledge on how to generate and validate business ideas using a range of creative thinking tools. The primary focus of this module is to enable you develop your own business idea for a target market by exploring models of innovation, using practical business models, live case studies and robust market research. You will have the opportunity to apply your creative skills by designing a feasible business idea, conducting your research and interpreting your findings to justify the viability of the business ideas.

Marketing to Consumers in the Digital Age

The module will introduce you to key issues in marketing and the impact that this has on consumers as well as their behaviour. It draws upon key theories in marketing and consumer behaviour and reflects on the relevance to marketing practice in the digital age.

Live Project for Business

Optional Year

Professional Placement

You have the option to do a professional placement year, taking a year in industry to learn in a real-life environment whilst earning a salary and paying no tuition fees.

This is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of and we will help you find out about vacancies and make the right connections with high profile employers through regular events and presentations.

 For more information, please visit the placement and internships page

You have the option to do a professional placement year, taking a year in industry to learn in a real-life environment whilst earning a salary and paying no tuition fees. For more information, please visit the placement and internships page.

Year Three

Business Ethics and Sustainability

This module equips you with an appreciation and in-depth understanding of the implications of Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability within national and international organisations. This module will also develop your knowledge with respect to the importance of the balance between shareholders, stakeholders and the purpose and values of the organisation. It will explore the roles of social and technological innovation in global ethical organisations in order to prepare you for future employability.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Employers tell us that they are looking for employees with an entrepreneurial mindset.  Or perhaps you're thinking of setting up your own business.

In this module you have the opportunity to undertake an enterprise project for an internal or external sponsor on a topic of common interest.  Alternatively, you can use this opportunity to undertake in-depth research for your own project, for example, a business plan if you are wanting to start up a company after you graduate. The nature of the project will be negotiated by yourself, the module leader and the sponsoring company. 

Contemporary Model for New Business Creation

This module provides an engaging opportunity for you to learn how to use contemporary business models to create new business ideas. You will be supported to use various business model tools to create new business idea, evaluate your ideas, reflect on the viability of the ideas and their implications to the new or targeted markets.  You will apply components of the Business Model Canvas (e.g., value proposition, revenue streams, customer segments and customer relationships) to design your individual business idea. We will use a blended learning environment, mixing face-to-face and online learning.

Strategic Management

This module will provide a detailed understanding of business strategy, so that you acquire an organisation-wide perspective through exploring strategy techniques and processes within the global environment. You will draw together your knowledge from across the programme, and apply this to real world organisational problems, deploying accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry, some of which are at the forefront of strategic research and practice. The module prepares you for a career in business and management, developing the next generation of managers, and you will work on industry problems drawn from your pathway specialism.

Leadership and Management in Business

This module offers a unique in-depth knowledge and understanding of the key practical and theoretical aspects of leadership and management in contemporary organisations. There is a focus on specific individual leaders, leadership styles and traits and offers an insight into how leaders operate in an organisational context. The module also explores personal leadership, the development of leadership and how leadership occurs at all levels. Practically the module will invite you to develop your own leadership style and experience, enhancing  employability.

This module enables you to explore your own leadership styles and traits and evaluate how these impact on the management of people.

Launching and Growing your Business

This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate your learning from previous years. You will enhance your knowledge and develop techniques to create and bring a business idea to life. We will focus on exploring what is needed to be an entrepreneur and provide an understanding of the business creation process. The primary focus of this module is to enable you to develop a start-up strategy for an identified business idea by exploring models, tools, approaches, live case studies and robust market research.  You will be provided with an opportunity to apply your creative and entrepreneurial skills in planning and designing a business plan for start-up.

Optional modules

You will choose one of the following 10 credit module options. 

Big Data Analytics

Modern businesses derive significant insight from applying advanced analytical techniques to massive volumes of data. In the module, you will learn a range of established Big Data and analytics techniques and the value they provide to organisations. On successful completion of the module, you will not only be able to collect and analyse data to underpin business decisions but also be able to apply them within the business context, looking at strategy, business goals and organisational competitive advantage.

Technology Innovation

Technology innovation is concerned with developing your awareness and understanding of the use of digital technologies and their role in digital transformation. We will examine contemporary issues in this area and explore the impact that digital technology had had on business and will have in the future. On completion, you will have a critical awareness of the digital industry and have considered the application of technology to business problems. This module links with and is supported by Launch@ Salford, the University’s incubation centre.

