Contemporary Retail BA Honours - Courses | University of Westminster, London

Course Overview

UK Fees £9,250 *

International Fees £17,000 *

Duration 3 or 4 years

* Price per academic year

Course summary

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and ever-shifting consumer behaviours, the demand for individuals equipped with the expertise to navigate the evolving retail landscape has increased. Our innovative curriculum is designed to meet this demand head-on.

On our Contemporary Retail BA, you’ll gain insight into how customer behaviour impacts retail decision-making, in the UK and globally. Nestled in the heart of central London, the epicentre of the nation's retail industry, our program will empower you with the strategic acumen essential for driving organisations and contributing to the broader economy.

Our comprehensive course covers all aspects of retail, with a distinct emphasis on three key pillars: technology, innovation and ethical considerations. We believe in fostering a mindful approach to commercial strategies that not only prioritise profit but also centre on people and the planet.

The course can be uniquely tailored to your interests and aspirations, with specialisations available across various retail sectors, including fashion, luxury, sports and leisure and grocery retail. But we don't just stop at theory. We’re dedicated to providing you with authentic learning experiences through partnerships with leading retailers, giving you the chance to apply your skills in real-world workplace settings, enriching your knowledge with practical expertise.

Additionally, between your second and third year of study, you'll also have the opportunity to spend a year in industry applying your knowledge in a real-work environment or gain international experience with a year studying abroad.

Be empowered to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of the retail world, shaping its future with confidence.

Top reasons to study with us

Experience real-world learning, through partnerships with local and industry-leading retailers, enabling you to apply your skills in authentic workplace settings
Learn from experienced retail practitioners with extensive industry experience alongside retail and digital academic specialists, in the epicentre of UK retail
Delve into contemporary issues and digital innovation within retail and learn how to market traditional high-street stores as well as manage evolving channels including digital and social media shopping channels
Experience innovative learning and assessment methods that allow you to learn in different ways
Be equipped with sought-after skills and knowledge in retail, business and marketing practice to gain a competitive edge and become a mindful leader
Put theory into practice on a year-long work placement or gain international experience studying abroad
Cultivate your creativity and refine your digital skills with access to our dedicated digital marketing lab, Switch 23

Course structure

This course is designed to provide you with a well-rounded education in the world of retail.

Our innovative teaching methods combine traditional lectures with hands-on experience, immersing you in cutting-edge technologies like AI and digital solutions, essential for the evolving retail industry. We'll equip you with proficiency in industry-standard software such as Microsoft and Adobe Creative Cloud, ensuring you're job-ready upon graduation.

Collaboration with industry partners means you'll tackle real-world challenges through live client briefs, simulating authentic work environments.

The following subjects are indicative of what you’ll study on this course.

In Year 1, you’ll gain an understanding of contemporary retail, mastering key concepts, frameworks, and theories that serve as building blocks for your course. You’ll also develop research and investigative skills to analyse strategies and propose solutions in different retail contexts.

Subjects of study include:

Digital Marketing Essentials
Fundamentals of Marketing
Leadership, Innovation and Organisations
Marketing Research and Data Analytics
Retail Essentials

You’ll also have the chance to tailor your course by choosing an elective module.

Credit Level 4

In Year 2, you’ll hone your specialist retail skills and generate innovative ideas through in-depth analysis and evaluation of challenges and issues related to Contemporary Retail.

Subjects of study include:

Category and Channel Management
Consumer Insights
Retail Omni Channel and E-commerce Design

You’ll also choose between a range of optional modules such as Contemporary PR Management, Fashion Retailing Strategies, Finance for Marketing Managers and Social Media Marketing. You will also have the opportunity to study a module from other parts of the University, including a foreign language.

Alternatively, in place of the option modules listed above, you may be able to take the WBS Study Abroad Experience (subject to eligibility) or the WBS Work Experience.

Credit Level 5

Between Years 2 and 3 (Levels 5 and 6), you may choose to undertake either a professional placement year in the UK or an international experience year.

Professional experience

You’ll have the option to take a placement year in industry in the UK. During the year, you’ll identify goals to work towards achieving whilst on placement; carry out research to develop awareness of the retail business sector you are working in, using a range of data sources; familiarise yourself with a range of retailer techniques and processes, which help effectively deliver key initiatives and retail business objectives.

International experience

Alternatively, you may choose to undertake an international experience year at one of our partner overseas institutions. During the year, you’ll study and reside in the country of a host institution. The content of your study is agreed through a Learning Agreement between you, the home institution and Westminster Business School.

Find out more about the costs involved in taking a study abroad or placement year.

In Year 3, you’ll build on your critical review skills and be able to apply a comprehensive body of knowledge related to contemporary retail. You’ll also critically evaluate concepts and draw evidence from diverse sources to inform judgement in complex situations.

