The Best Universities for Business in the UK

Why study Business at university?

Business is a subject that helps us understand the world of commerce and finance. It is an excellent subject choice for those passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation.

Studying Business at university will equip students with practical skills which are highly valued in various industries. Seize the opportunity to enrich your academic journey with expertise from The Profs and connect with Business Studies Tutors who can pave the way to your future success.

For undergraduate studies:

If you are undertaking Business Studies in the UK, you should graduate within three to four years from an undergraduate course.

You could leave with a Bachelors of Arts (BA) or a Bachelors of Science (BSc) degree. A BA has a focus on liberal arts studies and general business knowledge, causing it to apply to many career paths. A BSc is a more specialised degree in Business Administration.

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For postgraduate studies:

If you complete a Masters in Business, you will graduate within one or two years of study with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or with a Master of Science (MSc).

The MBA teaches students all the core elements of managing a business, including finance, marketing, strategic and operational management. The MSc is designed to give you academic and practical knowledge of both national and international business policies.

You can also embark on a journey in up to four years to earn a PhD and achieve a Doctorate in Business Administration. There are two main types of doctoral programmes in Business: academic and theoretical.

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What career can I use a Business degree for?

Business is a highly respected degree and can open up a wide range of career options. Business graduates are sought after in various industries, including finance, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship industries. Some popular career choices within the business world include:

  • Management Consultant
  • Financial Analyst
  • Marketing Executive
  • Business Development Manager
  • Investment Banker
  • Project Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Supply Chain Analyst

What are the most popular Business programmes?

Business can reference a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the UK. When you select your degree, you might be able to choose a specialised area within Business. When you begin your degree, you might be able to select modules in specific areas that interest you. Some of the most popular degree programmes at Business Universities include:

  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Business and Management Studies
  • Business Administration
  • Logistics/Supply Chain
  • Management Information Systems
  • Marketing
  • Economics
  • International Relations
  • Organisational Strategy
  • Leadership and Performance
  • Technology and Innovation
  • Human Resource Management

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What are the best universities in the UK for Business?

There are a wide range of prestigious business schools in the UK with impressive academic rankings and excellent Business faculties.

Below is a list of the best universities for business in the UK in 2023; they often perform well in university league tables and have the leading Business departments. They have outstanding reputations for research excellence, global perspective, and career outcomes. Their graduates are highly sought after by employers in business, HR, finance, marketing, PR and sales industries.

If you’re interested in studying Business at any of these universities but feel daunted by high entry standards and competitive admissions, contact our supportive admissions counsellors at The Profs.

All that said, make the right choice for you and look beyond the league tables. Choose a university suited to you, that makes you happy. Narrow down your options by considering location, societies, activities, and learning style, to ensure that you choose an institution matching your interests.

Take a look at the UK’s best business school rankings:

University of Oxford

Oxford’s Saïd Business School is highly regarded for its world-class research and teaching in Business and Management. At Oxford, many business courses are available: including undergraduate degrees in Economics and Management, as well as postgraduate degrees in Business Administration, Finance, and Social Entrepreneurship. Oxford graduates usually have high starting salaries. The university also has excellent resources for students, including access to renowned libraries and research facilities.

Business degrees at Oxford University are currently ranked (2023):

  • 1st in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 1st in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 1st in the UK by The Guardian.
  • 9th in the world by QS World University Rankings.

The entry requirements for studying Business at Oxford are typically A*AA A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted) including Maths.

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London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

LSE is a top-ranked place to study Business and Economics, with an outstanding reputation for research excellence and innovation. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Business and Management, as well as postgraduate degrees in Management, Finance, and Management Science. LSE’s location in the heart of London provides students with excellent networking opportunities and access to some of the world’s leading businesses and financial institutions.

Business degrees at LSE are currently ranked (2023):

  • 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 2nd in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 4th in the UK by The Guardian.
  • 11th in the world by QS World University Rankings.

The entry requirements for studying Business at LSE are typically AAA A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted) including Maths.

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University College London (UCL)

UCL’s School of Management is respected for its research-led teaching and interdisciplinary approach to Business and Management. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Management Science, as well as postgraduate degrees in Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation. If you’re not a UK business student, UCL might be particularly attractive as it is known to accept a high quantity of international students. UCL also has excellent resources for students, including access to world-class research facilities and mentorship from leading experts in the field.

Business degrees at UCL are currently ranked (2023):

  • 4th in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 3rd in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 5th in the UK by The Guardian.

The entry requirements for studying Business at UCL typically range from A*AA to AAA A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted) depending on the specific Business course, with at least two subjects from UCL’s list of preferred subjects.

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Cambridge University

Cambridge’s Judge Business School is highly esteemed for its innovative teaching and research in Business and Management. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Management Studies, as well as postgraduate degrees in Business Administration, Finance, and Entrepreneurship. Cambridge also has excellent resources for students, including access to advanced technology and extensive libraries.

Business degrees at Cambridge are currently ranked (2023):

  • 2nd in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 8th in the world by QS World University Rankings.

For undergraduates, Cambridge only offers a part II course. Meaning, you must begin another course at Cambridge University for two or three years before applying to take the Management Studies course (for your final undergraduate year). If you choose to pursue this degree, ensure you choose a college that allows this option.

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The University of Warwick

Based on the outskirts of Coventry, Warwick Business School is highly regarded for its research-led teaching and focus on practical business applications. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Management, as well as postgraduate degrees in Business Analytics, Marketing, and Finance. Warwick also has excellent resources for students, including access to career development services and mentorship from leading industry professionals.

