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UNIVERSITY ACADEMY 92

MANCHESTER

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Business of Football
BSc (Hons)

BUSINESS

Do you dream of working in football, want to understand what goes on both on and off the pitch, from boot room to boardroom? The BSc (Hons) Business of Football degree is your chance to turn your passion for football into a real-life career.
The Lancaster university logo.

STUDY OPTIONS

OVERVIEW

STUDY LEVELS

BSc (Hons)

UCAS CODE

N841

DURATION

3 Years

START DATE(S)

Sep / Nov / Jan / Feb / Apr / Jun

ENTRY YEAR

2025/26 | 2026/27

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

104*

What you will learn

The BSc (Hons) Business of Football degree will set you up for an exciting career in the multi-billion dollar, global industry, of football business.

Imagine yourself working behind the scenes at your favourite club; developing strategies to increase your fanbase, attracting sponsors, managing finances, organising events, engaging with communities, or identifying the next generation of superstars.

This course gives you a 360-view of the business side of football, from club management and operations to marketing and data analysis. It also places a strong emphasis on the link between on-field performance, off the field club management and the wider club community development.

Get ready to dive into real-world scenarios, unpack the secrets of success and prepare to tackle industry challenges head-on. When you graduate, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the fast-paced world of professional football.

So, if you are looking for a Football Business course in Manchester, our BSc (Hons) Business of Football degree is the perfect choice for you.

How You Will Study

Course
breakdown

24 weeks of
study per year

 

4 x 6-week blocks per year

1 subject module per block

4 CPD focus days per block

Subject Module
Breakdown

250 hours of
study per module

 

80 hrs face-to-face (32%)

20 hrs Digital Wednesdays (8%)

150 hrs independent study (60%)

Assessment
Breakdown

No traditional
end-of-year exams*

 

Year 1 – 100% coursework

Year 2 – 100% coursework

Year 3 – 100% coursework

Your 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.

Module 1 - Sports Operations Management

You’ll study the Operations Management frameworks and techniques used to proactively develop strategies in order to design, plan, and control operations and explore ways to improve football business performance.

Module 2 - Football Law, Ethics and Social Responsibility

This module tackles the legal, ethical, and social side of football. You’ll learn about the laws that govern transfers, contracts, and even fan behaviour. We’ll also explore the ethics of doping and how decisions impact the rules of the game. Plus, you’ll dive into the social responsibility of football clubs and their impact on communities. No legal jargon here – just how to be a responsible leader in the world’s most popular sport.

Module 3 - Talent Identification, Analysis and Player Management

Want to know how clubs find future football superstars? In this module, you’ll learn the secrets of talent identification in both youth development and professional football. You’ll delve into player management and explore how clubs create the perfect environment to develop and nurture future talent. Finally, you’ll get to grips with player and match analysis, discovering ways to collect and interpret data in order to assess player performance.

Module 4 - Football Policy and Community Development

This module looks at how football policies impact society in the UK and worldwide. Learn about the economic and social impact of the sport, policy implementation, and how football can be a force for good! You’ll explore different ways clubs fund local community initiatives, especially for underrepresented groups. Plus, you’ll gain hands-on experience with a 30-hour placement at a local community-based

Module 1 - Strategic Leadership

You’ll develop a critical understanding of the evolution of leadership theory, its function in contemporary football business environments, the role and responsibilities of a business leader and the organisational principles that contribute to contemporary business leadership issues.

Module 2 - Football Governance

This module will give you the knowledge to understand the challenges and opportunities facing football clubs today. You’ll analyse ownership models, legal structures, and how to balance the interests of fans, investors, and players. Think competition fairness, financial sustainability, and navigating the media. This isn’t just about the game – it’s about the business behind the game.

Module 3 - New Trends in Sports Business Management

You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of new trends in the football industry. You’ll explore the key issues, approaches and challenges related to emerging trends within football business and management.

Module 4 - Sports Business Challenge

In this module, you’ll get the chance to apply your knowledge of football management to real-world football business cases. You will use the techniques and skills you have learnt over the course to perform an evaluation and communicate results, with a focus on managing performance and organisational development.

What is the 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.

Throughout the 92 Programme, you will develop skills in self-reflection and awareness, wellness and resilience and professionalism and employability, as well as upskill in different areas.

Find out more about how we prepare students for future career success.

Why the 92 Programme is part of your course?

In a recent study*, 78% of employers believe graduates do not arrive in the workplace fully equipped with the skills they need to be work-ready.

Another study conducted by the World Economic Forum** identified ‘10 Skills You Need for the Future of Work’. These skills include:

  • Emotional intelligence (EQ)
  • Analytical (critical) thinking
  • Active learning with a growth mindset
  • Interpersonal communication skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Technology skills

At UA92, we prepare you for life after graduation and equip you with the skills employers value most. You may not realise it, but developing  these skills now, will get you set for career success and could land you that dream job in the future.