Subjects of study include:

Contemporary Selling and Sales Management
Customer Experience
Final Major Project
International Market Planning and Strategy

You’ll also choose between a range of optional modules such as Digital Business Innovations, Leisure and Lifestyle Retail Marketing, Luxury Brand Management, Purchasing Management and Sustainability Marketing, or learn a foreign language.

Credit Level 6

Programme specification

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

Prospectus

Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.

Request a prospectus

Get in touch

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

[email protected]

Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

Open days

Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

Next open day

Saturday 15 June On campus

Book Now

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Careers

The Contemporary Retail BA will unlock a range of career opportunities in areas such as customer insights, brand and marketing management, trade marketing and sales, retail management, digital management, and more.

The University's Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.

Build a global network

Build a global network and develop your own professional online ‘brand’.

Kickstart your career

Learn how to use social media in your job hunt or LinkedIn to kickstart your career.

Develop your CQ

Develop your cultural intelligence – or ‘CQ’ – studying alongside students and staff representing more than 100 nationalities.

Industry links

The Contemporary Retail BA course team collaborates with industry partners to provide live client briefs, simulating real work environments. Work- based and experiential learning are integral to the curriculum, enhancing employability. This approach allows for innovative teaching methods such as the flipped classroom, promoting active and engaging learning.

Job roles

This course will prepare you for roles in a variety of areas, including:

Advertising and marketing manager
Customer experience manager
Digital channels specialist
Retail manager
Retail media planner
Retail operations manager
Sales and marketing manager
Visual merchandiser

Graduate employers

Graduates from the Business School have found employment at organisations including:

Jimmy Choo
McDonald’s
Tesco
Unilever

Westminster Employability Award

Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.

The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.

Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.

Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.

International Opportunities

Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.

Opportunities could include:

Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
Attending an international summer school or field trip
Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad

International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.

Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.

Students working and studying internationally

Course Leader

More about me

Nicholas Sanders

Senior Lecturer

I began my journey at Westminster six years ago, following a two-decade career in Marketing and Retail, with senior roles at marketing agencies, Tesco and Co-op. My work with FMCG brands and retail giants led to numerous accolades as an integral part of exceptional creative teams.

At Tesco and Co-op, I drove transformative initiatives, including a pivotal in-store rebranding for Co-op, boosting commercial growth. Simultaneously, I have managed a prosperous property and holiday let business and established my consultancy firm.

My transition into education evolved from crafting training courses for the companies I served, leading to teaching roles at the Institute of Promotional Marketing (IPM), Boston University (USA), and Regents University.

With a PG Certificate in Teaching and Leadership and Management qualifications, I've become a full-time lecturer at the University of Westminster, driven by a passion to shape future success stories in Marketing, Business and Retail.

More about me

Embrace the adventure of knowledge, chart your course in Retail Marketing and discover the limitless possibilities that await you. Your degree is not just a path; it's a journey towards shaping the future of retail excellence.

Course Team

Why study this course?

Fantastic location

Based on our Marylebone Campus, you can enjoy the benefits of studying in a major global city and at the centre of UK retail.

Practical and transferrable skills

Our degree gives you the skills to pursue a management career in not only retail but any sector.

Build connections

Build connections with business and retail organisations, peers, and future business leaders.

A levels – BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points)
T levels – 112 UCAS Tariff points
International Baccalaureate – 112 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis
BTEC Extended Diploma – DMM
BTEC Diploma – D*D*
Access – 112 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course

In addition to one of the above, you should have:

GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher Level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4

If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.

We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.

View more information about our entry requirements and the application process.

International Baccalaureate – 112 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on Country-specific entry requirements
We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide International Foundation Certificate courses for students who don’t meet our entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out about a range of university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.

More information

Learn new skills

Use industry standard software

Build proficiency in industry-standard software such as Microsoft and Adobe Creative Cloud.

Enhance your communication skills

Learn to communicate and work effectively to a high professional standard.

Improve your problem-solving skills

Improve your problem-solving and business diagnostic skills to better understand and tackle business issues.

Fees and Funding

UK
INTERNATIONAL

UK tuition fee: £9,250 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Funding

As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.

Find out about undergraduate student funding options.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme

If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.

International student funding

Find out about funding for international students.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

Westminster Business School blog

Read our blog and get an insight into life and studies at Westminster Business School.

Visit the WBS blog

Facilities

The Learning Platform

Lecture theatres

Library

Bloomberg Financial Market Suite

Digital Marketing Lab

Meeting spaces

Cafe

Teaching and assessment

How you'll be taught

Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:

Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision

Year

24%76%

5%10%85%

24%76%

Scheduled hoursIndependent studyPlacement

How you'll be assessed

Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.

Assessments typically fall into two broad categories:

Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation

Year

25%75%

100%

34%66%

PracticalCoursework

Data from the academic year 2023/24

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course Location

Our Marylebone Campus has benefitted from a multi-million-pound refurbishment resulting in new workshops, digital studios and development of the Marylebone Library. The campus is home to Westminster Business School and our award-winning Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.