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BUSINESS OF FOOTBALL

Do you dream of working in football, want to understand what goes on both on and off the pitch, from boot room to boardroom?

BUSINESS OF FOOTBALL OVERVIEW

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.

KEY INFORMATION

Duration

  • 2-4 Years

Intakes

  • September 25
  • November 25

Location

  • Manchester - UA92 Business School

Page Section

> Entry Point - Foundation Modules

The International Foundation Programme will be taught at the UA92 Business School

  • Academic and English Skills

This module is designed to provide students the grounding ready to undertake Level 4 study. It focuses on developing students’ knowledge, communication, analytical, critical thinking and key transferable skills which support undergraduate study. It includes a planned combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars, peer support activities, and blended learning to enable candidates to achieve these essential skills. There is an emphasis on student-driven learning and student engagement and participation in the design and evaluation of the module.

  • Introduction to Numerical Techniques

This module will introduce students to basic maths theory and concepts to prepare them for studies in the first year of a degree. It includes a planned combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars, peer support activities, and blended learning to enable candidates to achieve these essential skills. There is an emphasis on student-driven learning and student engagement and participation in the design and evaluation of the module.

  • Introduction to Research

This module is designed to provide students with the necessary research skills to be able to succeed at Level 4 study and beyond. It will enable students to understand, generate, analyse and interpret data and to draw valid conclusions from data. It develops students research skills, how to conduct effective research supported by a clear research plan and data analysis techniques. It includes a planned combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars, peer support activities, and blended learning to enable candidates to achieve these essential skills. There is an emphasis on student-driven learning and student engagement and participation in the design and evaluation of the module.

  • Introduction to Business Management

This module has been designed to provide students the grounding ready to undertake Level 4 study. It presents some of the fundamental aspects of management to provide students with an appreciation of the knowledge and skills needed to run a business. It includes a planned combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars, peer support activities, and blended learning to enable candidates to achieve these essential skills. There is an emphasis on student-driven learning and student engagement and participation in the design and evaluation of the module.

> Entry Point - Year 1 Modules

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.

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.

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.

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.

Year 2 Modules

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.

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.

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.

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

Year 3 Modules

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.

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.

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.

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'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.

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