Business

Programme Study

Business

Programme introduction

The Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the field, laying the foundation for essential core skills while preparing them for subject specialisation at Level 5. This programme equips students with a broad range of sector-specific knowledge and practical skills through research, self-study, guided learning, and real-world workplace scenarios. 

Knowledge and Understanding


Graduates of the programme will be able to:

  • Demonstrate a broad understanding of the contemporary business environment and the functions of organisations within diverse contexts.
  • Apply fundamental concepts of marketing, human resource management, leadership, accounting, and business law to real-world business scenarios.
  • Understand the principles of project management and their application to small-scale business projects.
  • Analyse the role and impact of digital technologies in enhancing business performance and competitiveness.

Skills

Graduates of the programme will be able to:

  • Apply marketing processes and planning techniques to support business growth and decision-making.
  • Use accounting principles to support financial operations and contribute to sustainable decision-making.
  • Manage and implement business projects effectively, demonstrating planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, within professional and academic contexts.
  • Demonstrate digital literacy skills relevant to the modern workplace.

Other Attributes

Graduates of the programme will:

  • Display professional behaviours and ethical awareness in business contexts.
  • Be adaptable, resilient, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
  • Show initiative in managing their own learning and professional development.
  • Be prepared for diverse career opportunities across core business functions or for progression to further study.

Programme Structure

The programme is made up of core units (compulsory) and specialist/optional units, allowing learners to gain both essential knowledge and the opportunity to explore areas of personal or professional interest.
HNC (Level 4): 8 units (equivalent to 120 credits)

Module Type Credit
The Contemporary Business Environment Core 15
Marketing Processes and Planning Core 15
Management of Human Resources Core

15
Managing a Successful Business Project Core 15
Accounting Principles Core 15
Leadership and Management Core 15
Digital Business in Practice Optional 15
Business Law Optional 15

Assessment Methods

The form of assessment in the programme is carried out through assignments, projects, case studies, and presentations, helping students demonstrate their understanding, critical thinking, and the ability to apply knowledge to real-world situations. The programme does not feature traditional written exams, instead emphasising continuous assessment and practical competency throughout the entire course of study.

Programme Structure & Specialisations

The BTEC Business programme is designed in two academic stages:

  • At Level 4, students are equipped with foundational knowledge in core areas such as marketing, accounting, human resource management, leadership, and project management.

  • Moving on to Level 5, students can select one of three specialisations to develop in-depth expertise, aligning with their career aspirations:

    • Accounting and Finance: Focuses on financial reporting, management accounting, and taxation.

    • Management: Emphasises leadership skills, organisational behaviour, and global business strategy.

    • Marketing: Specialises in digital marketing, data analytics, and integrated brand communications.

This flexible structure allows the learner to progress from a broad knowledge base to deep specialisation, preparing them for a career path or further university studies, both domestically and internationally.

Progression after Level 4 (HNC)

The BTEC Business programme is structured into two levels:

Students who complete BTEC Level 4 may continue to Level 5 (HND) at partnered universities and colleges in Vietnam, such as:
In Vietnam (Level 5 progression):

  • Banking Academy
  • Academy of Finance
  • National Economics University
  • University of Commerce
  • FPT University – Business Faculty
  • RMIT Vietnam

After completing Level 5, learners may progress to Top-up Bachelor's Degree programmes (Level 6) to obtain an international bachelor’s degree in just 1 additional year.
Global Top-up Opportunities (Level 6 / Bachelor Year 3)
Graduates from BTEC Level 5 can progress directly into Top-up Year 3 at universities worldwide including:

  • University of South Wales (UK)
  • University of Sunderland (UK)
  • University of Northampton (UK)
  • Deakin University (Australia)
  • Griffith University (Australia)
  • PSB Academy (Singapore)

➡️Students can complete their full international Bachelor’s degree in only 3 years.