Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the transformation of the retail industry and the factors driving it with technology changing how people shop. 

The shifts in retail commerce over recent years are unparalleled, driven not only by global events but also by the rapid emergence of transformative technologies that quickly become expected by customers, challenging businesses to innovate and adapt continuously. 

A customer-centric approach to commerce has emerged as a critical factor, with customer journeys serving as the linchpin of a retailer's success. Ensuring connectivity, seamlessness and unity in customer experiences is paramount — as is technology that enables all of these things. It cannot be overstated how imperative it is for retailers to be flexible enough to wholeheartedly embrace what's new to grab customer interest and retain their loyalty, as well as outpace competitors.  The stakes are high: retailers who cannot adapt will, quite simply, fail. As the retail industry continues to evolve, leaders must not only learn from past experiences but also embrace transformative technologies to stay ahead. 

Our Course

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.  You will gain insight into how consumer behavior impacts retail decision-making, in the UK and globally.  Our comprehensive course covers all aspects of retail, with a distinct focus on the management of technology, people culture and ethical and sustainable considerations and a supportive learning experience through engagement with a leading UK retailer, giving you the chance to see what real life retailing is like in this transformative era. 

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• One Higher at Grade C or above in a relevant* subject; OR 
• NC or NQ qualification at SCQF Level 6 in a relevant business subject; OR 
• Other equivalent qualifications or experience. 

* relevant subjects include - English, Business, Economics, Art, Mathematics, Media or a science subject.

Additional selection requirements

You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

You'll study: 

• Contemporary Issues in Retailing.
• Store Design.
• Consumer Behaviour.
• Customer Experience.
• Managing People.
• Business & People Culture.
• Retail Buying.
• Retail Operations.
• E-Commerce.
• Artifical Intelligence.

After the course

Careers

On successful completion of the course, many of our students take the opportunity to move into the retail industry. Roles can be dynamic and varied but can often involve 

• Store Management & Supervisor roles.
• Retail Operational roles.
• Customer Experience.
• Brand Ambassadors.
• Visual Merchanding and Planning.
• Entrepreneurial Start-Up.

Continuing Study 

After studying this course, you can progress with direct 3rd year entry across variety of courses across Scotland and the UK in

• Business.
• Marketing.
• Fashion Communications.
• Branding & Promotions.
• Events & Tourism.

Teaching

How the course is taught

Assessment methods