Business Education

The Business Education program at University College London is a comprehensive and innovative course designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies required for success in the dynamic world of business. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating theories and practices from management, economics, marketing, finance, and organizational behavior to provide a well-rounded understanding of contemporary business environments. Students will explore core concepts such as strategic management, leadership, entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, and digital transformation, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and creativity. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical decision-making, fostering responsible future leaders who can adapt to rapid technological advancements and global market fluctuations. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, group projects, and interactive workshops, students will engage with industry professionals and gain practical insights into current business trends. The program also offers opportunities for internships, networking events, and collaborative research, enabling students to build valuable connections and gain practical experience. Graduates of the Business Education program will be well-positioned to pursue careers in management, consultancy, entrepreneurship, or further academic research. With access to UCL’s extensive resources and vibrant academic community, students will develop a global perspective and innovative mindset vital for thriving in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether aiming to start their own business or advance within established organizations, students will leave the program equipped with the strategic foresight and leadership capabilities needed to excel and make meaningful contributions to the business sector worldwide.

Students will understand how business is taught in schools, how pupils learn and make sense of the evolving nature of business. This is reflected in the range of business related courses that are now offered by schools, sixth forms and colleges, with the focus in some instances on entrepreneurship, work skills and new business technologies. 
Students will be joining the largest Business PGCE programme in the country, allowing them to benefit from a team of tutors with a wide range of expertise of business, both inside and outside of the classroom. Students will also be able to develop strong peer networks, share ideas, resources and advice amongst your cohort of fellow students.

Students undertake two level 7 (Master’s-level) modules of 30 credits each, totaling 60 credits. These can be carried forward onto full Master’s programmes at the IOE.

The Secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master’s-level (level 7) modules, which are assessed through written assignments, and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in placement schools.

Completion of the Professional Practice module and the two level 7 (Master’s level) modules (60 credits) will result in the award of a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE). Completion of the Professional Practice module and one or two level 6 (undergraduate/Bachelor’s level) modules, will lead to the Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PgCE).

Core modules

• Learning and Teaching in Business Education (30 Master's-level credits)
• Teaching Business Education in a Wider Educational Context (30 Master's-level credits)
• Professional Practice

Placement

You will spend most of your time (120 days) in schools, working with business studies mentors who support you through your two school placements. We are fortunate to have a good choice of schools with whom we work, with many outstanding mentors and strong business studies departments. The Professional Practice module is assessed through these placements, associated tasks and a portfolio.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered via keynote lectures, subject lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the IOE, as well as time spent in placements. Assessment is by practical teaching, assignments and portfolio tasks. 
Students also record their progress in an assessment record file (ARF). This will form part of an ongoing portfolio charting the student's continuing professional development.

First degree

Normally a minimum of a lower second-class UK Bachelor’s degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a Business-related subject.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C.

School experience

Prospective students must complete a minimum of five days of school experience before they can be enrolled on the Secondary PGCE. This may involve observations, work experience (e.g. as a teaching assistant or cover supervisor), or voluntary work at Key Stage 3. Applicants must have a minimum of one day's school experience before interview; some subjects will be looking for significantly more than this. Applicants must ensure that their school experience is relevant in helping them to prepare for the Secondary PGCE, during which Student Teachers are placed in a wide range of schools across London and the South East.

DBS and Occupational Health

If you are made an offer you will be required to successfully complete Occupational Health and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure checks. The total cost of these checks is £125. These checks are required to ensure you meet the Department for Education’s requirements for physical and mental health to teach, as well as assessing your suitability for access to children and vulnerable adults.

Skills tests

All applicants must successfully complete professional skills tests in literacy and numeracy before they can enrol.

The financing of the Business Education program at University College London is structured to provide comprehensive support and accessible funding options for students. UCL offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages to help offset tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships are often merit-based, awarded to outstanding applicants demonstrating academic excellence and leadership qualities, while bursaries are sometimes need-based, aiming to assist students from less privileged backgrounds. The university also participates in national loan schemes, enabling eligible students to borrow money for their studies with manageable repayment terms post-graduation. International students may have access to specific scholarships designed to promote diversity and global engagement within the program. Additionally, UCL provides financial guidance services to assist students in planning their budgets throughout their studies. The tuition fees for the Business Education program are reviewed annually; the university aims to keep increases in line with inflation and government policies. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as industry sponsorships, private scholarships, and government grants available in their home countries. The institution emphasizes transparent communication regarding the total cost of attendance, including tuition, accommodation, and study materials, to help students plan their finances accordingly. Payment options are flexible, with installments available to make managing fees more feasible. The university actively supports part-time work opportunities on campus and in the local area to enable students to supplement their income during their studies. UCL’s dedicated financial aid office provides personalized support and advisement for students navigating their financing options, ensuring they have access to every available resource. Overall, the financing of this program aims to promote equal access to high-quality education and to minimize financial barriers for prospective students seeking to pursue their aspirations in Business Education at UCL.

The Business Education program at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop advanced knowledge and skills in the field of business and management. The program is tailored for students who aspire to excel in diverse business environments, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications. Students enrolled in this program benefit from UCL’s strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and innovative teaching methods, including case studies, group projects, and real-world business simulations. The curriculum covers core areas such as strategic management, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, and entrepreneurship, ensuring a well-rounded business education. Additionally, students have opportunities to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, internships, and networking events, facilitating practical understanding and professional development.

The program structure typically includes a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, with assessments designed to test critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical problem-solving abilities. UCL’s location in London provides unparalleled access to a dynamic business hub, allowing students to participate in internships, visit multinational corporations, and attend business conferences. The program also emphasizes global perspectives, encouraging students to consider international market trends and cross-cultural management practices, preparing them for careers worldwide. UCL’s faculty comprises leading academics and industry practitioners who bring real-world insights into the classroom, fostering an engaging learning environment. Graduates from the Business Education program often pursue careers in consulting, finance, marketing, or start their own enterprises, benefitting from UCL’s extensive alumni network and strong industry connections. Overall, the program aims to produce reflective, innovative, and ethical business leaders equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy.