Oakswood College

ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (120 Credits)

The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business and Management is a UK Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to develop advanced knowledge and applied understanding of business and management at a higher academic and professional level.

It is intended for learners who have completed Level 4 study or who have relevant professional experience and are seeking to progress into supervisory, junior management, or higher education routes in business and management.

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

Qualification Overview

The qualification develops critical managerial capabilities including strategic thinking, financial analysis, people management, research skills, and evidence-based decision-making. Learners are encouraged to apply theory to real organisational contexts and evaluate business challenges using structured analytical approaches.

The programme includes both mandatory and optional units, allowing learners to develop a strong core understanding of global business, finance, people management, and research methods, while also specialising in areas such as marketing, entrepreneurship, operations, sustainability, business law, and organisational change.

Key Information

Course Details
Qualification	ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (120 Credits)
Level	5
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 optional specialist units selected in line with qualification requirements. Each unit is assessed through applied assignments that require learners to analyse business scenarios, evaluate information, and develop structured, evidence-based responses.

Units within this qualification

Unit Title	Type	Level
Mandatory Units (All 4 Must Be Completed)
Business Organisations in a Global Context	Mandatory	5
People Management	Mandatory	5
Finance for Managers	Mandatory	5
Research Project	Mandatory	5
Optional Units (Select credits to meet rules of combination)
Managing Communication	Optional	5
Marketing Principles and Practice	Optional	5
Managing Sustainability in an Organisation	Optional	5
Small Business Enterprise	Optional	5
Planning a New Business Venture	Optional	5
Business Law	Optional	5
Operations Management	Optional	5
Information for Strategic Decision-Making	Optional	5
Organisational Analysis and Change	Optional	5
Financial Systems and Auditing	Optional	5
Business Ethics	Optional	5

Teaching and Learning Approach

The programme is delivered through structured teaching blocks supported by tutor-led sessions, guided learning, case study analysis, independent research, and assignment preparation.

Each module is typically delivered over a 10-week teaching block. Learning is designed to promote applied understanding, encouraging learners to critically evaluate business practices and apply theoretical models to real organisational situations. Learners are expected to engage in independent study and demonstrate increasing autonomy in research, analysis, and academic writing at Level 5 standard.

Entry Requirements

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

Completion of an ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Business and Management or equivalent qualification, or
HNC/HND or equivalent Level 4 qualification in business or related fields, or
Relevant professional experience in a business or management role (subject to assessment)

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 assessed against ATHE learning outcomes and may achieve Pass, Merit, or Distinction grades. Assessment methods may include written reports, research-based tasks, case study analysis, presentations, and reflective evaluations.

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion, learners may progress to:

ATHE Level 6 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Business or Management
Final year of undergraduate degree programmes (subject to university entry requirements)
Employment in supervisory, junior management, or operational roles
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in business and management disciplines
Further professional development in leadership, strategy, and organisational management