Global Business top-up BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
Top-up courses
Young man sitting at a table smiling at a young woman

Consider how businesses operate and are successful both locally and globally, in preparation for a wide range of careers in management. 

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University London (City of London)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time

Duration

1 year full-time
2 years part-time

Course code

N190

Start date

September 2024
January 2025


Course overview

Gain a holistic understanding of management through core subjects such as strategy, marketing, finance, sustainability, project management, entrepreneurship and human resource management. 

  • Think like a manager from the offset by enhancing your knowledge and skills, making you more attractive to future employers. 
  • Improve your communication, interpersonal and life-long learning skills designed to increase both your academic proficiency and employability. 
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Global ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities

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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field

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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

  • Opportunity to choose a one-year or a two-year top-up 
    This course is aimed at students who want to complete their undergraduate studies at Coventry University London and have completed one or two years of a subject-related degree. Students apply knowledge developed on previous courses and professional experience to contemporary business themes on the course.
  • London location
    A university in the City of London, one of the world’s premier business locations and a leading financial centre. You will find a diverse range of exciting businesses, from innovative start-ups to huge multi-nationals.  
  • Industry insight 
    Evaluate real-life business challenges with industry professionals at guest lectures, simulations and live projects2.
  • Global learning experience 
    This course is considered from a global perspective to help you understand international management issues, with the aim of preparing you for your career prospects upon successful completion. 
  • Prepare for your future
    The course aims to develop you as career-ready, globally aware graduate with management, communication, numerical and information technology skills. If you’re interested in starting your own business, you could get business start-up advice and support from our Enterprise Hub.

The academics are really passionate about what they teach. That has made a huge difference. I also really like where the university is located because it's surrounded by businesses. As business students, it provides a glimpse into the world of business and a really nice feeling about the world we are hoping to work in.

Joselyn Moreno Cajamarca, BA Global Business top-up student, quoted in 2021
Joselyn Moreno Cajamarca with London skyline in the background

What you'll study

The first year (level 5) of this course aims to help you develop key skills in business management. It also reinforces the main concepts and skills in business and communication, global business, business sustainability, human resource, accounting and finance. You will be encouraged to develop your knowledge, and business English and communication skills especially in report writing, critical thinking, evidence gathering and interpretation; employability and work-based skills.

Modules

  • This module aims to provide you with a range of academic and professional skills, such as structure, argument and style in order to support your studies on the global business course and become an effective independent learner.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to give you in-depth knowledge of the scale and impact of internationalisation. Issues addressed will include globalisation and international trade, global financial practice and ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) among others.

    Compulsory

  • This module seeks to advance your knowledge and understanding of managing culture in a global business environment. By studying national cultures and frameworks you can understand the cross-cultural issues managers in international organisations may face.

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to advance your knowledge on business sustainability. You will learn about implementing business models/strategies within the appropriate frameworks to comply with future requirements.

    Compulsory

  • This model introduces business students to financial decision-making concepts and tools that are commonly used in business management. It will foster your ability to apply basic principles, concepts, and techniques of accounting and finance in business management.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce you to methods of managing human resources in the workplace. It will use your knowledge of relevant human resources management theory and link it with current human resource management practices in organisations.

     

    Compulsory

The final year (level 6) of the course aims to produce graduates who are ready for employment in a subject-related role or to progress to study a postgraduate degree. At this level, the course is designed to provide you with the opportunity to critically apply theory and practice in a wide range of complex business situations, while you evaluate alternative solutions in a range of modules. These modules seek to encourage you to self-manage more of your learning through the research/management report and primary research reports.

Modules

  • This module introduces you to concepts, theories and frameworks that will support your understanding of strategic decision-making and its impact on global businesses. It is designed to give you a critical appreciation of the core drivers that impacts the strategic position of organisations in a dynamic business environment.

    Compulsory

  • The main aim of this module is to provide you with a thorough understanding of the main theories and principles of Digital Marketing. Therefore, the module will mainly focus on areas such as Digital Marketing’s Micro and Macro environment, Digital Marketing Strategies and the Implementation and Practice of Digital Marketing.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of business research methodology and a range of research skills. As a result of this module, you will have developed a comprehensive research proposal on a subject of their choice that could be developed into an original independent research project.

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to introduce students to the processes of project management in a business environment. It aims to develop students’ understanding and skills in the use of project management tools and techniques, and in the impact of effective people skills on the outcomes of projects.

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to create a shared and critical assessment of the knowledge, skills and attitudes that make up what it means to be entrepreneurial and innovative – discovering and acting upon opportunities and ideas, and transforming them into social, cultural, or financial value for others.

    Compulsory

  • Choose one of these options:

    • Business Research Project - 20 credits

    The foundation for any strong original research proposal is an understanding of accepted knowledge within a chosen discipline.  In this module, you will critically review the literature and help develop a thorough understanding of, and insight into, previous research that relates to a set of specific research question(s) and objectives. This module will help you set your understanding of business research in context by critically discussing and referencing work that has already been done, drawing out key points and presenting them in a logically argued way, and highlighting those areas where the research will provide fresh insights.

    • Work Placement2 - 20 credits

    You will be required to reflect critically on your experience of working with an employer, as if you were a new manager entering the workplace. You will draw on feedback sought from key stakeholders from this module. This will normally include the employer, colleagues at the employer organisation, and supervisor. The critical reflection will enable you to produce a tailored Personal Development Plan for your future career.

