Organisations are constantly having to reinvent themselves, by evolving the way they operate, in order to stand-out in an increasingly saturated international business market. This means graduates with the ability to put theory into practice, and with experience of the modern business workplace, are in high demand.
The course focuses on organisations of all kinds, from multinational corporations to social enterprises and charities. This holistic approach ensures students develop the skills to respond to the evolving needs of all businesses, irrespective of sector.
Students will develop management expertise from a team of international researchers and business practitioners. They’ll introduce students to disciplines like accounting, digital technology, marketing, human resources and employment, management, and economics. With their support, students will build a skill set to respond to current developments and challenges in business and society, while preparing to launch a successful career or pursue further postgraduate study and research.
Tuition fees
Fee
Programme start date
Fee for Kazakhstani students
US$16,000 per year
September 2026
Fee for international students
US$18,000 per year
September 2026
Entry requirements
To enter this four-year undergraduate degree programme you will need:
to successfully complete the ATTESTAT/Certificate of Secondary Education with an overall average of 4 or above from the grade 11 transcript, to include a grade of 4 or above in mathematics
a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (with no component below 5.5) or an equivalent proof of English proficiency such as TOEFL or the Cardiff University English Language Test.
The entry requirements are specifically for admission to Cardiff University Kazakhstan. Find out more about the Kazakhstan Government Scholarship on our website and using local sources.
Modules
Foundation Year (60 ECTS)
The first year of our four-year degree programmes is a foundation year to provide students with the academic knowledge, English language competencies, and study skills needed to progress into degree-level studies.
Academic English language modules will help strengthen your English language skills, before you study further modules focused on the relevant skills and knowledge required to progress into undergraduate study.
Academic Writing and Study Skills
Credits: 10 ECTS
This module aims to improve students’ proficiency in English writing and develop essential academic writing skills. It will focus on writing in an academic style, including written accuracy, formal register, and the ability to plan, draft, evaluate, and edit academic written work. Additionally, it aims to develop the use of academic grammar and vocabulary, presenting coherent arguments, and solving problems. This module emphasises learner training, which includes self-reflection, goal-setting and evaluation, to better prepare students for their academic studies.
Learning outcomes
Draft, plan, write and review a structured essay using an appropriate academic style and range of academic features effectively.
Identify and use academic vocabulary in written work.
Synthesise information from a range of academic sources to develop a timed argumentative essay.
English for Communication Skills
Credits: 10 ECTS
This module aims to develop students’ academic presentation skills and research methods (including use of library and database systems) with a focus on the importance of appropriate and accurate referencing. Classes also aim to develop effective reading and listening techniques for comprehension and summary tasks, and critical evaluation skills. This module emphasises learner training, which includes self-reflection, goal-setting and evaluation, to better prepare students for their academic studies.
Learning outcomes
Identify key points in listening extracts to complete comprehension and summary tasks.
Identify key points in reading texts to complete comprehension and summary tasks.
Conduct research using library and online resources.
Apply the Cardiff University Harvard Referencing system.
Prepare and deliver effective academic presentations.
Key Topics in Social Sciences
Credits: 10 ECTS
This module explores the key ideas and debates in social science that help us understand how people, organisations, and societies work — and why that matters for business.
In this module you will learn to build strong, evidence-based arguments, form informed opinions, and critically evaluate key debates. You’ll examine how culture, identity, and power shape human behaviour, decisions, and relationships. We’ll look at how social structures — such as education, government, and the economy — influence business environments, customer behaviour, and workforce dynamics.
You’ll also explore major social issues like globalisation, climate change, and inequality, and consider how they impact businesses and the wider economy. The module introduces key disciplines such as sociology, politics, and economics, all through a lens that links social science to the world of work, enterprise, and management.
It also teaches you to spot biases and limitations in research, sharpening your ability to think critically about the world around you. By the end of the module, you’ll have developed critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of how social factors influence business success — preparing you for further study in business, management, or related subjects.
