LCCA - London College of Contemporary Arts

Foundation Degree (FdA) Applied Business Management


Foundation Degree (FdA) Applied Business Management


Discover a welcoming and inspiring learning environment with the FdA Applied Business Management course at LCCA. Here, you’ll blend contemporary business theory with real-world experience, building your strategic thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Our dynamic programme centres on project-based learning, giving you the chance to tackle practical business challenges that reflect today’s social, economic, and environmental issues. Whether you’re aiming for a professional role or dreaming of launching your own venture, you’ll graduate feeling confident, adaptable, and ready to make a positive impact.

  • Project-Based Learning: Tackle real business scenarios both in the classroom and within organisations, focusing on current social, economic, and environmental issues.
  • Practical Application: Analyse trends, develop innovative solutions, and apply business knowledge in meaningful ways.
  • Personalised Support: Begin your journey with a two-week “My Toolkit for Success” programme, offering one-to-one support and tailored academic skills development.
  • Continuous Development: Dedicated academic skills learning is embedded throughout both years, ensuring you build confidence and capability as you progress
  • Technologically Relevant: Gain experience with digital tools, platforms, and innovation strategies.
  • Employment-Focused: Develop the skills, behaviours, and mindset sought by contemporary employers.

     

    Note:

    This programme is currently undergoing the formal validation process by the University for the Creative Arts (UCA). “Subject to validation” means that while the course has been proposed and is in development, it has not yet received final academic approval. We are working closely with UCA to complete this process, and we anticipate a successful outcome.

    Prospective students can apply and be considered for a place on the programme. However, enrolment and delivery of the course will only proceed once validation is confirmed. In the unlikely event that the programme is not validated, applicants will be informed promptly and offered suitable alternatives or a full refund of any fees paid.

    ** Applicants should plan for the following costs: broadband access, a suitable electronic device for independent learning, and any expenses related to field trips or visits. All trips will be communicated well in advance to avoid unexpected or short-notice costs.

KEY INFORMATION
Campus

London, Birmingham

Intakes

October, January, May

Duration

Two years, with the option for students to either enter employment upon completion or progress to a top-up programme.

Study mode

Full-time | Blended Learning

Awarding body

University for the Creative Arts

Tuition fees

UK/EU citizens - £9,535 per annum

Funding

SFE funding available

International / EU Applicants

If you are arriving after the UK has left the EU on January 1st 2021, you will require a visa to study in the UK, in which LCCA will not be able to sponsor you. To find out more information please visit https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families/applying-for-settled-status 

UCAS INFORMATION
Apply through UCAS

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION THROUGH UCAS

APPLY DIRECT
Apply directly to LCCA

Apply now through our application portal

Download Prospectus

Download Prospectus

Foundation Degree (FdA) Applied Business Management


Before formal teaching begins, you will take part in ‘My Toolkit for Success’, a two-week orientation programme designed to refresh your academic skills, provide personalised support through Student Success Tutors, and prepare you for university-level study. 

Throughout Year 1 and Year 2, you will benefit from structured support and skills development to help you succeed academically and professionally.

Year 1 (Level 4): Building Foundations

Core Modules:

  • Contemporary Business Environment (30 credits): Introduction to core business principles, organisational structures, and the contextual factors influencing business today.

  • Marketing in the Digital Age (30 credits): Explore fundamental marketing concepts, digital strategies, and practical case studies.

  • Digital Transformation and Business Innovation (30 credits): Learn how digital tools drive innovation, develop start-up ideas, and use platforms like e-commerce and generative AI.

  • Academic Skills for Success (30 credits): Develop research, academic writing, digital literacy, and employability skills through reflective and practical tasks.

In your second year, you will engage with a one-week Successful Transitions Toolkit, a focused programme that supports your progression to Level 5 and helps consolidate your learning from Year 1. 

Year 2 (Level 5): Advanced Application

Core Modules:

  • Leading and Managing Real-World Businesses (30 credits): Applied study of leadership, motivation, team dynamics, and organisational culture.
  • Agility and Operational Excellence (30 credits): Master lean and agile business operations, using tools like Kanban, Scrum, and value stream mapping.

  • Creative Business Project (30 credits): Undertake a project that nurtures creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking.

Data-Driven Decision Making (30 credits): Use digital and data tools to inform business decisions and analyse performance.


Upon successful completion of the FdA Applied Business Management course, you can choose to progress to a one-year BA (Hons) top-up degree or move directly into the workforce. Career paths include roles in marketing, operations, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, project management, and more.

