Course overview
Develop practical business knowledge with an award from the University of Suffolk.
Build academic confidence and practical business knowledge through a Level 3 foundation stage followed by the full Level 4 Business Studies CertHE.
Course overview
This two-year route is designed for students who want additional preparation before undergraduate study. The foundation stage develops academic, communication, numeracy and digital skills, while Level 4 introduces the contemporary business environment, marketing, management, statistics, finance and business frameworks.
Study location and delivery
The programme is available at study centres in London and Manchester and is awarded by the University of Suffolk.
Course structure
The published course structure comprises 240 credits completed over 2 years. Optional modules are shown separately where the official curriculum requires a choice.
Curriculum
Complete the published 240-credit curriculum.
03Level 3 · Trimester 1
40 credits
40 credits
Level 3 · Trimester 1
40 credits
- Context of Business20 credits
- Study Skills for Higher Education20 credits
03Level 3 · Trimester 2
40 credits
40 credits
Level 3 · Trimester 2
40 credits
- Introduction to Information Technology20 credits
- Business Communication20 credits
03Level 3 · Trimester 3
40 credits
40 credits
Level 3 · Trimester 3
40 credits
- Numeracy and Data Analysis20 credits
- Integrated Professional Skills for the Digital Age20 credits
04Level 4 · Trimester 1
40 credits
40 credits
Level 4 · Trimester 1
40 credits
- Contemporary Business Environment20 credits
- Introduction to Statistical Methods20 credits
04Level 4 · Trimester 2
40 credits
40 credits
Level 4 · Trimester 2
40 credits
- Leadership and Management20 credits
- Principles of Marketing20 credits
04Level 4 · Trimester 3
40 credits
40 credits
Level 4 · Trimester 3
40 credits
- Business Framework20 credits
- Introduction to Financial Statements20 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Teaching uses lectures, tutorials, workshops, group discussions and presentations.
Coursework can include assignments, reports, case studies, projects and group work. Exact assessment methods and weighting should be confirmed for the selected intake.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic and admissions requirements
- Five GCSE passes or an overseas qualification confirmed as equivalent through UK ENIC/NARIC.
- Applicants complete the London School of Commerce admissions process, including an interview and personal-statement review or pre-qualifying assessment.
- Non-standard applicants may be considered using relevant work experience, evidence of examination ability and an independent reference.
- Final admission approval is made by the University of Suffolk.
English language
- Applicants whose first language is not English should normally demonstrate English at CEFR B1 or an accepted equivalent.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
The listed tuition fees are those published for the 2026/27 academic year.
Fees may change for later academic years; confirm the amount for the selected intake before applying.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Complete a 120-credit foundation stage and a 120-credit Level 4 CertHE stage.
Develop academic, numeracy, digital and communication skills for higher education.
Apply core business, marketing, management and finance concepts.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career directions
- Business administration
- Operations support
- Marketing support
- Finance support
- Progression to further business study
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Where is the course taught?
The course is available at study centres in London and Manchester.
Who awards the qualification?
The qualification is awarded by the University of Suffolk.
When can I start?
A current intake date is not published on the course page. Confirm the next available start date before applying.
How much is the course?
Published 2026/27 tuition is £5,760 for Level 3 and £9,535 for Level 4, giving an indicative two-year total of £15,295.