Learning outcomes
Define and explain core social science concepts
Discuss key topics within the field of Social Science
Construct well-supported arguments based on evidence and theoretical frameworks.
Evaluate different perspectives on social issues and forming informed opinions.
Identify biases and limitations in social research.
Social Research Methods
Credits: 10 ECTS
In this module you will learn about different ways of conducting research projects in Business Management. The module starts by exploring how to ask a good research question, moving onto the difference between qualitative and quantitative approaches. You will also gain experience of designing simple data collection instruments.
Learning outcomes
Specify a research question that relates to a Business Management context
Describe the key differences between quantitative and qualitative approaches
Apply an appropriate research strategy to a research question
Collaborate with peers to present an appropriate research proposal
Reflect on ethical issues relating to Business Management
Understanding the Economy and Business Context
Credits: 10 ECTS
This module will equip you with the skills to analyse the external environment in which businesses operate. You will explore how these factors influence business strategies and decision-making, with a focus on real-world applications. Key topics include government policies, economic indicators, societal trends, technological advancements, legal compliance, and sustainability challenges.
Learning outcomes
Describe the role of political systems, government policies, and legal frameworks in shaping the opportunities and challenges faced by businesses.
Explain how economic factors such as inflation, GDP, unemployment, interest rates, and globalisation impact business performance, trade, and strategic decision-making.
Identify and evaluate how social and cultural factors, including demographics, lifestyle changes, and consumer behaviour, impact business activity.
Demonstrate an understanding of how technological developments influence innovation, business efficiency, and competitive advantage.
Explain the role of environmental factors, such as sustainability and climate change, in influencing business practices and long-term planning.
Understanding Organisations
Credits: 10 ECTS
In this module you will learn how organisations function and the activities of people within them. It covers key business areas—marketing, strategy, operations, finance, accounting, and HR—while exploring individual and group behaviour, managerial control, and the changing nature of work. Through this you will gain a foundation in business disciplines and insight into how different theoretical perspectives shape management practices.
Learning outcomes
Identify the roles of key business areas (marketing, strategy, operations, finance, accounting, and HR) within organisations.
Explain the importance of strategy and decision-making in achieving organisational goals.
Apply basic marketing principles to demonstrate how organisations create value for customers.
Discuss how human resource management practices impact organisational performance.
Interpret basic financial and accounting information to understand organisational decision-making.
Analyse the challenges organisations face in managing operations, including efficiency and sustainability.
Kazakh Language and History
Additional course.
Year one (60 ECTS)
Module title
Credits
Society and Economy
10 ECTS
Operations Management
5 ECTS
Introduction to Accounting
10 ECTS
Management: Theory and Evidence
10 ECTS
Marketing
10 ECTS
People in Organisations
10 ECTS
Technology and the Digital Age
5 ECTS
Year two (60 ECTS)
Module title
Credits
Challenges in Managing and Leading Organizations
10 ECTS
Excellence in Managing Operations
10 ECTS
Performance and Financial Management
10 ECTS
Marketing and Strategy
10 ECTS
Managing People
10 ECTS
Optional modules
In year two, students will also select 10 ECTS credits from a range of optional modules, including:
Module title
Credits
Project Management
10 ECTS
Purchasing and Supply Chain Management
10 ECTS
International Management
10 ECTS
Year three (60 ECTS)
Module title
Credits
Critical Perspectives for Contemporary Managers
10 ECTS
Strategic Management
10 ECTS
Optional modules
In year three, students will also select 40 ECTS credits from a range of optional modules, including:
Module title
Credits
International Business
10 ECTS
International Human Resource Management
10 ECTS
Services Marketing
10 ECTS
Responsible Strategic Supplier Management
10 ECTS
Logistics in the Digital Age
10 ECTS
Forensics
10 ECTS
Modelling in Management Science
10 ECTS
Exploratory Data Analysis
10 ECTS
Apply
Apply for Business Management (BSc) with a Foundation Year at Cardiff University Kazakhstan.
