DCG Certificate in Business and the Visitor Economy
This course is designed as an entry-level pathway for students interested in the vibrant worlds of local tourism, hospitality and corporate business. The DCG Level 1 Certificate in Business and the Visitor Economy focuses on building foundational professional skills while exploring the relationship between business and the visitor economy.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This course is specifically designed for:
- School leavers: students who have finished Year 11 and want a practical, vocational course.
- Level 1 learners: students who prefer “learning by doing” and want to build their English, maths and digital skills alongside knowledge of a professional subject.
Entry Requirements
Students must have at least grade 3 or 2 in GCSE English Language or GCSE Maths, plus two other GCSEs at grade 2/3.
What will you learn?
- Introduction to the Visitor Economy
- Customer Service
- Enterprise and Entrepreneurship in Business and the Tourism/Visitor Economy
- Recruitment, Selection and Employment
- Sustainability in the Business and Visitor Economy Sector
- Planning a Local Event
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered face to face on-site.
Learning will be:
- through practical, hands‑on tasks
- by completing assignments, projects, case studies and presentations
- by developing real business skills such as teamwork, meeting deadlines, problem solving and communication
- through independent research and responsibility
- connected to real businesses and future careers in business or the visitor economy
What will you need to bring with you?
Basic Learning Equipment
- Pen, pencils and highlighters
- Notebook or folder for class notes
- A4 paper for written tasks
- Headphones for research or digital lessons
- A calculator
Digital Access – much of the coursework involves research, assignments and presentations so you will need:
- A laptop or access to a computer
- Microsoft 365 tools (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams)
- Internet access for research and coursework submission
Professional Attitude and Preparedness
- Willingness to take part in group work
- Readiness to present ideas
- Ability to meet deadlines
- An organised mindset (ongoing coursework)
How will you be assessed?
The course is assessed by completing coursework/assignments.
GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language: final exam
Where next?
Successful completion of this course opens several doors:
- Education: progression to the BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Business Enterprise, BTEC Level 2 Award in Travel and Tourism, or another Level 2 programme at DCG.
- Apprenticeships: entry-level apprenticeships in Customer Service, Business Administration, Marketing or Hospitality.
- Employment: junior roles such as reception assistant, tourism information volunteer, retail assistant, or event support staff.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: April 24, 2026 8:51 am
