Extended Diploma in Business and Management

Undergraduate - Level 4 & 5

Programme Overview

The Level 4 & 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management combines our Level 4 and Level 5 diplomas into one continuous programme. Learners first build a strong foundation in organisational communication, leadership, financial awareness, and operations, then progress to advanced topics such as business development, decision-making, customer management, and risk. With an emphasis on practical application and real-world scenarios, the programme is ideal for learners aiming to move into management roles or pursue further academic study.

Correspondence

Equivalent to the first and second years of a 3-year Bachelor’s degree in the UK and comparable to the first two years of undergraduate studies internationally (US, Canada, Asia, and Europe).

Aims of the Programme

The programme aims to:

  • Equip learners with essential business knowledge and practical management skills.
  • Develop the ability to analyse, evaluate, and apply business concepts in real-world organisational contexts.
  • Foster a deeper understanding of complex organisational challenges and effective response strategies.
  • Enhance critical decision-making, strategic planning, and risk management skills essential for management roles.
  • Prepare learners for further study, including the final year of a Bachelor’s degree.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, learners will be able to:

  • Apply effective communication strategies within business settings.
  • Demonstrate understanding of financial management principles, including budgeting and reporting.
  • Exhibit leadership skills essential for managing teams and influencing organisational outcomes.
  • Develop operational plans, manage resources, and enhance productivity.
  • Assess and respond to the changing business environment.
  • Make effective business decisions in complex scenarios.
  • Develop and implement strategies for organisational growth.
  • Understand customer management principles and their impact on business success.
  • Apply risk management techniques to organisational planning.
Duration
  • Full-Time: 2 Years (1 Year per level)
  • Part-Time: 4 Years (2 Years per level)
  • Maximum Completion: 5 Years from Enrolment per level
Mode of Delivery
  • Distance Education
  • Self-Paced Learning
  • Course Materials: Video and Text Resources

Admission Requirements

  • Typical Age: 18+
  • Entry Point: Learners enrol at Level 4. Completing Level 4 then meets the entry requirement for the Level 5 stage.
  • Entry Requirements: Applicants are expected to have completed a Level 3 qualification (e.g., A-levels) or possess relevant work experience in business.
  • International Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may include:
    • High school diploma or recognised pre-university certifications (e.g., Grade 12 in Asia, Senior Certificate in Africa, EQF Level 4 in Europe, or a high school diploma in the US/Canada).
  • English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS 6.0, CEFR level B2, or equivalent.
  • Additional Guidance: For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

  • Total Credits: 240 ECTS (120 ECTS at Level 4 and 120 ECTS at Level 5)
  • Modules: 12 mandatory modules, six at each level, each worth 20 credits.

Level 4 Core Modules

  1. Communication in Organisations (20 Credits): Focuses on communication strategies and organisational behaviour to improve collaboration.
  2. Leadership and the Organisation (20 Credits): Explores leadership styles, roles, and strategies to manage team performance effectively.
  3. Financial Awareness (20 Credits): Covers financial literacy, including budgeting and basic financial reporting techniques.
  4. Managing Change (20 Credits): Teaches change management methods and prepares students for implementing organisational transformations.
  5. Business Operations (20 Credits): Focuses on operational planning, resource management, and quality control for productivity enhancement.
  6. Developing Teams (20 Credits): Examines team dynamics, development, and cohesion strategies to meet organisational objectives.

Level 5 Core Modules

  1. Responding to the Changing Business Environment (20 Credits): Focuses on adapting to dynamic market conditions and implementing responsive business strategies.
  2. Effective Decision Making (20 Credits): Teaches analytical and problem-solving skills crucial for informed decision-making in business.
  3. Business Development (20 Credits): Covers strategies for growth, innovation, and sustaining competitive advantage in the market.
  4. Business Models and Growing Organisations (20 Credits): Examines various business models and approaches to scaling operations effectively.
  5. Customer Management (20 Credits): Focuses on building customer relationships and improving satisfaction as a strategy for business success.
  6. Risk Management and Organisations (20 Credits): Provides techniques for identifying, evaluating, and managing risks in business operations.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you’ll develop. See the full curriculum below.

View Curriculum

Assessment and Regulations

Assessment Approach

The programme is assessed through a mix of assignments, case studies, projects, and exams that test both theoretical understanding and practical skills:

  • Written Assignments: Each unit includes assignments focused on the application of business management theories.
  • Exams: Final exams test comprehension of core principles and advanced business concepts.
  • Projects and Case Studies: Practical exercises and real-world business scenarios to enhance decision-making and leadership abilities.
Grading System

Grades are awarded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction:

  • Pass: 40%-59%
  • Merit: 60%-69%
  • Distinction: 70% and above
Completion Requirements

Learners must pass all twelve units by achieving at least 40% in each. All assessments undergo internal moderation and external verification by the Awarding Body for quality assurance.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:
  • Advance to our progression course, the Level 6 in Business Administration.
  • Final year of a Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field at a partner university, subject to acceptance.
Employment Opportunities:

This programme prepares learners for roles such as:

  • Business Analyst
  • Operations Manager
  • Customer Relationship Manager
  • Project Supervisor
Work-Based Learning:
  • Practical projects simulate real-world settings, providing hands-on experience and skills applicable across various industries.
When you enrol in our Level 4+5 bundle, you’ll start on the same course pathway for both levels. If you wish to change your Level 5 route after registration, just reach out to Student Services—we’re here to guide you toward the best fit.

View Progression Routes

Extended Diploma in Business and Management

£11,920

  • Category

    Undergraduate
  • Level

    Level 4 & 5
  • Awarding Body

    ATHE
  • Code

  • Credits

    240 ECTS
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