OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management offers a structured, work-related programme of study with flexible delivery options and internationally recognised certification.

• Qualification Number: 610/0335/9 – approved and regulated by Ofqual

• 240 credits across 12 mandatory units (120 credits at Level 4, 120 credits at Level 5)

• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 2,400 hours with a minimum of 1,200 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)

• Equivalent to Higher National Diploma (HND) and Year 2 of a UK Bachelor's degree programme

• Flexible delivery: face-to-face, distance learning, and online study available

• Internal assessment by centre, externally verified by OTHM; graded as Pass/Fail

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is a specialist, work-related qualification designed to provide learners with a comprehensive depth of knowledge and understanding of key aspects within the business sector. The programme spans two academic years of full-time study, covering both Level 4 and Level 5 mandatory units, for a combined total of 240 credits equivalent to the first two years of a UK honours degree.

• Ofqual-regulated and globally recognised qualification

• 12 mandatory units structured across two progressive academic levels

• Combines theoretical frameworks with practical, real-world business application

• Develops skills in strategy, finance, marketing, HRM, business law, and entrepreneurship

• Equivalent to HND and Year 2 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree

• Provides eligibility for direct entry into Year 3 of a UK Bachelor's degree programme

Upon successful completion of the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management, learners will achieve the following official learning outcomes across all 12 mandatory units.

• Conduct academic research and construct evidence-based, logical, and valid academic arguments using critical thinking skills

• Analyse a business's internal and external environment using established frameworks such as SWOT, PESTLE, and Porter's Five Forces

• Demonstrate effective verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills in internal and external business contexts

• Prepare, interpret, and adjust financial statements and budgets for different types of businesses

• Understand leadership and management theories and assess own capacity to lead and manage teams effectively

• Evaluate the impact of globalisation on business strategy, structure, culture, and operational decision making

• Apply principles and concepts of business strategy including strategic options analysis, competitive positioning, and strategy development

• Understand the purpose, functions, and modern developments of human resource management including the impact of technology and flexible working

• Analyse the marketing planning process, buyer behaviour, and both internal and external factors affecting the marketing function

• Describe generic business law, legal and justice systems, and key business-related laws including consumer, contract, and tort law

• Use management accounting tools and techniques to solve business problems and support effective managerial decision making

• Develop a comprehensive business plan for a start-up, from conception to market, including financial, operational, and marketing planning

This qualification is designed for learners who are typically aged 18 and above and who wish to develop specialist knowledge and skills in business management, either to advance their career or to progress into further academic study.

• Learners holding a relevant Level 3 Diploma qualification or equivalent

• Individuals with GCE Advanced Level qualifications in two subjects or equivalent

• Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management or business experience

• Working professionals seeking to formalise their business management skills and knowledge

• Individuals aspiring to progress into supervisory, management, or leadership roles within private or public sector organisations

• Learners who wish to gain eligibility for direct entry into Year 3 of a UK Bachelor's degree programme

These qualifications are designed for learners typically aged 18 and above. Applicants are expected to meet at least one of the following entry criteria.

• A relevant Level 3 Diploma qualification, GCE Advanced Level in two subjects, or equivalent qualification

• Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (to be confirmed with the delivery centre prior to registration)

• Evidence of English language competency for learners not from a majority English-speaking country, in line with OTHM's English Language Expectations

All units within this qualification are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all specified learning outcomes.

• Written coursework assignments (primary method across all 12 mandatory units)

• Presentations (10-minute presentations required in select units including Academic Writing and Research Skills, Leading and Managing Teams, Marketing for Managers, and Business Start-up: Conception to Market)

• Portfolio of evidence (applicable in Communication in Business)

• Reflective log (applicable in Leading and Managing Teams, approximately 500 words)

Successful completion of the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management opens a wide range of academic and professional progression pathways.

• Progress to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Business Management

• Gain direct entry into Year 3 of a UK Bachelor's honours degree programme

• Access top-up and Master's degree programmes through OTHM's university progression partners

• Pursue management and leadership roles in private sector, public sector, or non-governmental organisations

• Undertake entrepreneurial ventures, supported by the business start-up and management accounting competencies developed during the programme