International Baccaulaureate (IB) Business Management

Applications Open: 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: 27th February 2026

Application Details: At Hartsdown Academy we run the International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme https://www.ibo.org/programmes/career-related-programme/ . Prospective students need to choose 1 Vocational Course (BTEC or OCR) and 2 IB Diploma Courses.

Entry Requirements: 5 x Grade 4-9 including Maths & English. A good attendance and behaviour record is also essential.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

At Hartsdown Academy, in Business Studies we are passionate about preparing our students to face the challenges and triumphs that come with entering the workforce.

Understanding how businesses work is integral to this, whether this is in the form of an employee, business owner or just a better awareness of economic factors in everyday decision making.

By studying key areas of finance, marketing, operations, management and HR our students get a holistic view of what is involved in business, which in turn promotes a deeper understanding of current affairs and the connection between individuals, business and society.

The IB business management course emphasises the development of: strong written, verbal and visual communication skills; critical thinking; problem-solving and ethical considerations that will assist students in preparing for the future global workplace.

1. Introduction to business management
2. Human Resource Management
3. Finance and Accounts
4. Marketing
5. Operations Management

HL - Additional Higher content for each module.

Paper 1 - Students will undergo research on a pre-released statement to bring context and knowledge from all 5 units to unseen case studies in both papers.

Paper 2 - Students will answer questions with a quantitative Focus.

Paper 3 - (Higher only) paper based on unseen stimulus on social Enterprise.

Business research project - Students produce a research project about a real business issue or problem facing a particular organisation using a conceptual lens.

SL - 2 exams and a 1800 word IA Business report

HL - 3 exams and a 1800 word IA Business report

Grade 5+ in English and Maths, 4 other subjects at Grade 4+

IB Business management is a highly valued course. Business has skills that are rooted in the workplace; the ability to make judgements and decisions, reflect and improve and to work collaboratively with others.

Direct degrees

• Business Studies
• Management Studies
• Accounting and Finance
• Marketing
• Human Resource Management
• Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism.

Potential careers;

• Advertising and Marketing Manager
• Accountant
• Business Manager
• Project manager
• Sports agent
• Banking and insurance
• Events Planner
• Climate change analyst