Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Business Analytics
Overview
The Business Analytics program is designed to develop a range of technical and communication skills, enabling students to successfully fulfill the role of a Business Analyst. The program is mapped to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Occupational Standard for Business Analysts, meaning it develops in students the skills, knowledge, and behaviors demanded by employers in this sector.
Introduction
Business Analysts play an important role in many organizations, working with stakeholders to improve business processes and to successfully plan and deliver business change projects. By studying this program, students will develop a range of both technical and communication skills which will enable them to successfully fulfill the role of a Business Analyst.
What is a 'DipHE'?
A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) at Level 5 is awarded after two years of full-time study at university. Our DipHE programs are hands-on and practical, with flexible learning options available so students can choose to study full or part-time.
This is for you if...
- You enjoy working with people to solve problems and present solutions
- You have an enquiring mind and are keen to know the reasons behind business issues
- You want to develop the skills to use common software to analyze and present data
Course Accreditations
The program has been successfully approved for a HTQ higher quality mark. The HTQ quality mark means the course is an approved Higher Technical Qualification, a level 4 or 5 qualification quality marked by IfATE to indicate their alignment to employer-led occupational standards.
Course Details
All about the course
At level 4, the modules are designed to support effective transition to higher education, embed important academic and professional skills, and to lay the foundations of the technical knowledge required to succeed as a Business Analyst. There will be two 30-credit modules which introduce students to the crucial fundamental topics, providing an effective grounding in the role and purpose of business analysts within the wider business environment, alongside the important digital and analytical skills required. In addition, there will be one 60-credit module which will enable students to practice and apply the knowledge and skills developed in the other modules.
Level 5 will build on the skills, knowledge, and behaviors developed at level 4 and introduce students to more strategic approaches to managing business change, project management, and more advanced skills in data analysis and visualization. This will be done through two 30-credit modules, with a larger 60-credit live business analysis project enabling students to demonstrate the full range of knowledge, skills, and behaviors required of business analysts.
Level 4
- Business and Professional Skills
- Fundamentals of Data Analysis
- The Professional Business Analyst
Level 5
- Managing Projects and Business Change
- Data Analytics and Visualisation
- Business Analysis Live Project
What Will I Be Doing?
The program is designed to be highly practical in nature, with employer input throughout, including guest lectures, live and simulated briefs, and employer visits.
Teaching will be in small groups and will consist primarily of seminars and workshops, where students will work collaboratively with others to develop their knowledge and skills. Learning styles will include projects, business reports, portfolios, presentations, and discussions.
GMIOT PARTNER
Located across England, Institutes of Technology (IoTs) are a national network of partnerships between local colleges, universities, and leading employers.
We are a proud partner in the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology. This means as a student on this course, you will benefit from being part of the University of Salford community, with access to our facilities and support, and taught by our tutors. You will also be part of the GMIoT network, with access to additional events and activities.
A GLOBAL COMMUNITY
Salford Business School aims to foster the next generation of leaders and create a new vision of innovative and entrepreneurial leadership. We are integrated into the local business community as a hub for knowledge creation and exchange. We are proud that our industry collaborations and partnerships benefit students, businesses, and the community.
Our goal is to prepare you for a fulfilling life and professional career. Along the way, you’ll learn to be curious, adaptable, and confident, ready to meet the digital, ethical, and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
Employment and Stats
What about after uni?
FURTHER STUDY
Upon completion of this program, you may wish to continue your studies to level 6 to achieve a full Honours degree. The program will position you well to continue your studies in areas such as business information technology, project management, or general business management.
EMPLOYMENT
Upon completion of this program, you will have developed the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required by major employers in the field of Business Analysis. You will be confident to apply for a variety of roles in this sector, in both large and smaller organizations.
A taste of what you could become
- Business Analyst
- Business Improvement Specialist
- Project Manager
- And more...
Career Links
The program has been designed in collaboration with major regional employers and is aligned to the national Occupational Standard for Business Analysts, published by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. This means the program will enable you to develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that are demanded by employers and will position you to take advantage of the many career opportunities in the discipline.
Requirements
APPLICANT PROFILE
This program is ideal for anyone looking to develop their skills of data analysis whilst also developing the ability to make data meaningful, present solutions, and work collaboratively with other people. You may already be in employment, and looking to retrain or upskill, or you may be in education and looking to take your next step towards a rewarding career. The program has been designed to ensure flexibility and enable you to complete the program and progress on to employment or further study in the shortest time possible.
Standard entry requirements
- UCAS Tariff Points: 72 UCAS Tariff Points
How much?
- Type of study | Year | Fees
- Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,535 per year
- Full-time home | 2026/27 | £9,535 per year
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding, and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
In a nutshell:
The DipHE Business Analytics program at the University of Salford prepares students for the role of a Business Analyst. Through a combination of technical and communication skills development, graduates will be equipped to work with stakeholders, improve business processes, and successfully deliver business change projects. The program is designed in collaboration with major employers and incorporates simulated and live projects to further enhance skills, knowledge, and experience.
