Program Overview

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Business of Football Cert HE

Overview

The Cert HE in Business of Football is a level 4 qualification that will kick-start your dream career or enable you to progress to the second year of our BSc Business of Football degree. This course gives you an introduction to the business side of football, from club management to fan engagement.

Study Options

• Cert HE (1 year)
• Honours (3 years)

Course Information

UCAS Code

N804

Duration

1 Year

Start Date(s)

Sep / Nov / Jan / Feb / Apr / Jun

Entry Year

2025/26 | 2026/27

Entry Requirements

64 UCAS points

What You Will Learn

Want to turn your passion for football into a real-life career? The Cert HE in Business of Football will introduce you to the business side of football, from club management to fan engagement. You'll focus primarily on understanding how a football club operates and how they engage with fans and the wider community.

Course Modules

Module 1 - Management and Organisations

You'll explore the business environment; understanding the internal and external forces that impact on organisations (including football clubs) the historical and contemporary issues affecting the management of people in organisations and the skills and attributes required to become an effective leader.

Module 2 - Introduction to Sports Events Management

You'll develop an in-depth understanding of what it takes to organise, manage and deliver memorable and successful football events; covering event design, development and practical fundamentals as well as managing the health, safety and security of all stakeholders.

Module 3 - Sports Finance and Economics

You'll cover the basics of business finance and the economics of professional football. This module will help you develop the fundamental knowledge and skills you need to become familiar with sports financial management, specifically the financial statements and economic factors within professional football.

Module 4 - Fan Engagement, Marketing and Commercialisation of Football

Ever wondered how football clubs sell out stadiums, sign up sponsors, and keeps fans glued to their seat? This module dives into the world of football marketing and commercialisation. You'll learn how clubs build a passionate fanbase, manage relationships with customers and stakeholders, score big sponsorship deals, and build a recognised brand with socially responsible values.

92 Programme

Alongside your subject modules, you will complete the 92 Programme.

• Engaging with the 92 Programme is a requirement for all students and will count towards your overall grade.
• In each block, you will take part in a number of Character and Personal Development focus days.
• During these focus days, you will complete activities designed to boost your mindset, develop your skillset and get you set for future career success.

Careers in Football Business

This 1-year course is the perfect stepping stone to a full Business of Football degree. If you pass the Cert HE successfully, you will automatically be eligible to progress to the second year of the 3-year degree programme.

Industry Partnerships

We have over 60 industry partners who support our mission to develop career-ready graduates. These partnerships provide you with access to industry-leading expertise, mentorship opportunities and work-place experiences.

Fees and Finance

• Fees and Finance
• Funding

Entry Requirements

The standard entry requirements for the Business of Football Cert HE course is 64 UCAS points. However, each application is assessed on an individual basis, taking into consideration a wide range of factors. Depending on your personal circumstances, and in line with our Contextual Admissions Policy, your application may still be considered if you have less than 64 UCAS Points.

Level 2

• 2 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above including English Language
• Accepted Alternatives: Functional Skills Level 2 (English and Maths)

Level 3

• UCAS Points: 64
• A Levels: CC (64 equivalent)
• BTEC National Extended Diploma: MPP
• BTEC Diploma: MM
• T Levels: P (C+)
• Scottish Advanced Highers: DD
• IB: 24 points with 14 from Higher Level Subjects

Non-Traditional

Some qualifications do not carry UCAS Tariff points but may still be considered. We take into account a range of qualifications and work/life experience that can demonstrate your ability to succeed on the course. Each application is assessed on an individual basis, taking into consideration a wide range of factors.

International

• International Baccalaureat: Pass the IB Diploma with minimum 24 points overall, with 14 points from Higher Level Subjects.
• English Language Requirements: In addition to meeting the academic criteria, if your first language isn’t English, you may be asked for a recognised English language qualification. This is especially important if you are not a national of a majority English speaking country or you haven’t completed a degree in English. If you are an international student, in order to obtain a student visa, you will be required to demonstrate that you have the correct level of English language competency to study in the UK.
  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5