Business and Marketing
Business HNC
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Applications for this course are currently closed.
Applications will reopen in January 2027 for entry to Semester 1 of the 2027/28 academic year. If you are interested in studying HNC Business at Edinburgh College, we encourage you to check back in January when applications open.
HNC Business (SCQF Level 7) is designed for learners who want to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required for a successful career in business, management and professional services.
This industry-relevant qualification combines practical business skills with a strong understanding of how modern organisations operate. You will explore key areas including marketing, accounting, economics, human resource management, business communications and emerging technologies, giving you a broad understanding of today's business environment.
As part of Edinburgh College's Business and Marketing Pathway, this course provides a clear progression route to degree-level study and a wide range of careers across the business sector. The course has been designed to reflect the skills and knowledge sought by employers, helping you develop both the academic understanding and professional behaviours required for success.
Throughout the course, you will develop problem-solving, communication and analytical skills while exploring how organisations manage people, finances, customers and business operations in an increasingly digital world.
This course provides an excellent platform for learners seeking careers in business, management, marketing, financial services, entrepreneurship and professional services.
What you will learn
Units Include
- Marketing: An Introduction
- Economic Issues: An Introduction
- Accounting for Business: An Introduction
- Managing People and Organisations
- Business Fundamentals with Emerging Technologies
- Business: Graded Unit 1
- Study Skills
- Communications
- International Marketing: An Introduction
- Communication: Business Communication
- Human Resource Management: Introduction
Meta-Skills Developed
- Integrity
- Adapting
- Initiative
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Curiosity
- Critical Thinking
- Sense-making
- Focusing
Placement information
- No placement required.
How the course is assessed
Each subject will have different evidence requirements and assessment approaches.
- Open Book
- Exam, closed-book, controlled
- Project-based assessments
Number of days per week
- 2 days per week on campus and 1 day per week self-study.
Entry requirements
- Entry requirements
- Minimum of two relevant Highers at Grade C or above and a minimum of 3 National 5s at Grade C or above in relevant subjects; these must include English, Maths or equivalent.
- Subjects may be Business-related, Maths, English, Social Science, or Science-based.
Or
- Relevant National Qualifications or NPA Group Award at SCQF level 6 or above
Applicants will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account qualifications, experience and potential to succeed on the programme.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be required to attend a group or individual information session.
- You may be required to complete a skills check as part of the application process.
- Further information about the course and progression opportunities will be provided during the information session.
English Proficiency Requirements
Minimum IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- HNC can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the HNC in Business allows direct entry into the second year of most degree programmes.
- Higher National qualifications also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs), such as the SVQ in Business and Administration.
- The Chartered Banker Institute (CBI), formerly the Chartered Institute of Bankers for Scotland, currently accepts holders of HNC and HND directly into their higher-level qualification, leading to MCIBS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland). For more information, see the Chartered Banker website.
- Pathways
Career options
- Assistant Business Manager
- Business Analyst
- Business Advisor
- Self-employment
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 | 11/06/27 |
