The Modular Programme

Modules are self-contained units of study, which are taught and assessed independently. Full-time students normally take four per semester.

Choice and flexibility

Modules come in three levels: first year (basic modules), second year (advanced modules) and final year (honours modules). Each module is taught using a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, group work and assessment. Typical course structures are illustrated by the charts on the individual course pages that follow. Help and advice in making your choices is provided by your personal tutor and course manager.

Combined honours

A combined honours programme allows you to take either a joint approach or to major in one of two subjects. If you take the joint approach, your workload is balanced between your two subjects; if you choose to major in one subject, your accompanying minor subject accounts for between a third and a quarter of your overall work. Combining business with another subject can improve your employability prospects and help you develop an existing passion into a rewarding career.

Benefits of the modular programme

The flexibility of the modular system allows you to focus on special areas of interest within your chosen course or courses. This is a common feature of all subjects across the University, except for courses carrying professional recognition, where choice may be limited. You can choose from the range of modules on offer within each course or, alternatively, you may wish to take some modules from outside your chosen course(s). Specialising during your degree can help you to gain expertise in certain areas that will be useful to potential employers and therefore provide yourself with an advantage when entering the job market.

Work placements

A key feature of all our undergraduate courses is the work placement scheme, which lays the foundations for a successful career. On Business School courses the work placement year is optional, though strongly recommended, and takes place in the third year of a four-year course. If you undertake a work placement in your third year, you will take a ‘Skills for Placement Search’ module during your second year to support you through the process of securing a placement.

Exchanges

Recognising the benefits of studying abroad, we encourage you to take part of your studies overseas. We have a growing number of exchange agreements with institutions in the USA, Canada, Australia and links with institutes in 9 European countries.

"The modular programme at Oxford Brookes takes an international approach to the study of business and offers maximum flexibility in tailoring a programme of study to meet your needs and interests."

Berry O'Donovan
Head of Learning and Teaching