Heriot-Watt University launches its first fully online undergraduate degree
Heriot-Watt University has launched the BSc Business Management, its first fully online undergraduate degree, marking a major step in expanding accessible, flexible business education to learners worldwide.
Developed by Heriot-Watt Online and Edinburgh Business School (EBS), the programme is designed for people seeking a modern, credible route into business and management. Delivered entirely online with no fixed start dates, it allows learners to study at their own pace and balance their degree with work, caring responsibilities or personal commitments.
The BSc Business Management is designed for learners who want to take the first step in building their careers and shaping their futures.
Dr Katriona Myhill, Associate Professor in Law and Human Resource Management at EBS and Programme Chair for the online BSc Business Management degree, said: “The launch of the BSc in Business Management programme represents my passion for creating accessible, high-quality education for diverse learners and marks EBS’s commitment to shaping inclusive, future-focused business education for the next generation of business leaders.”
To widen access, the programme has a performance-based admissions (PBA) route, allowing learners without traditional entry qualifications to begin their studies immediately. By successfully completing their first course, they progress into the full degree. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is also available, ensuring previous academic or professional experience is valued.
Dr Myhill added: “The performance-based admissions route opens doors for learners who may not hold traditional qualifications but demonstrate the ability and determination to succeed.”
The fully flexible, self-paced structure is designed to support learners with work or caring commitments, removing barriers to participation while maintaining academic rigour.
Dr Bryan Rodgers, Associate Executive Dean (Online Education) at EBS highlights this, stating: “The BSc Business Management is designed for learners who want to take the first step in building their careers and shaping their futures.
“It offers the flexibility to study around life’s commitments, making higher education accessible to those who might not otherwise have had the chance.
“Whether you’re balancing work, caring responsibilities, or returning to education after time away, this programme helps you gain the skills, confidence and knowledge to achieve your ambitions.”
The curriculum is aligned with the skills identified in major global workforce studies, including the WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025. The programme focuses on developing:
- Analytical thinking
- Creative problem-solving
- Leadership and social influence
- Adaptability, resilience and agility
- Motivation and self-awareness
These skills are developed through courses covering the core areas of modern business practice, including Business and the Global Environment, People Management, Business Technology, People Management. Fundamentals of Marketing, Leadership and Strategy, and Business Analytics. Together, these courses build an applied understanding of how businesses operate and the skills required to make effective decisions in an evolving workplace.
Dr Myhill said: “It prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing business environment, embedding adaptability, digital literacy and responsible leadership as core strengths.”
In the third stage of the degree, learners also complete an Industry Specialisation Certificate, allowing them to tailor their degree to a professional area of interest. This provides structured, job-focused training aligned with employer needs, supporting progression into roles such as project management, business analysis, operations management and general management. The degree is also designed as a stackable qualification, offering a clear progression route into further study. Graduates can advance into EBS’s postgraduate portfolio, including MBA Essentials, specialist MBA pathways, the flagship MBA and, for those seeking advanced professional or research expertise, the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).
Dr Myhill adds: "These outcomes ensure that graduates are not only equipped for immediate career advancement but also positioned to thrive as adaptable and inclusive leaders in the contemporary business environment.”
The launch of the University’s first online undergraduate degree strengthens its long-standing commitment to widening participation and delivering flexible, high-quality online learning to a global community.