    Optional


How you'll learn

We designed the teaching and learning for this course to give you a strong academic knowledge of key theories and concepts to help you understand and appreciate current and relevant research in this subject area. You also have the opportunity to apply the theories and concepts to current practice through real-life scenarios, case studies and a variety of class activities. The course will also give you the opportunity to develop and demonstrate your essential analytical skills and respond to employer-related problems by making a set of clearly evaluated recommendations.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Please contact registry.london@coventry.ac.uk for more information about studying this course part-time.


Teaching contact hours

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 5 contact hours per week.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 10 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.


Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

  • Coursework
  • Presentations
  • Digital posters
  • Essays and reports

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.


International experience opportunities

This course takes a globalised approach to the curriculum, placing your learning in the context of international challenges, opportunities and regulatory frameworks. It will prepare you for working globally, whether overseas, or for a multi-national, or for a firm which trades internationally. You may benefit from studying alongside a truly international cohort of students, learning from the perspectives they bring while developing your own ability to work cross-culturally.

There are opportunities to visit, study or work in the UK or overseas2. You could get the chance to visit advertising agencies, financial institutions, manufacturers and small businesses. Past students have visited Paris, Berlin, Helsinki, Rotterdam and Dubai.

The Global Business top-up aims to provide you with an in-depth understanding of various business-related subjects. The course runs over two semesters and gives the learner the opportunity to gain employability skills and knowledge to grow further in the field of business.

Orhan Demirovski, course director, quoted in 2022
Headshot of Orhan Demirovski

Kaveri joined Coventry University London in 2016 to study for her Global Business top-up BA, hoping that her time studying with us would give her valuable insights into the business world. After graduating in 2017, she established successful e-commerce start-up, My Pooja Box. Find out how Kaveri applies what she learnt at Coventry University London to her business even today.

Kaveri's story
Headshot of Kaveri Sachdev

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

For entry at Level 5 - 120 credits (Accreditation of Prior Learning with 120 credits at level 4) obtained in a business related subject area.

For entry at Level 6 - 240 credits (Accreditation of Prior Learning with 120 credits at level 4 and 120 credits at level 5) obtained in a business related area. A HND in a business related area with 240 credits awarded may also be considered for entry into the one-year programme, this is subject to approval from the course director.

A combination of professional and academic qualifications and work experience may also be considered.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

For entry at Level 5 - 120 credits (Accreditation of Prior Learning with 120 credits at level 4) obtained in a business related subject area.

For entry at Level 6 - 240 credits (Accreditation of Prior Learning with 120 credits at level 4 and 120 credits at level 5) obtained in a business related area. A HND in a business related area with 240 credits awarded may also be considered for entry into the one-year programme, this is subject to approval from the course director.

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  •  Applicants must possess a minimum IELTS of 6.0 overall with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £9,250 per year Request fee information

EU £9,250 per year with EU support bursary**
£16,800 per year without EU support bursary**
Not available
International £16,800 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees3 and student loans visit our Fees and Finance page.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our international scholarships page.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Additional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU support bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.


Facilities

Our Global Business top-up BA (Hons) students have access to a wide range of facilities4 to help you prepare for a successful career in events management.

Take a virtual tour of our campus to explore all of the facilities available to you.

large room with tables and chairs

Enterprise Hub

Our Enterprise Hub supports student entrepreneurs by providing extensive industry knowledge and guidance to help develop ideas into viable ventures. It is a dedicated space for enterprising students and professionals to solve problems, network professionally and collaborate on projects.

recruitment session two ladies and one man

The Talent Team

Need employability support? Our dedicated Talent Team is on hand to help. It can assist you in applying for work placements, graduate level jobs and offer skills development workshops. It also organises networking events to introduce you to potential employers and industry contacts.


Careers and opportunities

This course aims to give the flexibility to help you build a career in one or more of a wide range of business functions, and to work confidently internationally. It will also aim to help you develop the entrepreneurial skills you will need to start your own business or run an innovative project within a large organisation.

On successful completion of this course, you will:

  • Be able to understand and apply core business functions and processes in the global context.
  • Develop knowledge, skills and experience necessary to manage people, physical and financial resources.
  • Evaluate and provide data in order to make informed business management decisions and manage complex strategic and management issues of global and local businesses.
  • Be equipped with investigative and analytical skills in order to examine impact of risk on global companies.
  • Develop international management competencies required to operate in multicultural environment and diverse community.
  • Be able to appraise, critically analyse and apply contemporary theories to real-world scenarios.
  • Be able to analyse specific global business situations in to identify areas of good practice and use creative solutions.

Where our graduates work

Our previous graduates have gone on to work at NatWest, Jaguar, Nestle and Amazon.

Upon successful completion of our Global Business top-up BA (Hons) course, you may wish to continue to further your studies at postgraduate level. You can do that right here at Coventry University London, with our Global Business MBA.  You could continue to build on what you have learnt, further preparing you for a successful high-flying career in business leadership and management roles within an international context.

We also offer alternative postgraduate degrees if you decide to take a slightly different route. You can explore all of your options, including other locations within the Coventry University Group, using our postgraduate course search. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

Thanks to the Coventry University London Talent Team, for my final module I was able to acquire an internship with a company in London that organised workshops, exhibitions and events to connect entrepreneurs with investors. During my 3-month internship, I met numerous investors, networked with entrepreneurs from multiple verticals, and gained first-hand experience of the corporate world. 

Kaveri Sachdev, BA Global Business top-up graduate, quoted in 2022
Headshot of Kaveri Sachdev

How to apply

  • Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS. Part-time students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

    How to apply

    For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

  • International codes:
    LONU049

    Full-time students applying to start in September 2023 should apply directly to the university. 

    How to apply

    For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2023/2024 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2024/25 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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