*CMI Report: Work Ready Graduates

**World Economic Forum: The Future of Jobs Report 2023

How is the 92 Programme assessed?

You will produce a learning journal that will document your experiences. This will be submitted at the end of each academic year (or level of study) to assess whether you have met the required standard to pass the module.

Why study at UA92

UA92 offer a deliberately different experience to traditional universities; with fixed morning or afternoon timetables and no end of year exams. Our industry-inspired courses, place character and personal development firmly at the core of the learning experience. This is more than a degree. It’s preparation for life.

  • Degrees awarded by the prestigious Lancaster University
  • No traditional end of year exams**
  • Study one module at a time
  • Courses co-designed with industry
  • Fixed morning or afternoon timetable***
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year
  • Focus on Character and Personal Development

90%

said they felt supported with their learning.

NSS Results 2024

UA92 scored higher than all Greater Manchester Universities for Teaching, Academic Support, Mental Health Support Services and Assessment and Feedback in the National Student Survey 2024.*

THIS COURSE IS TAUGHT AT

UA92 Business School

Our game-changing UA92 Business School in the city-centre of Manchester opened in September 2023. As our central hub for enterprise, it will transform the way we deliver our Business and Accounting courses. The campus is in the heart of Manchester’s thriving business district, less than one minute from Salford Central train station, and well connected to the rest of Manchester and beyond.

FIND US

UA92 Business School

Baskerville House

Browncross Street

Manchester UK

M3 5FS

Careers In Football Business

What’s next for a Business of Football graduate?

A Business of Football degree at UA92 will give you a deep understanding of the sport’s commercial and regulatory landscape, and equip you with sought-after and adaptable skills.

Whether working for a football club, sports agency, or governing body, professionals in this field manage various aspects of the football industry, including team management, marketing, finance, operations, and player negotiations.

This dynamic career path provides opportunities to shape the business side of the game, influence major decisions, and contribute to the growth and success of football at all levels. With the global popularity of football, the demand for skilled business professionals in this industry continues to rise, promising a rewarding and impactful career.

91%

of graduates are engaged in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.*

FIND OUT MORE

UA92 is above the national average for graduate outcomes. The Graduate Outcomes survey is the biggest annual survey that captures the status of recent graduates who completed their studies at a higher education institution in the UK. 

*Graduate Outcomes Survey Results released in 2024. National Average is 89%.

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.

Our industry partners play a vital role in shaping both the curriculum you study and your student experience. From delivering guest lectures and masterclasses to providing internships and graduate roles. Here are just some of our partners:

Looking to find out more?

Meet our Course Leader in Sports Business Management, Spencer Fearn, who discusses the similarities and differences between the Business of Football and Sports Management courses. He explains the potential career paths post graduation, whether you dream of a future working in Sports or Football.

Meet the Business Team

Meet the Business Team

Ahmed Saleem - Business Academic

Ahmed Saleem

Business Teaching Associate

I’m a Teaching Associate in Accounting at UA92, with a strong foundation in both academia and industry. I hold a BSc in Mathematics with Finance from the University of Manchester and am currently pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance at Robert Gordon University (RGU). I have completed AAT Level 3, am nearing the completion of AAT Level 4, and have achieved the Knowledge level of ACCA.

I bring valuable industry experience to my teaching, having worked as a bookkeeper, finance assistant, and legal cashier. These roles have provided me with hands-on experience in managing financial records, supporting accounting operations, and ensuring compliance with legal financial practices.

At UA92, I’m responsible for delivering comprehensive accounting education across various modules. I am also instrumental in encouraging students to pursue professional qualifications such as AAT Level 2, guiding them to successful certifications. My teaching approach emphasizes the application of accounting principles in areas such as corporate governance, CSR, and financial analysis. I remain committed to continuous professional development and actively seek to ensure students are well-prepared for careers in accounting and finance.

Donna Walsh

Business Lecturer

I’m Business lecturer at UA92 with an eclectic career history, showing a a path does not have to be straight. Previously I have worked as a manager in day centers for adults with autism and challenging behaviors, project-managed the construction of a swimming pool, and have ran a successful childcare business before transitioning to teaching. A proud mother of two grown daughters and a dog lover.

Dr Firoz Bhaiyat

Head of Business

I’ve worked in academia for over 10 years following a short time in industry, holding positions at different levels. I started my academic career as a Graduate Tutor and progressed over time, holding numerous positions ranging from Course Leader, then Subject Head to more recently Associate Dean. I have a first degree in Business (a major in Accounting and Marketing) and a Masters degree in Banking and Finance. My passion for education has also led to a Diploma in Events Management, a Post Graduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education and a Certificate in Financial Technology and Innovation. My research interests are within the field of Leadership, Management, Financial Distress and Financial Technology. I’m passionate about bringing real world experiences to students to provide them with an outstanding experience.

