Higher National Certificate in
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
A university credit-bearing qualification leading directly
to the second year of an International
BSc (Hons) degree programme.
Course overview
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management is a practical, career-focused qualification designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in starting, managing, and growing small businesses. This programme blends the core principles of entrepreneurship with practical applications, enabling learners to understand business planning, marketing strategies, finance management, and business operations. Students are trained to think creatively, develop business strategies, and manage resources efficiently to grow successful businesses. The HNC in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management serves as a strong foundation for those looking to launch their own ventures or pursue careers in business management. Whether you’re planning to start your own business, manage small businesses, or continue your studies, this qualification opens up numerous career opportunities in the business and entrepreneurship sector
Key highlights of the course
- Industry-focused, skill-based vocational qualification
- Specialised business pathway tailored to your career goals
- Direct progression to the second year of a BBA/BSc (Hons) at international universities
- Flexible intake options: September, January, and April
- Recognised globally — your passport to international academic opportunities
- No written exams — assessed through practical assignments and projects
- Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs and future business leaders
- Fully online delivery for flexible and accessible learning
YOUR
FUTURE
PATHWAY
YOUR FUTURE
PATHWAY
What will I study?
The HND in Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management offers specialized pathways, allowing students to tailor their
education to their career goals.
Gain foundational knowledge of how different types of businesses operate, how external and internal environments impact business functions, and the overall commercial landscape.
Learn about marketing techniques and strategies, focusing on how to develop, implement, and assess effective marketing plans
Explore key HR practices including recruitment, selection, training, employee motivation, and employment law within organizations.
Understand leadership theories and management styles, and learn how to lead teams effectively
to achieve strategic goals.
Build essential accounting skills including double-entry bookkeeping, financial statements, and regulatory frameworks for financial reporting.
Develop project management skills by undertaking a real-world business project that emphasizes planning, execution, and reflection.
Examine the role of entrepreneurship in economic growth, and learn how to evaluate and manage new business opportunities.
Learn how to drive innovation within a business, protect intellectual property, and convert innovative ideas into commercially viable solutions.
How will I study?
Designed for international students, this fully online programme ensures maximum flexibility while maintaining high-quality education standards. Choose from the following study modes that fit your schedule and learning preferences:
- Recorded Lectures: Access high-quality pre-recorded lectures anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.
- Personalised Tutor Support: Get one-on-one mentorship from experienced tutors for tailored academic guidance.
- Virtual Learning Experience: Engage in live webinars, discussion forums, and collaborative projects to apply real-world computing concepts. This blended learning approach combines core business theory with real-world application, ensuring you develop the strategic skills and industry insights essential for a successful career in business and management.
HNC/HND with ICE Global
Final Degree at International Universities
How will I be assessed?
We believe in practical, hands-on learning, ensuring that you develop skills that are directly applicable in real-world IT environments.
Assignments: Work on practical, industry-relevant projects
Class Projects: Collaborate with peers to develop real-world IT solutions.
Case Studies: Apply your knowledge to solve complex, real-world technology challenges.
This application-driven approach ensures you graduate job-ready, with the skills and confidence to
thrive in your chosen field.
Where will this course take me?
Upon completion, you gain direct entry into the second year of a bachelor’s degree at leading international universities. Whether you prefer:
- London Metropolitan University
- UWE Bristol
- University of Portsmouth
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- University of Derby
- Bournemouth University
- University of Northampton
- Middlesex University London
- University of Kent
- University of Hertfordshire
- Wrexham University
- University of Chichester
- University College Birmingham
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Oxford Brookes University
What will I get?
Completing your HNC in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, awarded by Pearson, enhances your academic profile while boosting your career potential. This practical qualification builds your confidence, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial skills—preparing you to face the challenges of running and growing small businesses. It also provides a direct pathway to the second year of a relevant undergraduate degree at leading UK and international universities, giving you the flexibility to pursue higher education globally. Whether you’re stepping into the workforce or planning to continue your studies, the HNC in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management supports your journey toward meaningful career and academic growth.
What career can I pursue?
An HNC in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management opens the door to various career opportunities in small business management, entrepreneurship, and business development. With a strong foundation in business planning, operations management, and financial oversight, graduates can explore roles such as:
- Entrepreneur / Startup Founder
- Small Business Owner
- Business Development Manager
- Operations Manager
- Marketing Manager for Small Businesses
- Financial Analyst for SMEs
- Retail Manager
- Business Consultant for Small Businesses
- Product Manager
- Sales and Marketing Manager
- Business Operations Coordinator
Why is BTEC Higher National Certificate the Right Choice for You?
Your Pathway to an International Honours Degree
Leading Directly to an International Honours Degree
The HNC in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, awarded by Pearson, provides a solid academic foundation while enhancing your career prospects in the entrepreneurial and small business sectors. This industry-focused qualification equips you with the practical skills, strategic understanding, and confidence needed to thrive as an entrepreneur or business manager. It also offers a direct progression route into the second year of an undergraduate degree at leading universities in the UK and abroad—enabling you to advance your education globally or step directly into a rewarding entrepreneurial career.
Entry Criteria
Must have completed one of the following:
- A-Levels
- IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
- International Foundation Year
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma
- Or an equivalent recognized qualification
Candidates should also demonstrate English proficiency at a level commensurate to CEFR Level B1 (or equivalent) in speaking, listening, reading, and writing to meet the communication requirements for this qualification.
FAQs
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a one-year qualification awarded by Pearson UK, equivalent to the first year of an international Bachelor’s degree. The HNC is designed to provide students with practical, hands-on learning combined with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing them for real-world employment. The programme consists of coursework-based modules spread over two semesters, allowing students to specialise in their chosen field. It equips learners with current, in-demand skills and offers flexible learning options, making it ideal for both full-time students and working professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects.
We offer HNCs in Business-related fields and Computing-related fields, with specialised pathways. Students can select their preferred pathway at the start of their programme and enrol in the designated course. Each pathway is designed to deliver a well-rounded academic and practical experience, ensuring students develop the skills and expertise necessary to excel in their chosen career
Must have completed one of the following:
A-Levels
IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
International Foundation Year
BTEC Level 3 Diploma
Or a local equivalent recognized qualification
Candidates should also demonstrate English proficiency at a level commensurate to CEFR Level B1 (or equivalent) in speaking, listening, reading, and writing to meet the communication requirements for this qualification.
The Higher National Diploma programme comprises 120 credit hours which is equivalent to 1st year of an International undergraduate degree
HNC graduates have the opportunity to enroll in the second year of HND, offering flexibility to study from anywhere. Additionally, students can explore various study abroad options, with guidance and support from the ICE Career Progression Office, to choose the best pathway for their academic and career goals.
The HNC programme is offered through ICE Global with an entirely online mode of study. Our Virtual Learning Platform (Teaching Zone) provides students with the flexibility to track their progress, access academic timelines, and utilize online learning support and study materials throughout the course. Students also have access to tools like “Turnitin” for plagiarism/ similarity checks and reference resources to ensure the quality of their written submissions before final evaluation. This online approach allows students to study at their own pace, offering convenience and flexibility while still receiving necessary academic support
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) programme provides a robust, skill-based qualification that prepares students for careers in fields such as business, management, computing, and more. Upon completion, students earn 120 credits, which can serve as a significant advantage in the job market. Even if a student does not pursue the final year of their degree, the HNC equips them with practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, enabling them to advance in their careers, start their own ventures, or pursue other professional opportunities. Additionally, students have the option to apply for the 2 nd year year and complete their undergraduate degree within five years of earning their HNC, providing flexibility in their academic journey.