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Business skills for career starters and switchers no exams, with a degree top-up option

A two-year Pearson BTEC Higher National in Business at Levels 4 and 5, equivalent to the first two years of a degree. Coursework-based assessment, small classes, and a clear route to top up to a full bachelor's degree.

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HND (Higher National Diploma)

HND in Business (Level 4 & 5)

This route can be pursued with Student Finance when you meet the official criteria.

Review the funding guide, download the UniStart app to chat with real advisors, or return to all courses if you need a different campus or schedule.

Course Description

This Pearson BTEC HNC and HND in Business is taught across campuses in London, Leicester, and Nottingham. Delivered in small classes by experienced industry tutors, the programme is coursework-based with no exams, and offers flexible study to fit around work and family: two days a week, or two evenings plus a Saturday. Across 15 units over two years you build a solid foundation in business management. Year one (HNC, Level 4) introduces the business environment and the fundamentals of business; year two (HND, Level 5) develops analytical, financial, and operational skills. Tuition is £6,000 a year, covered by Student Finance, and after the HND you can progress to a final top-up year for a full bachelor's degree.

What You'll Learn

Pearson BTEC Higher National qualification, equivalent to the first two years of a degree

Small classes taught by experienced industry tutors

Flexible study options including evening and weekend classes

Student Finance available for eligible students

Progress to a final-year top-up for a full BA (Hons) degree

Course Structure

Year 1
  • The Contemporary Business Environment (15 credits)
  • Marketing Processes and Planning (15 credits)
  • Management of Human Resources (15 credits)
  • Leadership and Management (15 credits)
  • Accounting Principles (15 credits)
  • Managing a Successful Business Project (Pearson-set) (15 credits)
  • Entrepreneurial Ventures (15 credits)
  • Managing the Customer Experience (15 credits)
Year 2
  • Research Project (30 credits)
  • Organisational Behaviour Management (15 credits)
  • Managing and Leading Change (15 credits)
  • International Marketing (15 credits)
  • Business Strategy (15 credits)
  • Planning for Growth (15 credits)
  • Developing Individuals, Teams and Organisations (15 credits)

Entry Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The typical entry profile includes a Level 3 qualification in Business or a related subject, an Access to Higher Education Diploma, or an equivalent overseas qualification. Applicants without a Level 3 qualification may apply via the work-experience route with adequate proof of relevant experience. All applicants complete the College's English language proficiency assessment and an admissions interview.

Don't have A-levels? No problem.

We accept equivalent European qualifications: Diploma de Bacalaureat (Romania), Matura (Poland), Abitur (Germany), Baccalaureat (France), and more. Career changers and mature students with relevant UK work experience are also welcome.

Job Prospects

After the HND, graduates can progress into employment, start their own business, or complete a final top-up year for a full bachelor's degree. Possible pathways include Accounting and Finance, Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Operations Management.

Tuition Fees & Funding

Tuition Fees

£6,000 per year

Total available per year

up to £23,925

Tuition Fee Loan up to £9,790 + Maintenance Loan up to £14,135 (2026/27). Repayable loans, nothing to pay upfront. Student Finance England decides the amount.

Don't worry about fees. Your advisor will check your eligibility and help you apply for full funding, including any additional grants you may qualify for.

Estimate your funding →

Career Prospects

Graduates go on to work in high-demand roles across the UK:

Marketing Executive / Manager £28-50k
Business Development Manager £30-55k
Operations Manager £35-60k
Human Resources Officer £26-45k
Account Manager £28-45k
Entrepreneur / Business Owner £variable
Project Coordinator £28-45k
Management Consultant (after top-up) £35-65k

Salary ranges are indicative based on UK market data. Actual salaries depend on location, experience, and employer.

How You'll Learn

The programme covers marketing, human resource management, leadership and management, accounting principles, business strategy, organisational behaviour, change management, international marketing, and planning for growth. Year one builds core business knowledge and a Pearson-set business project; year two develops research skills and strategic thinking for the workplace.

Assessment Methods

Coursework-based assessment with no formal exams. Methods include written reports, presentations, posters, leaflets, and reflective journals. All units are internally assessed and externally verified by Pearson.

Schedule

Flexible study: two days per week or two evenings plus a Saturday. Designed to fit around work and family. Intakes in September and January.

Admissions Interview

Most applicants attend a short, friendly admissions interview. Before your interview, your UniStart advisor sends you a personalised preparation pack - a written guide and a video walkthrough - so you know exactly what to expect.

Students who use our preparation pack tell us they feel more confident and better prepared.

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Frequently Asked

Is funding really 100% covered?
Yes, eligible students can receive full funding covering tuition fees and living costs through Student Finance England.
How long does the application take?
Most applications can be completed in 15-30 minutes using our streamlined process and expert guidance.
Can I study part-time?
Many courses offer flexible study options including part-time, evening, and weekend classes to fit your schedule.

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