Oakswood College

ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (120 Credits)

The ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Business and Management is a UK Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to develop a strong foundation in business principles and management practice.

It is intended for learners progressing from Level 3 study or those seeking structured preparation for higher education or junior management roles.

Overview & Key Info
What You Will Study
Teaching & Entry Requirements
Progression & Fees

Qualification Overview

The qualification combines core business knowledge with applied skills in analysis, communication, finance, people management and organisational understanding. Learners are required to apply theory to real or realistic business contexts, developing the academic and professional skills needed for further study or employment in business-related fields.

This qualification also provides a clear progression route into Level 5 study and supports entry into higher education programmes or professional development pathways in business and management.

Key Information

Course Details
Qualification	ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (120 Credits)
Level	4
Credits	120
Duration	12 months (Total Qualification Time: 1200 hours, including 480 Guided Learning Hours)
Intakes	September, January & April
Study Mode	Full-time / Blended Learning / Distance Learning
Delivery Location	On-campus at Oakswood College, Tricorn House, 7th Floor, 51–53 Hagley Road, Birmingham B16 8TP
Awarding Body	ATHE (Ofqual-regulated UK awarding organisation)
Assessment	Coursework-based (internally assessed assignments)

What You Will Study

This qualification includes four mandatory units and four optional units, providing both core knowledge and specialist business pathways. Each unit is assessed through structured assignments that require learners to demonstrate understanding, application, and analysis of business concepts in context.

Units within this qualification

Unit Title	Type	Level
Mandatory Units (All 4 Must Be Completed)
The Business Environment	Mandatory	4
People in Organisations	Mandatory	4
Financial and Management Accounting Techniques for Managers	Mandatory	4
Communication Skills for Business	Mandatory	4
Optional Units (Select Four)
Resource Management	Optional	4
The Marketing Mix	Optional	4
Corporate Social Responsibility	Optional	4
Managing a Work-based Team Project	Optional	4
Entrepreneurship	Optional	4
Customer Relationship Management	Optional	4
Administrative Services	Optional	4
Managing Information and Knowledge	Optional	4
Managing Operations	Optional	4
Managing Quality	Optional	4
Digital Communications	Optional	4

Teaching and Learning Approach

Teaching is delivered through structured learning blocks supported by tutor-led sessions, guided study, and independent learning.

Each module is typically delivered over a 10-week teaching block. Learning combines classroom or online delivery with assignment preparation, research tasks, case studies, and applied business scenarios. Learners are expected to take responsibility for independent study and engage actively with applied tasks throughout the programme.

Entry Requirements

This programme is designed for learners aged 18 and above. Typical entry profile includes:

GCE A Levels (2 or more subjects), or
5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or
ATHE Level 3 Diploma or equivalent qualification, or
Access to Higher Education Certificate, or
Relevant international qualifications

Applicants without formal qualifications may be considered based on relevant work experience and demonstrated ability to study at this level.

English language requirement (for non-native speakers): IELTS 5.5 or equivalent (CEFR B2 level). Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered where appropriate.

Assessment Methodology

Assessment is completed through internally assessed coursework assignments for each unit. Learners are evaluated against ATHE learning outcomes and assessment criteria and may achieve Pass, Merit, or Distinction grades. Assessment tasks may include written reports, case study analysis, reflective tasks, and presentations where appropriate.

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion, learners may progress to:

ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business and Management
ATHE Level 5 qualifications in related management pathways
Second year of university degree programmes (subject to institution requirements)
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in business-related fields
Employment in junior management, administration, operations, or business support roles
Apprenticeship or professional development routes in business and management