Management BA/BSc

Management degrees are designed to prepare students for leadership and decision-making roles in business, government and the non-profit sector. The course explores how organisations are structured, how they operate and how to make them more effective. It combines theory with practical application, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to manage people, resources and change in a competitive global environment.

BA or BSc?

A BSc (Bachelor of Science) in Management typically has a stronger focus on analytical, quantitative, and scientific aspects of business, such as economics, statistics, and accounting. A BA (Bachelor of Arts) in Management, while less common, would likely incorporate more humanities-based subjects like psychology or sociology, focusing more on the creative and human elements of management.

Course Structure

A Management degree is usually studied over three years full time, with many universities offering a four-year option that includes a placement year or study abroad. The course is typically delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and case studies, with assessment based on essays, exams, projects and presentations. In later years, you’ll often have the chance to specialise in areas such as human resources, operations, finance or international management.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary across universities, but useful subjects include:

• A levels: Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics, Sociology or Psychology. English can also be helpful for essay-based work.

  
  

• BTECs: Business or Enterprise are highly relevant and widely accepted, especially with high grades.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Business Management, Economics or Mathematics at Higher Level are often preferred.

  
  

• A strong grounding in analytical and communication-focused subjects is helpful preparation.

  
  

What Makes a Strong Application

Management courses look for applicants who show leadership potential and intellectual curiosity. A strong application includes:

• Good academic results in relevant subjects.

  
  

• Work experience or extracurricular activities, such as part-time jobs, leading school projects, or involvement in student councils or clubs.

  
  

• A personal statement demonstrating interest in how organisations work, problem-solving ability and ambition for leadership roles.

  
  

• Interview performance at some universities, where applicants may be asked to discuss case studies or current business issues.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Management degree helps you develop a broad set of transferable skills that are valued across industries, including:

• Leadership and teamwork: Coordinating people and projects effectively.

  
  

• Analytical thinking: Understanding complex business problems and identifying solutions.

  
  

• Communication: Presenting ideas clearly, both in writing and verbally.

  
  

• Problem-solving and decision-making: Making informed choices under pressure.

  
  

• Numeracy and data analysis: Using financial and statistical information to guide decisions.

  
  

• Adaptability and organisation: Balancing multiple responsibilities in fast-changing environments.

These skills are highly employable in business, public sector and non-profit roles.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Management Students

Reading beyond your studies can demonstrate curiosity and strengthen your understanding of management. Here are four accessible and influential books:

“The One Minute Manager” by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

A short, engaging guide to effective leadership and people management.

“Good to Great” by Jim Collins

Explores why some companies outperform others and what makes leadership truly effective.

“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries

A practical look at innovation, entrepreneurship and modern management practices.

“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman

Not strictly a management book, but a fascinating exploration of decision-making and human behaviour, essential knowledge for future managers.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Graduates of Management degrees typically enter graduate schemes or junior management roles, with starting salaries ranging from £25,000 to £32,000. With experience, salaries can rise to £40,000–£60,000 in middle management. Senior managers and directors can earn £70,000 to well over £100,000 depending on the sector and size of organisation, company, or lead in the public or non-profit sector, a Management degree provides a solid foundation for success in the modern economy.