Emma Gaskill

Course Leader: Accounting and Finance

I have over 10 years of industry experience in various accounting roles and a BSc Hons in Business Law, Post Grad Cert in Education, and AAT Level 4 qualifications. I have been teaching in Accounting and Finance / Accounting and Business at UA92 for 4 years. My specialism lies in all areas of accounting, particularly taxation. I am a fully licensed accountant with the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and run a successful accounting and finance business.

UA92 Jay Edwards

Jay Edwards

Lecturer in Digital Marketing

I have over 14 years of experience in the education sector, starting as a secondary school teacher and transitioning to higher education in 2023. My academic focus is on consumer behaviour, particularly in relation to minority communities in the UK. Since 2016, I have also worked in the industry, running marketing campaigns for non-profit events, hospitality, and global sports initiatives. Outside of academia, I serve as the Head of Marketing and an organiser for Southampton Pride, where I am dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. I am passionate about fostering an inclusive environment in both academic and community settings.

Kelly Henley

Course Leader: Business Management

I have over 14 years of teaching experience in Higher Education. Before teaching, I was a HR Manager within the hospitality industry for a few leading brands. In 2009, I decided to take the leap and went back to university to get my teaching qualification at L7 Post compulsory Education. I have a passion for Teaching and Learning and am a big advocate for the students and supports students as a Course Leader for Business Management. My areas of expertise are Cross Cultural Management and Leadership. My current research interests are Strategic Leadership and HRM At UA92, as well as Course Leading. I am also the 92Programme Lead for the World of Business and the Lead for Teaching and Learning.

Lisa Moreton

Lecturer in Business & Management

I have 15 years of experience teaching Business Management across a range of educational institutions. 

I have worked at UA92 since it opened in 2019 but before academia, I was an experienced business professional and spent several years as an owner/director of a small business working with some of the top Manchester sporting clubs on event days.

My passion is Business and Organisation Behaviour and the effects this has on the people that work within them, as such I often lead on the marketing and human resources modules. 

Mousa Alzoubi - Business Academic

Moussa Alzoubi

Business Lecturer

I am a lecturer in Business and Management. I finished PhD in Business management from Sheffield Hallam University 2023. I have worked with different universities around the UK. I am very passionate about innovation and how innovative impact firm performance.

Mudassar Sohail - Business Academic

Mudassar Sohail

Business Lecturer

I am a Lecturer in Business Management and the Module Leader at UA92 Business School. As of 2022, I obtained a Doctorate in Business Administration from University of the West of Scotland, MSc in Marketing from the University of Salford and MBA from University of Chester. Prior to this, I have worked at the University of Salford as a Lecturer and dissertation supervisor. In 2019, i was awarded with ‘Best Research

Natalie Walker-Craig - Business Academic

Natalie Walker-Craig

Sports Management Lecturer

I’m a Manchester Metropolitan University Graduate with over 25 years in the sports and leisure industry, putting great focus on creating inclusive, accessible activities and spaces for all.  As a lead for equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in Salford. I’ve managed community sports development teams and programmes, including redeveloping school and university sports facilities in Greater Manchester. I’m now a lecturer in Sport Business Management at UA92, passionate about inspiring and educating future sports leaders to champion diversity and community engagement in the industry. In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf and padel tennis.

Teaching Excellence Framework Silver Award

FIND OUT MORE

A TEF Silver award is a recognition that a university or college provides high-quality teaching, learning, and outcomes for its students. It’s given by the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), a national scheme that assesses undergraduate courses in the UK. 

ASK OUR BUSINESS STUDENTS

Our friendly ambassadors are ready to answer your questions. Click on the ‘Ask me a question’ button to start a conversation.

 

*The NSS results referred to above compares UA92’s results against the 4 Universities in Greater Manchester (University of Bolton, Manchester Metropolitan University, Salford University and The University of Manchester). Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic support refers to the average score across all questions in these themes. Mental health support services refers to question: How well communicated was information about your university/college’s mental wellbeing support services?

** There may be exams in some subject areas where external accreditations are available.

*** If you start in February, April or June or as an accelerated student, we can’t guarantee your timetable will be fixed am/pm throughout your studies.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The standard entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Business of Football course is 104 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 104 UCAS Points. Alternatively, we have other courses that we can offer. If you would like to know more about applying to UA92 or have any questions about our entry requirements, please contact our Student Futures Team.

LEVEL 2

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

LEVEL 3

  • UCAS Points: 104
  • A Levels: BCC (104 equivalent)
  • BTEC National Extended Diploma: DMM
  • BTEC Diploma: D*D
  • T Levels: M
  • Scottish Advanced Highers: AB
  • IB: 28 points with 14 from Higher Level Subjects

NON-TRADITONAL

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 28 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
FEES AND FINANCE
Students studying on the Accelerated Accounting and Business Management course.

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