What is a business management course?

Business management courses are designed to help students learn the skills they need to oversee a business. These courses typically cover subjects such as finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and strategic management. 

For most, the end goal is to prepare for leadership roles. In fact, business management is one of the most popular fields of study in the UK, with thousands of students enrolling each year! 

So, why are these qualifications in such high demand? The broad applicability of business management courses makes them a tempting choice for students of all ages and experiences. 

What are business management skills?

While completing a business management qualification, you’ll develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Many of these abilities go hand-in-hand and can be used in the workforce. 

Strategic thinking 

During a business management course, students learn how to analyse market trends, evaluate competitive landscapes, and develop strategies that can help organisations achieve their long-term goals. 

Leadership and team management

Some modules will focus on building the skills necessary to lead teams. These include communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution, all of which are vital for roles in human resources and executive leadership. 

Financial acumen

Business management isn’t all about leading people; it can also involve handling a business's financial responsibilities. That’s why some qualifications cover the fundamentals of accounting, finance, and budgeting. 

What are the different types of business management courses? 

Students can complete business management degrees (BA, MA, MBA), diplomas, and certificates. 

Which you choose will depend on your previous level of study and employment history (for example, universities recommend MBA applicants have at least 3 years of practical business experience). 

These courses are typically completed in-person or using a hybrid learning approach. However, if you’re more interested in an at-home business management qualification, Distance Learning Centre has some excellent offerings: 

1. Business Management - QLS Level 2 Course

The Business Management - QLS Level 2 Course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of management principles, suitable for those managing small organisations or departments. 

The course aims to teach effective resource management, legal aspects of employment, and staff development. 

 It covers essential topics such as: 

  • Performance management
  • Stress and crisis management
  • Equal opportunities legislation 

Students are assessed through tutor-marked assignments to make sure the material has been understood and could be applied effectively. 

2. Management Studies - QLS Level 3 Course

Students of the Management Studies - QLS Level 3 Course will come away with a solid foundation in management principles, focused on practical skills such as project management, delegation, and performance management. 

The course aims to develop students' understanding of: 

  • Managerial roles and responsibilities
  • Effective staff management
  • Time, stress, and crisis management

Assessment is based on tutor-marked assignments, where students must demonstrate their understanding through written work. 

3. Operations Management - QLS Level 3 Course 

The Operations Management - QLS Level 3 Course equips students with a comprehensive understanding of operations management principles, focusing on key areas such as process design, capacity planning, and supply chain management. 

The course aims to improve students' abilities to manage operational processes within various types of organisations. Modules include topics like 

  • Lean Operations
  • Inventory Management
  • Strategic Management

Assessment is carried out through tutor-marked assignments. 

4. Team Leading - QLS Level 2 Course 

If you complete the Team Leading - QLS Level 2 Course, you’ll develop the essential skills and knowledge required to lead a team effectively. The course focuses on: 

  • Developing leadership abilities
  • Understanding team dynamics
  • Enhancing communication and motivation techniques

Students are assessed through tutor-marked assignments, which evaluate their understanding and application of team-leading principles. Key modules include: 

  • Introduction to Team Leading 
  • Developing Team Performance
  • Handling Conflict within Teams 

What can I do with a business management qualification? 

Holding a business management qualification can open many doors. For some jobs that are directly related to your certificate and others where it can be useful, have a look at the following roles: 

1. Account manager 

An account manager involves managing client relationships and making sure their needs are met.

A business management qualification provides the skills needed to understand business processes, manage accounts effectively, and communicate with clients to maintain and grow these relationships. 

2. Business adviser

As a business adviser, you'll offer expert advice to help businesses improve their performance. 

A background in business management equips you with the necessary strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to provide guidance to businesses at different stages of their development. 

3. Management consultant

A management consultant often helps organisations with complex business issues. A business management qualification is particularly valuable here, as it provides a deep understanding of organisational dynamics and strategic management,

4. Business analyst

In this role, you analyse business data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. A business management qualification offers the analytical skills and business acumen needed to interpret data

5. Marketing executive

Marketing executives are responsible for promoting products, services and understanding market trends. With a business management qualification, you could cover essential topics like marketing strategy and consumer behaviour.

Start your business management course with Distance Learning Centre! 

Our business and training courses are all about personal development. With our wide range of QLS courses, available at Levels 2, 3 and 4, you can get to grips with the principles and practices of leading. 

If you want to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can email us at info@distance-learning-centre.co.uk, call 0191 512 0481 (our non-UK number is 0044 191 512 0481) or you can fill out our quick online form.