OTHM level 5 extended diploma in business management

Overview

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is designed to provide learners with a specialist, work-related program of study. It equips learners with a deep understanding of key aspects of the business sector, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Learners will complete Level 4 and Level 5 units, earning 120 credits per academic year, for a total of 240 credits. This qualification is equivalent to the first two years of a UK Bachelor’s honours degree.

At Level 4, learners will develop foundational knowledge in contemporary business topics, academic skills, business operations, global operations, communication, and leadership.

At Level 5, learners will apply their skills to real-world scenarios, gaining expertise in business strategy, human resources, marketing, business law, and management accounting. Learners will also explore the requirements for starting and managing a new business.

Upon successful completion, learners will acquire essential skills, technical terminology, and knowledge to progress to further studies or employment.

Entry Requirements

This qualification is intended for learners aged 18 and above.

Typical entry requirements include:

• A relevant Level 3 Diploma qualification or equivalent
• GCE Advanced Level qualifications in 2 subjects or equivalent
• Mature learners (21+ years) with relevant management experience (eligibility should be confirmed with the delivery centre before registration)

English Language Requirements
Learners from non-majority English-speaking countries must provide evidence of English language competency. More information can be found on the English Language Expectations page of the OTHM website.

Equivalences

OTHM qualifications at Level 4 and Level 5 are equivalent to:

• Higher National Diplomas (HND)
• Year 1 and Year 2 of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree programme

Qualification Structure

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management consists of 12 mandatory units:

• Total Credits: 240
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 2400 hours
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): Minimum 1200 hours

To achieve the qualification, learners must complete:

• 120 credits at Level 4 (6 units)
• 120 credits at Level 5 (6 units)

Level 4: Mandatory Units

1. Academic Writing and Research Skills (20 credits)
2. Business Operations (20 credits)
3. Communication in Business (20 credits)
4. Finance and Accounting (20 credits)
5. Leading and Managing Teams (20 credits)
6. Operating in a Global Context (20 credits)

Level 5: Mandatory Units

1. Principles and Concepts of Strategy (20 credits)
2. The Management of Human Resources (20 credits)
3. Marketing for Managers (20 credits)
4. Business Law for Managers (20 credits)
5. Management Accounting for Decision Making (20 credits)
6. Business Start-up: Conception to Market (20 credits)

Duration and Delivery

The qualification is designed to be completed over two academic years for full-time learners. However, flexible options are available for part-time and distance learners.

The programme is delivered through approved centres using a variety of methods, including face-to-face lectures, tutorials, seminars, and online learning.

Assessment and Verification

All units are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM.

The qualifications are criterion-referenced, meaning learners must meet all specified learning outcomes and assessment criteria to achieve a ‘pass’.

Learners must submit evidence demonstrating that they have met the standards and learning outcomes for each unit. Assessors will evaluate this evidence and provide an audit trail of their judgment.

Progression

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management offers numerous academic progression opportunities, including:

• OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Business Management
• Direct entry into Year 3 (final year) of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree programme

This qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), ensuring recognition for further education and career development.