Business degrees at Warwick are currently ranked (2023):

  • 5th in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 6th in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 3rd in the UK by The Guardian.
  • 22nd in the world by QS World University Rankings.

The entry requirements for studying Business at Warwick are typically A*AA A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted).

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King’s College London

King’s Business School is highly revered for its interdisciplinary approach to Business and Management, drawing on expertise from across the university’s faculties. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Business Management, as well as postgraduate degrees in Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Management. King’s also has excellent resources for students, including access to the latest research and progressive technology.

Business degrees at King’s College are currently ranked (2023):

  • 7th in the UK by Times Higher Education.
  • 5th in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 9th in the UK by The Guardian.
  • 97th in the world by QS World University Rankings.

The entry requirements for studying Business at King’s College are typically A*AA A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted) including a Humanities or Social Science subject.

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Bath University

Bath’s School of Management is respected for its research-led teaching and focus on sustainability and responsible business practices. The school offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate degrees in Management, as well as postgraduate degrees in Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Operations, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management. Bath also has excellent resources for students, including access to prestigious research facilities and mentorship from leading experts in the field.

Business degrees at Bath University are currently ranked (2023):

  • 4th in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
  • 6th in the UK by The Guardian.
  • 78th in the world by QS World University Rankings.

The entry requirements for studying Business at the University of Bath are typically AAB A levels (equivalent qualifications are also accepted) including a B in Maths.

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London Business School

London Business School is highly regarded for its global perspective on business and management, drawing on expertise from across the world. The school offers a range of postgraduate degrees in Business Administration, Finance, and Management, as well as Executive Education programs for professionals. London Business School also has excellent resources for students, including access to a vast alumni network and connections to some of the world’s leading businesses and financial institutions.

Business degrees at London Business School are currently ranked (2023):

  • 3rd in the world by QS World University Rankings.

Unfortunately, London Business School does not offer undergraduate degrees. Students would need to apply for an MBA, MSc, or PhD. Entry requirements are usually a 2:1 degree or two to five years of valid work experience, depending on the course.

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Please note: Other excellent universities for business studies in the United Kingdom include the University of Manchester, Edinburgh University, St Andrews University, Exeter University, Imperial College London, Loughborough University, Leeds University, and Glasgow University. These also place among the top league tables for Business.

How do I get into one of the top UK universities for Business?

Getting into one of the top universities for Business is competitive, but there are things you can do to improve your chances. Here are some tips:

  • Study hard and achieve high grades in relevant subjects at A level or equivalent e.g. Maths, Humanities and Social Sciences.
  • Get involved in extracurricular activities related to Business, such as taking a leadership role in a student society, shadowing a business organisation, or taking on a mentoring/tutoring role.
  • Put time and effort into your university application, tasks, and interviews.
  • Consider seeking advice from The Profs.

If you are interested in studying Business at one of the top universities in the UK, The Profs are here to help. We offer excellent Business tutors, as well as expert guidance on university applications, including personal statement writing and interview preparation. We are experienced and happy to help. After all, 95% of our clients get into their first or second choice university!

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FAQ

Is a Business degree worth it in the UK? What are the career prospects for graduates?

If you are looking for a wide range of career opportunities in industries such as finance, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship, then a Business degree is worth your time. Graduates can expect competitive salaries and the potential for career advancement.

What are the top universities in the UK for a Business degree?

Some of the top universities in the UK for a Business degree include Oxford University, London School of Economics (LSE), University College London (UCL), Cambridge University, Warwick University, King’s College London, Bath University, and London Business School. All of the universities mentioned in this article have highly respected reputations for Business courses.

What can I do with a Business degree?

With a Business degree, you can pursue a variety of career paths, including roles in finance, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Common job titles for Business graduates include financial analyst, marketing executive, management consultant, business development manager, and operations manager.

Why should I take a Business Management degree, and what are the benefits?

A Business Management degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a range of industries and job roles. It can also lead to competitive salaries, opportunities for career advancement, and the potential to start your own business. Reach your highest potential with The Profs’ University Tutors, where career-enhancing expertise and flexible learning unite to elevate your academic journey.

What is the typical duration of a Business degree in the UK, and what are the study options available?

A Business degree in the UK typically takes three to four years to complete for an undergraduate degree and one to two years for a postgraduate degree.

There are also part-time and online study options available for those who cannot undertake a full-time degree and need more flexibility. Your degree might also take longer if you need or choose to undertake foundation years.

How difficult is a Business degree in the UK?

A Business degree in the UK can be challenging, as it requires a strong understanding of business concepts, critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyse and solve complex problems. However, with hard work and dedication, it is possible to succeed in a Business degree programme.

If you’re interested in Business but feel intimidated by the entry requirements, then reach out to our team of business tutors and admissions consultants. 95% of our clients get into their first or second choice university! We are experienced and happy to help.

Are there exams in a Business degree in the UK?

Yes, there are exams in a Business degree in the UK, as well as coursework, group projects, presentations, and other assessments. The specific types and formats of assessments may vary depending on the university and programme.

What are the benefits of pursuing a Master’s in Business Management in the UK, and what are some top programmes to consider?

A Master’s in Business Management in the UK can provide you with advanced skills and knowledge in areas such as leadership, strategy, and innovation. It can also lead to higher salaries and opportunities for career advancement.

Some top programmes to consider include the Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Cambridge, the Master’s in Management at the London Business School, and the Master’s in Business Analytics at Imperial College Business School.