Blended Delivery

A combination of on-campus learning and self-paced online study, designed to fit around your lifestyle.

Face-to-Face Learning (15%)

  • Attend one full day or two evenings per week
  • Take part in lectures, seminars, workshops, and business simulations
  • Participate in industry visits and guest lectures
  • You will have access to a range of support services including drop-in consultation sessions during office hours, one-to-one mentoring, and Careers & Employability workshops and drop-ins, all designed to enhance your academic success and professional development.

Asynchronous Learning (25%)

  • Self-paced online activities, E-learning courses, educational videos, interactive discussion forums and quizzes
  • Supported by tutors with regular check-ins

Complementing your on-campus learning, you will complete a series of self-paced online activities each week. These include recorded lessons, educational videos, relevant readings, interactive discussion forums, and quizzes. Your engagement is monitored through these various touchpoints as well as in-class check-ins to support your progress. 

Independent Learning (60%)

  • Research, reading, and project work
  • Encourages critical thinking and self-direction

Overall Methods of Assessment

Written Exams:

Practical Exams:

Coursework:

Level 4

0%

0%

100%

Level 5

0%

0%

100%

 

 

Assessment is varied and inclusive, including:

  • Portfolios & Reports
  • Individual Project output
  • Group Enterprise Proposals
  • Presentations & Reflective Journals
  • Case Study Projects & Pitches

Ongoing formative feedback and clear expectations support your continuous development.

Graduates of the FdA Applied Business Management programme are well-prepared for a range of entry-level roles across business, management, and the creative industries. The course’s strong emphasis on applied learning, digital literacy, and project-based skills means you will be equipped to take on positions such as:

  • Business Analyst
  • Marketing Assistant
  • Project Coordinator
  • Operations Support
  • Entrepreneur or Small Business Owner

You will also develop the adaptability, communication, and critical thinking skills valued by employers in both commercial and non-profit sectors.

 

The programme’s focus on professional behaviours, teamwork, and digital tools ensures you are ready to enter the workforce or progress to a Level 6 Top-Up BA (Hons) degree, further enhancing your career prospects.

Why Study a Foundation Degree (FdA) Applied Business Management At LCCA


Creative and Applied Approach: Blend creative thinking with practical business skills.

Specialist Facilities: Access industry-standard resources and guided learning.

Supportive Environment: Personalised academic and career support throughout your studies.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Stay ahead with modules designed to meet current business trends and employer needs.

Taught by LCCA’s experienced business faculty, the course features:

  • Academic staff with industry, research and teaching expertise
  • Associate lecturers with real-world experience in:
    • Business management
    • Events and entertainment
    • Marketing and entrepreneurship

This mix ensures theory meets practice in every aspect of your learning.

As an LCCA student, you’ll have access to:

  • Specialist studios and learning spaces
  • Academic and pastoral support
  • Industry-standard equipment

Career services and alumni connections

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


Academic Requirements:

Standard Route

  • 48 UCAS points, or
  • A Levels: DD, or
  • BTEC Level 3, or
  • NVQ Level 3, or
  • Access to HE, or
  • B2 English level, or
  • Accepted T Levels: 48 UCAS points

 

In addition to the above applicants will be required to have three GCSE passes at grade C or above (including Maths and English) or Equivalent qualifications at Level 2 with English and Maths.

Non-Standard Entry

For applicants who do not meet standard academic entry criteria, a flexible entry policy will allow for:

No formal qualifications are required, but applicants must have 2 years of relevant work experience and English proficiency to be able to demonstrate understanding of business analysis, effective time management and working with others.

For any non-standard entry, an interview will be required to assess an applicant's ability to meet the Level 3 qualification criteria/ benchmark.

Assessment via:

A Personal Statement explaining motivation and experience and an interview to assess readiness for study.

A written task to evaluate academic ability (if necessary).

Other relevant and equivalent level 3 UK and international qualifications are considered on an individual basis, and we encourage students from diverse educational backgrounds apply.

English Language Proficiency ·

GCSE English at grade C/4 or equivalent · Functional Skills English Level 2. ·

Duolingo English Test (DET) 85 minimum preferably no minimum per component

*To see the accepted QCF qualifications, visit: http://uca.ac.uk/study/accepted-qualifications/

 

  • Complete an online application form.
  • Submit evidence of qualifications and a personal statement.
  • Attend an interview if required.

Offers are made based on academic background, experience, and commitment to study.

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