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BA (Hons) Business and Management

Gain in-demand business and marketing skills to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Explore consumer behaviour, digital strategies, and market trends while developing the expertise to drive business growth and innovation.

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Time investment: 4 years

Location: Online

Cost: £20,987

Language: English

About this degree

Stand out in a competitive industry with must-have marketing and business

Unlock the skills to influence consumer decisions and drive business success with a degree that blends strategic thinking and creative marketing expertise.

On this flexible degree from the University of Essex, you’ll explore how to identify and meet the ever-changing needs of consumers while understanding the global challenges shaping today’s business landscape.

With a focus on practical marketing strategies and a deep dive into buyer behaviour, you’ll learn how to create impactful campaigns and navigate the complexities of digital marketing.

Build a strong foundation in business

You’ll begin this degree by focusing on the fundamentals. You’ll cover key areas like marketing, human resources, and finance, giving you a solid base for understanding business dynamics.

These modules set you up to tackle real-world challenges, equipping you with essential skills for future success.

Understand consumer behaviour and craft impactful strategies

You’ll develop practical experience in project management and operations, learning how to handle resources, budgets, and deadlines.

These skills prepare you to lead projects with confidence and manage complex business tasks effectively.

Master global marketing strategies and business planning

Finally, you’ll refine your strategic marketing and global business knowledge by exploring international markets and advanced business strategies.

This will empower you to make informed decisions and get ahead of the competition in today’s global marketplace.

Develop analytical expertise to ensure projects are on track

You’ll walk away equipped with the skills to apply analysis and research techniques that ensure every project stays on track. This analytical focus allows you to make decisions based on facts, improving project outcomes and boosting your strategic impact.

Where you’ll be studying

Studying at the University of Essex Online

The University of Essex Online offers over 80 industry-led undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, computing, criminology, education, health, law and psychology.
Teaching is delivered 100% online and students benefit from a flexible approach to learning that allows them to fit study around their other commitments. Degrees are awarded by the University of Essex – ranked 12th in the Guardian University Guide 2026.

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Learning outcomes

Manage budgeting, cost control, and capital investment to optimise financial decision-making.

Utilise specialist project management software to plan, track, and execute business projects.

Analyse key international marketing theories to develop effective global strategies.

Develop marketing and sales plans that drive business growth and customer engagement.

Investigate practical and theoretical research challenges in business to inform strategic decisions.

Additional information

This course is tailored for individuals with non-traditional backgrounds, offering two different entry routes:

Academic route: three A-levels or equivalent
Work experience route: GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent, plus at least three years’ relevant work experience.

If English isn’t your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0.

This flexible online degree offers part-time study, allowing you to balance your professional and personal commitments while pursuing your education.

You'll complete written assignments, case studies, and practical projects, allowing you to demonstrate your marketing and business expertise against real-world application. Each task is structured to help you apply theory to practice, developing the skills employers look for.

Gain the expertise to thrive in marketing, advertising, sales, and business management. This degree prepares you for roles such as marketing manager, digital marketing specialist, brand strategist, sales executive, business development manager, and project coordinator.

You’ll also develop transferable skills suited for careers in financial services, consultancy, operations, and entrepreneurship – helping you stand out in today’s competitive job market.