The Edexcel BTEC Level 4 HNC in Business provides a specialist work-related programme of study that covers the key knowledge, understanding and practical skills required in the business sector and also offers particular specialist emphasis through the choice of specialist units. It is a nationally recognised qualification offering career progression and professional development for those already in employment and opportunities to progress into higher education. The HNC is offered as a 1 year, full-time study programme and learners achieving the HNC can progress first to a BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma which offers a great degree of specialisation and then potentially to degree level.

A key progression path for Edexcel BTEC HNC and HND learners is to the second or third year of a degree or honours degree programme, depending on the match of the Edexcel BTEC Higher National units to the degree programme in question. The Level 4 HNC in Business offers a progression route for learners who are employed in the business sector. Learners studying the Level 4 HNC will be able to progress onto the HND in Business which allows more specialisation; this then allows progression to degrees in business subjects.