Technology
26 October, 2025 2025-10-26 16:28Technology
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 |
Pathways
The BTEC Business programme is structured into two levels:
At Level 4, students develop fundamental knowledge and skills in key business areas such as marketing, accounting, human resource management, leadership, and project management.
At Level 5, learners deepen their expertise through one of three specialised pathways, preparing for career advancement or university-level study:
- Accounting and Finance Pathway: Focuses on financial reporting, management accounting, and taxation.
- Management Pathway: Emphasises leadership, organisational behaviour, and global business strategy.
- Marketing Pathway: Develops expertise in digital marketing, analytics, and brand communication.
This structure provides a clear progression from foundational business principles at Level 4 to specialised professional knowledge at Level 5, offering flexibility for learners to tailor their studies to their career goals.