Objectives:
- Develop a range of technical and communication skills essential for success as a Business Analyst.
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the role and purpose of Business Analysts within the business environment.
- Acquire expertise in common software used for business analysis and data presentation.
- Apply knowledge and skills to real-world problems through practical projects.
- Develop academic and professional skills necessary for success in the field.
Program Description:
The DipHE Business Analytics program is a two-year, full-time or part-time program designed for individuals seeking a university experience without committing to a full undergraduate degree. The program is ideal for those interested in data analysis, problem-solving, and working collaboratively with others.
Outline:
Level 4:
- Business and Professional Skills: Introduces the role of the Business Analyst, their functions, and key tasks.
- Fundamentals of Data Analysis: Focuses on key software used in business analysis, data analysis techniques, and data presentation.
- The Professional Business Analyst: Applies knowledge from other modules to real-world challenges and develops project management skills.
Level 5:
- Managing Projects and Business Change: Provides key approaches to project management and change management within a business.
- Data Analytics and Visualisation: Extends data analysis techniques and advances skills in data presentation and visualization.
- Business Analysis Live Project: Culminates in a live project with an employer, requiring students to apply all their learning to analyze and present solutions.
Structure:
- The program balances academic and practical elements, with emphasis on seminars, workshops, and collaborative learning.
- Learning styles include projects, business reports, portfolios, presentations, and discussions.
- Employer input is integrated throughout the program through guest lectures, live briefs, and visits.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods include projects, presentations, reports, portfolios, and discussions.
- Assessments are designed to be authentic and reflect real-world business scenarios.
- Emphasis is placed on demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required of Business Analysts.
Teaching:
- Teaching occurs in small groups through seminars and workshops.
- Faculty members are experienced professionals with expertise in Business Analysis.
- The program utilizes a practical and collaborative approach to learning.
Careers:
- Graduates are well-positioned for various roles in Business Analysis, including:
- Business Analyst
- Business Improvement Specialist
- Project Manager
- Data Analyst
- Business Consultant
- The program aligns with the national Occupational Standard for Business Analysts, ensuring graduates have the skills and knowledge sought by employers.
Other:
- The program is part of the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT), offering students access to additional events and activities.
- The program aims to prepare graduates for a fulfilling life and professional career by fostering curiosity, adaptability, and confidence.
- The program integrates students into the local business community, providing opportunities for knowledge creation and exchange.
- Full-time home: £8,500.00 per year
- Part-time: Costs will be calculated on a pro rata basis
- Full-time home: £9,250.00 per year
- Full-time international: £15,720.00 per year
University of Salford: A Summary
Overview:
The University of Salford is a public university located in Salford, Greater Manchester, England. It is known for its strong focus on practical learning and its close ties to industry. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university provides a vibrant campus experience with a range of facilities and activities for students. These include:
Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including on-campus residences and private apartments.Sports Centre:
Students can stay active and healthy by joining the university's sports centre, which offers a wide range of activities.Clubs and Societies:
Students can join a variety of clubs and societies to meet new people and pursue their interests.Library:
The university library provides students with access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Cafe and Dining:
The campus has several cafes and dining options for students to enjoy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating hands-on experience and industry placements.Industry Connections:
The university has strong ties to industry, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Location:
The university is located in Salford, a vibrant city with easy access to Manchester city centre.Modern Facilities:
The university has invested in modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art sports centre and a new library.Other:
The university offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. It also has a strong commitment to research, with a focus on areas such as energy, healthcare, and technology.
Entry Requirements:
GCE A Level:
72 UCAS Tariff Points, consisting of at least two A Levels in any subject and a minimum of a grade C in English Language and Mathematics (or equivalent).
BTEC National Diploma:
Pass with Merit in a relevant subject area, such as Business Studies, Information Technology, or Computing.
BTEC Extended Diploma:
Pass with Merit in a relevant subject area, such as Business Studies, Information Technology, or Computing.
International Baccalaureate Diploma:
Overall score of 24 points with a minimum of 5 points in English Language and Mathematics.
Irish Leaving Certificate:
Minimum of 3 Higher Level passes and 4 Ordinary Level passes in subjects relevant to the Business Analyst course.
Scottish Higher Examinations:
Minimum of 2 Higher Grade passes and 4 Intermediate Grade passes in subjects relevant to the Business Analyst course.
Alternative Qualifications:
In addition to the above, the University also accepts a range of other UK and international qualifications. Applicants with non-standard qualifications or mature students should contact the Admissions Team for further information.
Subject-Specific Requirements:
- Applicants with a background in mathematics, statistics, or computer science may be considered for advanced entry to the program.
- Applicants with relevant work experience in business analysis or a related field may be considered for direct entry to the program.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
- For students whose first language is not English, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each component) is required.
- Other equivalent language qualifications may be accepted.
Selection Criteria:
- Applications are assessed based on the following criteria:
- Academic qualifications
- Personal statement
- References
- Performance in relevant work experience (if applicable)
- Availability for interview
International Students:
- International students are required to meet the same entry requirements as UK students, with the additional requirement of providing evidence of financial support.