BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship)

The BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and supportive learning environment specifically geared towards fostering entrepreneurial talent. It is structured to progressively build foundational business knowledge in the first year, introduce core entrepreneurial concepts and skills in the second, and culminate in the development and potential launch of a business venture in the final year. Students benefit from interactive lectures, engaging workshops focused on entrepreneurial tools and techniques, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and opportunities for collaborative team-based projects. A key element involves hands-on experience in developing business plans, pitching ideas, and understanding the challenges and rewards of starting and growing a business. The program fosters a creative, risk-taking, and action-oriented atmosphere, encouraging students to develop their entrepreneurial drive and vision.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals alongside specialized entrepreneurial knowledge. Core business modules typically cover areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and strategy. Entrepreneurship-focused modules delve into topics such as opportunity identification and evaluation, creativity and innovation, business model generation, entrepreneurial finance, digital entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, and small business management. The program emphasizes the development of practical entrepreneurial skills, including business planning, market research, financial forecasting, pitching and presentation skills, and leadership. Students will engage in business simulations, case study analysis of successful and unsuccessful startups, and the development of their own business ideas, culminating in a final year project that often involves creating a comprehensive business plan and potentially launching a pilot venture.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the School of Business and Management, with faculty actively engaged in research related to entrepreneurship, innovation, small business development, and family business. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current entrepreneurial trends, academic insights into startup success and failure, and innovative business models. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests within entrepreneurship through assignments and their final year business plan, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to understanding the entrepreneurial landscape.

Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program places a strong emphasis on connecting students with the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The program actively fosters relationships with local and national entrepreneurs, startup incubators, venture capitalists, and small business support organizations. Students may benefit from guest lectures by successful founders, workshops on specific entrepreneurial skills led by industry experts, mentorship programs pairing students with experienced entrepreneurs, and networking events within the startup community. Opportunities for internships or placements within startups and small businesses may also be available. The curriculum often incorporates real-world case studies and projects that involve direct engagement with existing businesses or the development of solutions for identified market needs.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by examining international entrepreneurial ecosystems, the challenges and opportunities of launching businesses in different cultural and economic contexts, and the strategies for scaling ventures internationally. The curriculum may include case studies of successful global startups, discussions on international trade and investment for new ventures, and the exploration of different cultural attitudes towards entrepreneurship. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as international market entry strategies and the management of global entrepreneurial teams, preparing graduates to operate effectively in the interconnected global marketplace for new ventures.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
• DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses. 

International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.

Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.

External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.

Graduates from the dynamic and forward-thinking BA (Hons) Business and Management (Entrepreneurship) program at Bath Spa University develop a highly adaptable and action-oriented skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers, primarily focused on creating and leading new ventures, but also valuable within established organizations seeking entrepreneurial talent. The program's emphasis on innovation, business creation, and strategic thinking equips graduates to confidently navigate the startup landscape and drive growth. 

Startup Founder/Co-Founder: Launching and leading their own new business ventures, developing innovative products or services and managing all aspects of the startup process.

Intrapreneur/Innovation Manager: Working within established organizations to develop and implement new products, services, or business models, fostering an entrepreneurial culture.

Business Development Manager (Startups/SMEs): Identifying and pursuing new growth opportunities for early-stage or small to medium-sized enterprises.

Venture Capital Analyst: Working for venture capital firms, evaluating potential investment opportunities in startups and supporting portfolio companies.

Business Consultant (Entrepreneurship Focus): Providing expert advice and guidance to startups and small businesses on strategy, funding, and growth.

Incubator/Accelerator Manager: Working within startup incubators or accelerators, supporting and mentoring early-stage ventures.

Digital Entrepreneur: Creating and managing online businesses, leveraging e-commerce, social media, and digital marketing strategies.

Social Entrepreneur: Founding and leading ventures with a social mission, addressing societal or environmental challenges through business models.

Small Business Manager: Taking on leadership roles within existing small businesses, implementing growth strategies and improving operational efficiency.

Freelance Consultant (Specializing in Startup Support): Offering specialized services to startups and entrepreneurs, such as business planning, marketing strategy, or fundraising support.