Introductory description

This module introduces students to Business Law and Finance, two essential aspects of business operations. The Business Law component explores the legal frameworks that shape business activity, including types of business structures, basic principles of contract law, and the responsibilities of businesses and individuals under the law. The Finance component focuses on how businesses raise funds, make financial decisions, and assess their financial performance. Together, these areas provide a well-rounded introduction to the legal and financial dimensions of business. By the end of the module, students will be able to explain key legal principles relevant to business, apply basic financial concepts, and evaluate how law and finance influence business decision-making.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

1. Introduction to Business Law and Finance, and their role in business decision making.
2. Company Law and Business Organisations including a) sole traders, b) partnerships, c) private limited companies and d) public limited companies.
3. Intellectual Property Law including a) copyright, b) patents and c) trademarks and their importance in protecting business ideas, products and branding.
4. Contract Law including a) the definition and purpose of contracts, including freedom of contract, b) unilateral and bilateral contracts, c) offer (including invitation to treat) d) acceptance, e) consideration and f) intention to create legal relations.
5. Discrimination in Employment including a) protected characteristics b) Types of discrimination.
6. Measuring Financial Performance including a) interpretation of basic financial statements, b) income statements c) balance sheets.
7. Sources of Finance and Risk including a) different sources of finances b) Risks associated with these sources of finance and investment appraisals.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Identify and describe key legal structures used in business (e.g. sole traders, partnerships, companies)
• Explain the foundational principles of contract law and how they apply to business situations.
• Recognise the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals and organisations in a business context.
• Interpret simple financial statements (such as income statements and balance sheets) to assess business performance.
• Apply basic financial concepts to evaluate simple business decisions, including raising finance and investment choices.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Interdisciplinary

Students will have opportunities to draw on knowledge and skills acquired within the different modules on their pathway.

International

All students are international, representing a wide range of cultural, linguistic and educational backgrounds. They bring a diverse experiences and perspectives, enriching discussion and supporting the development of intercultural awareness.

Subject specific skills

Level of proficiency outcomes of students by the end of the programme - ready for undergraduate study.

Transferable skills

Report writing.
Analytical and evaluation skills
Critical thinking skills