International Year One in Business and Management
Your route to Year 2 of a leading Business and Management degree
Business and Management sits at the heart of how modern organisations succeed, adapt and create value in an ever‑changing world. From marketing and entrepreneurship to leadership and organisational behaviour, this discipline opens doors to diverse and fast‑growing career opportunities across industries worldwide.
As a direct route into the second year of an undergraduate degree, the International Year One in Business and Management* provides the same academic content as Durham’s first‑year Business School programme, with additional teaching time and smaller classes. This supportive structure ensures you begin Year 2 with stronger knowledge, skills and confidence. Students also follow one of two Academic skills routes based on their English level on entry. This ensures that they receive the right level of challenge and support, enabling them to develop the academic skills needed for degree study in a more supportive learning environment.
Durham University is a world top 100 institution and home to one of the UK’s leading Business Schools, recognised globally for academic excellence, cutting‑edge research and exceptional graduate prospects. As an International Year One student, you will learn in an environment designed specifically for international students — with guaranteed progression to Year 2 upon successful completion of your programme.
* This programme is subject to approval
Why study Business and Management at Durham?
World‑class, triple‑accredited Business School
Durham University Business School holds prestigious AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS accreditation, placing it among the world’s elite business schools and recognised globally for the quality of its teaching and research.
International learning environment
Students join a diverse, global community supported by world‑class academics with industry insight and real‑world expertise.
Outstanding employability outcomes
Durham graduates are highly sought after by leading global companies. Students benefit from placement opportunities, career development programmes, employer events, and entrepreneurship support — including access to the Hazan Venture Lab.
A supportive collegiate community
Durham’s unique collegiate system fosters a welcoming and close‑knit community, helping international students settle quickly and thrive academically and socially.
A historic and inspiring location
Located in a UNESCO World Heritage city, Durham offers a rich cultural, social and academic experience with an exceptional student lifestyle.
Academic:
Business: Maths/numerate subject required at school completion with pass (at country requirements). Maths/numerate subject accepted within 2-years of Final High-School Year (YR12), at YR11 or YR10. Not required in further year unless otherwise specified.
Computer Science IY1: Maths grade B equivalent from the final year of high school. Not required in further year.
English language: Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.5 (with minimum 5.5 in writing, with no skill lower than 5.0) or equivalent
Age: 17+
Visit our entry requirements page for further details.
Fees
You can check the associated fees with your chosen programme by visiting our dedicated fees page.
What you will study
To help you succeed in your studies, you will study one of two Academic Skills routes based on your IELTS English level when you join the programme, so you receive the right level of challenge and support.
Academic English Skills: For students with IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills)
This route is for students who are building confidence in academic English and are new to studying at university in English. The module focuses on building core academic English skills and understanding how university study works. You will develop confidence, independence and strong study habits, helping you prepare fully for Year 2.
Applied Critical Skills for University: For students with IELTS 6.5+ (no skill below 6.0)
This route is for confident students with strong English who are ready for degree level study. You may have studied in English before or already feel comfortable reading and writing academic texts.
This module focuses on using English to perform well at university. You will work with academic texts, develop critical reading skills and produce high quality academic writing. This prepares you to progress into Year 2 with confidence and strong academic skills.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of key management theories and learn how to apply them in contemporary business environments. You will explore decision‑making, organisational structures, performance management and global management challenges while developing your ability to use evidence‑based approaches in real‑world scenarios.
Develop a strong understanding of the external and internal factors that shape business strategy. This module also introduces entrepreneurial thinking, equipping you with the mindset and skills needed to identify opportunities and create value in dynamic business environments.
Study how individuals and groups behave within organisations. Explore motivation, leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture while learning how these concepts impact performance and workplace effectiveness.
Build core knowledge of marketing strategy and practice. You will explore consumer behaviour, segmentation, targeting and positioning, the marketing mix and integrated communications — with attention to ethical and sustainable marketing approaches.
Develop foundational skills in both financial and management accounting. Learn how accounting supports decision‑making, performance evaluation and strategic planning, and build the analytical skills needed to interpret financial information.
Explore key leadership theories and practices, including transformational and transactional leadership. You will examine the influence of personality, culture, power and context, while discussing contemporary issues such as diversity, ethics, leadership failure and succession.
