Level 4 BTEC HNC in Business in Daventry. Classes run at Northampton College at Daventry, full-time during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll study core business topics including marketing, finance, human resource management, and operations management. Lessons typically run over two to three days per week, with additional research and coursework expected outside timetabled sessions. Entry requires a Level 3 qualification worth at least 48 UCAS points, such as A Levels, a BTEC Diploma, or an Access to HE Diploma, plus GCSE grade 4 or above in English and maths. Applicants aged 21 or over without these qualifications may be considered after interview.
Who this course is for
The HNC/HND course is designed for people looking to progress in their careers, gain practical skills and achieve an industry-recognised qualification. It is ideal for school leavers aged 18+, career changers, working professionals seeking to upskill, and ambitious learners. The course suits those interested in developing higher-level business skills or those already employed who wish to gain a higher-level qualification in business management.
Entry requirements
Students need a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 48 UCAS points, such as A Levels, a BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma, Access to HE Diploma, or an Advanced Apprenticeship. GCSE grade 4 or above in English and maths is required. Applicants aged 21+ without these qualifications may still be considered following application and interview.
What you will learn
You'll explore how businesses operate and respond to their environment
You'll apply marketing principles to real business scenarios
You'll study human resource management and how organisations manage people
You'll examine management and operations across different business functions
You'll develop skills in management accounting and financial decision-making
You'll plan and complete a substantial business project from start to finish
How you will learn
The course is delivered through lectures and workshops, with opportunities to engage with work environments. Assessment is through coursework and assignments, including a Managing a Successful Business Project. Outside timetabled sessions, you'll need to set aside at least two days per week for research and coursework. Teaching staff bring industry experience alongside their academic backgrounds.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College at Daventry will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Business administrator, supporting operations across a range of organisations
Marketing assistant, planning and delivering campaigns for products or services
HR assistant, helping manage recruitment, training, and staff relations
Operations coordinator, keeping business processes running efficiently
Finance assistant, supporting budgeting, reporting, and accounts
Team leader or junior manager, overseeing staff in a business setting
What you could study next
Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Business (HND) - the natural next step after the HNC, deepening your knowledge and opening more senior roles.
A full undergraduate degree - many universities accept the HNC or HND for entry into the second or third year of a business-related degree.
Professional qualifications such as CIPD (HR), AAT (accounting), or CIM (marketing) - useful if you want to specialise in a particular business function.