Internship

A short internship, whether paid or unpaid, is invaluable for you to develop and demonstrate your skills in the real-world. This modules allows you to gain credits for work you do that is relevant to your degree and contributes to your employability. The Business School will provide support and guidance when you are looking for internship opportunities. This may be done during the summer period between the end of level 5 and the start of level 6 but other opportunities may be possible provided the relevant amount of work-based learning is undertaken. During term time, you will work on a reflective report to demonstrate what you learned during the internship.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

Through a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials, using learning activities such as business simulations, you will develop the practical skills and theoretical knowledge that you'll need when you begin working. Our academics are experts in their field and work closely with industry to ensure that our courses reflect the needs of businesses.

We use different assessment techniques in different modules and try to ensure all assessments reflect the types of work you will do after graduating. This may include portfolio work, multiple choice questions, group reports and problem-solving questions.

For further information about teaching and assessment, please speak to our dedicated course enquiries team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between business management and entrepreneurship?

Whilst similar, business management and entrepreneurship do have different meanings. Business management relates to the running of an established business, whereas entrepreneurship encompasses the generation and set up of one's own enterprise. 

What is a business management with entrepreneurship course?

Business Management with Entrepreneurship combines the principles of business management with the skills and knowledge needed to start and run your own business. 

How many years is the Business Management with Entrepreneurship course?

The typical course length is 3 years, however, if you choose to take a foundation year or a placement year, this increases to 4 years. Choose to take both, and you'll be studying for 5 years. 

Meet Joseph

"I studied Business Management Studies which was a four-year course with a year working in placement. 

The university introduced me to Handelsbanken through the placement meetings that took place. I didn't seek out a career in finance or banking but the opportunity I had was too good to miss. Because of this, I believe the University of Salford helped me to pursue the career in banking I have now. 

Salford Business School and my course definitely helped me achieve my ambitions, I am very happy and proud of my achievements and where I am today."

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

A postgraduate degree is a great option if you want to take your knowledge and skills to the next level. Salford graduates and alumni also receive a fee discount.

A Business Management with Entrepreneurship graduate could continue their studies at postgraduate level in areas such as:

A taste of what you could become

An entrepreneur

A business manager

a business analyst

and more...

Career Links

Studying Business Management with Entrepreneurship at Salford Business School will open opportunities in a wide variety of career paths, and by completing a professional placement year, you can enhance your skills, confidence and employability.

We work with a wide range of employers to support our students, helping them to develop their skills and access internships, placements and graduate jobs. Employers we have worked with previously include PwC, EY, Bank of New York Mellon, Beevers & Struthers, the NHS and Salford City Council.  

Requirements

What you need to know

This course isn’t suitable for international students. If you are an international student and interested in studying a foundation year, please visit our International Foundation Year course page.

Applicant Profile 

You might be a school leaver looking to better prepare for academic life or perhaps you didn’t get the grades you needed. You might also be a returning student, having taken a break from studies and looking to regain your confidence in academic processes. Whatever your situation, our foundation year programmes help learners gain the skills, understanding and confidence needed to progress to further studies. 

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

Maths and English at grade C / grade 4 or above. Applicants who do not have the equivalent of grade C or above in these areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.

UCAS Tariff points

64 UCAS Tariff points.

A level

64 UCAS Tariff points.

BTEC National Diploma

MPP in any subject

T levels

Pass (D or E in the core subject)

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application, we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.

How much?

Your tuition fees are regulated by the UK government who has proposed changes to tuition fees for UK students studying in England from 1 August 2025. The fee stated reflects this proposed change, but remains subject to parliamentary approval. Your tuition fees may increase in your first and each subsequent year of your programme to the maximum amount permitted by UK law or regulation for that academic year.

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2025/26 £5,760.00 for Foundation Year and £9,535.00 for subsequent years.

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Apply now

All set? Let's apply!

Still have some questions? Register for one of our Undergraduate Open Days or contact us:

By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By phone: +44 (0)161 295 4545

Additional UCAS Information

Business Management with Entrepreneurship UCAS Course ID - N192
Business Management with Entrepreneurship with Placement Year UCAS Course ID - N197

Enrolment dates

September 2025

September 2026

UCAS information

Course ID N198

Institution S03

88%of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well.

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