Level 5 Higher Diploma in Business Administration with General Studies (American Degree Programme)

Programme Overview

The Level 5 Higher Diploma in Business Administration with General Studies (ADP) is a uniquely structured qualification that combines a robust business administration core with a broad spectrum of general education studies. This American Degree Programme (ADP) is designed to provide learners with both the in-depth business knowledge required for a successful career and the holistic education typical of the US higher education system.

This programme serves as a direct pathway to a bachelor’s degree in the United States, with formal progression agreements in place with Westcliff University (California) and Lincoln University (California) . By completing this diploma, you can seamlessly transition into the third year of a US bachelor’s programme, making it an ideal choice for students seeking an internationally recognised education and a global career.

Programme Aims

• To provide an in-depth understanding and application of business administration to prepare learners for employment in the business sector.
• To offer a holistic education that incorporates a wider knowledge base in social sciences and humanities.
• To create a clear and structured progression pathway to US Bachelor’s degree programmes through formal articulation agreements with Westcliff University and Lincoln University.
• To equip learners with the critical thinking, analytical, and cross-cultural skills needed to operate in a global and competitive environment.

Programme Learning Outcomes

On completion of this programme, learners will be able to:

• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of management theories, current issues, and conceptual frameworks to guide their application within global organisations.
• Apply critical skills to investigate, evaluate, and analyse valid and relevant management issues and practices.
• Demonstrate command of a range of competencies relevant to cross-border management, including intercultural awareness and understanding.
• Exhibit a coherent body of knowledge on economic, ethical, environmental, legal, political, sociological, and technological factors affecting organisational strategy, behaviour, and management at local, national, and international levels.
• Acquire a more holistic education with wider knowledge and applications in the area of social sciences and humanities.

Programme & Curriculum Structure

This is a comprehensive programme offered in two distinct pathways, depending on your intended university progression.

Pathway 1: Westcliff University Progression Pathway

• Total Modules: 24 (14 Mandatory + 10 Electives)
• Total UK Credits: 310
• Total US Credits: 93

Pathway 2: Lincoln University Progression Pathway

• Total Modules: 25 (13 Mandatory + 12 Electives)
• Total UK Credits: 315
• Total US Credits: 94.5

Mandatory Units (14 Units | 15 UK Credits / 4.5 US Credits Each)

Note: For the Lincoln University pathway, only 13 of these 14 mandatory units are required, as Principles of Marketing is not part of the Lincoln University pathway alignment.

Elective Units (14 Units | 10 UK Credits / 3 US Credits Each)

• Westcliff Pathway: Choose any 10 units.
• Lincoln Pathway: Complete 12 of the 14 elective units, excluding Introduction to Sociology and Consumer Behaviour.

Programme Duration

• Westcliff Pathway: Minimum 2 years; Maximum 3 years.
• Lincoln Pathway: Minimum 2 years and 4 months; Maximum 3 years and 4 months.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they can benefit from the programme. The typical entry requirements are:

• Age: Normally at least 16 years old.
• Academic Qualification: Completion of High School or an equivalent qualification with a minimum cumulative grade point ratio (CGPR) of 2.0.

Equivalent Qualifications by Country

• English Language Proficiency: A minimum competency equivalent to IELTS 5.5, O Level English, or equivalent Credit Pass is required.

Mode of Delivery

The programme is delivered in two flexible modes to suit different learning styles and schedules:

1. Blended Learning (Mode A):
   1. Combines 8 hours of face-to-face lectures per unit with self-study using Online Learning Resources and online interactions with the Unit Leader.
2. Fully Online (Mode B):
   1. Offers 8 hours of asynchronous online classes, tutorials, and interaction per unit. Learning is supported by pre-recorded video lectures for each unit and extensive online resources.

Assessment & Grading

Assessment methods vary per unit but are designed to test both knowledge and practical application.

• Assessment Instruments: Units are assessed through a combination of Written Coursework (essays, reports, case analyses) and Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Assessment Structure: Each unit typically has two assessment components, often split 50% for a written assignment and 50% for an MCQ examination.
• Grading Structure:

Pricing: £9,900

Ready to Start Your Journey to a US Degree?

This programme offers a unique opportunity to gain a UK-accredited qualification while preparing for a seamless transfer to a top-tier university in the United States. Enrol today and take the first step toward a global career in business.