Where will this course lead?

The Higher National Certificate is a nationally and internationally recognised qualification throughout the business world. It provides a basic grounding in the core areas of business and management. This is a level 4 qualification, equivalent to the first year of university and is worth 120 credits under the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).

The course has a huge advantage in that it provides you with several different opportunities. On completion you may choose to:

• Continue your studies for 1 more year and complete the Higher National Diploma in Business. Holders of the Higher Diploma in Business can study for one additional year at various UK universities and gain a business degree (e.g. BA Honours in Business
• Study further qualifications and ultimately chartered membership with Professional bodies such as CIPD (Human Resources), ILM (Leadership and Management, CIMA ( Accounting) CIM ( Marketing).
• Enter employment into specialist areas such as Accounting, Marketing, HR, Law or Project Management..

What will I study?

Subjects studied include:

The Contemporary Business Environment

In this unit you will develop the background knowledge and understanding of business, the functions of an organisation and the wider business environments in which organisations operate. You will examine the different types of organisation (including for-profit and not-for-profit), their size and scope (for example, micro, small and medium-sized enterprise, transnational and global) and how they operate. You will also explore the relationships that organisations have with their various stakeholders and how the wider external environments influence and shape business decision-making.

Marketing Process and Planning

In this unit you will be introduced to the dynamic world of the marketing sector and the wealth of exciting career opportunities available to support your decision-making in your career choices. You will have the opportunity to learn about the competencies and behaviours required by employers to work in the marketing sector. You will also be introduced to the key principles of marketing, enabling them to develop a marketing plan and to employ elements of the marketing mix to achieve results. You will study the underpinning theories and frameworks of marketing while relating them to real-world examples, including products and services that they encounter in their daily lives.

Management of Human Resources

Through this unit you will develop an understanding of the purpose and scope of HRM activities. You will be able to apply a range of people-management skills to enhance the performance of an organisation by finding solutions to people-related problems.

Leadership and Management

This unit will help you to understand the difference between the function of a manager and the role of a leader. You will consider the characteristics, behaviours and traits that support effective management and leadership.

Accounting Principles

This unit aims to introduce fundamental accounting principles that underpin financial operations and support good and sustainable decision-making in any organisation. You will develop a theoretical and practical understanding of a range of financial and management accounting techniques.

Managing a Successful Business Project

The aim of this unit is to offer you an opportunity to demonstrate the skills required for managing and implementing a small-scale business project. You will undertake independent research and investigation for carrying out and executing a business project that meets appropriate business aims and objective.

Operational Planning and Management

This unit will give you an insight into the complex nature of operations, processes and supply chain management, fundamental for understanding the holistic work environment in any industry and organisation.

Digital Business Practice

You will explore the impact of a range of digital technologies on the workplace. You will examine how these technologies can support businesses aims and services and allow interaction with customers, for example, to promote their business, to encourage people to visit their e-commerce site, to buy goods or services, to drive and increase sales, and to provide high levels of customer service.

Each unit is worth 15 Credit points.

How will this course be delivered?

The course is delivered through a combination of classroom teaching, practical workshops and independent learning/self-study.

You will attend college for two days a week for a total of 12 hours. There is an expectation of a further 4 hours per week of independent study.

The course is delivered over 12 months.

What qualifications will I get?

BTEC Higher National Certificate in Business,

To achieve this qualification, you will need to complete all units identified above which equates to 120 credits.

How will I be assessed?

You'll complete written assignments for each module that you study, letting you demonstrate the new knowledge you've gained and the skills you've mastered.

How do I get a place on the course?

Learners can receive advice and support from the Careers Advice and Guidance team at Solihull College & University Centre.

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants should be 18+ and have a GCSE in Maths and English (grade 4-5 (C) or above) or equivalent at level 2.

Have a qualification worth 80 UCAS tariff points (e.g. be in possession of a OCR/BTEC National Diploma in Business or two A-Levels, a T-Level in Business Management, or other equivalent qualifications (you may be assessed at interview).

Mature students with no formal qualifications may be considered if they have good communication skills and relevant work experience. This will be subject to a written assessment and interview to assess suitability for the course. Some candidates are required to attend a personal interview. Candidates are required to provide a suitable reference.

There will be no requirement for any books or equipment to be purchased.