Higher Diploma in Business Administration (Level 5)
Programme Overview
In today’s rapidly evolving global business landscape, there is an increasing demand for competent, knowledgeable professionals who can navigate the complexities of modern management. The Level 5 Higher Diploma in Business Administration is a comprehensive qualification designed to equip learners with an in-depth understanding of key business functions and the practical skills required for a successful career in the business sector.
This programme provides a robust theoretical foundation while fostering the development of critical and analytical thinking. It is ideal for individuals seeking to enter the business world at a supervisory or management level or for those who wish to progress their academic journey to a full bachelor’s degree. By integrating core business principles with contemporary topics like digital marketing and business analytics, this diploma prepares you for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st-century economy.
Programme Aims
The Higher Diploma in Business Administration is designed to:
Provide an in-depth understanding and application of business management principles.
Equip learners with the competencies needed for immediate employment in the business sector.
Offer a clear and recognised progression pathway to a bachelor’s degree in related fields such as Business Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, or International Business.
Programme Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this programme, learners will be able to:
Demonstrate a deep understanding of management theories and current issues, applying conceptual frameworks to real-world organisations in a competitive global environment.
Apply critical thinking skills to investigate, evaluate, and analyse valid and relevant management issues and practices.
Demonstrate a command of competencies relevant to cross-border management, including intercultural awareness and effective communication.
Exhibit a coherent body of knowledge on economic, ethical, environmental, legal, political, sociological, and technological factors affecting organisational strategy and behaviour at local, national, and international levels.
Programme & Curriculum Structure
The Level 5 Higher Diploma in Business Administration is a 120-credit qualification comprised of 6 mandatory modules, each worth 20 credits. To achieve the full award, students must successfully complete all modules.
Programme Modules
| Module Code | Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Module 1 | Entrepreneurship and Business Venturing | 20 |
| Module 2 | Digital Marketing Fundamentals | 20 |
| Module 3 | Operations and Project Management | 20 |
| Module 4 | International Business and Cross-Cultural Management | 20 |
| Module 5 | Business Analytics and Decision Making | 20 |
| Module 6 | Marketing and Consumer Behaviour | 20 |
| Total Credits | 120 |
Entry Requirements
Applicants are selected based on their potential to benefit from the programme.
Age Requirement: Applicants should normally be at least 16 years old.
Academic Requirement: Applicants must hold a Level 4 (RQF) Diploma or an equivalent qualification.
Prior Knowledge: No prior business knowledge is required to enrol on this programme.
Advanced Standing / Exemptions
Students with prior learning or qualifications may be eligible for exemptions or credit transfers through the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process.
Mode of Delivery
The programme is designed to be flexible and accessible, catering to the needs of working professionals and full-time students alike. It is offered in two modes:
Blended Learning (Mode A):
This mode combines 8 hours of face-to-face lectures per module with self-study using extensive Online Learning Resources and interactive online sessions with your Module Leader.
Fully Online (Mode B):
This mode offers complete flexibility through 8 hours of asynchronous online classes, tutorials, and interaction with your Module Leader. Learning is supported by pre-recorded video lectures for each module and online learning materials.
Assessment & Grading
Each module is assessed through two pieces of written coursework (e.g., essays, business reports). Each piece is weighted at 50% of the module mark.
Length: Each written coursework is between 1,800 and 2,000 words.
Format: Assignments must follow a prescribed format and use the Harvard Referencing System for citations.
Grading: Modules are graded as follows:
Distinction: 70% or over
Merit: 60% – 69%
Pass: 50% – 59%
Fail: Below 50%
Programme Duration
The programme offers two study pathways to accommodate different schedules:
Full Programme:
Minimum Duration: 6 months
Maximum Duration: 12 months
Students must complete all requirements within 12 months from the programme start date.
Top-Up Programme (for students with exemptions):
Minimum Duration: 2 months
Maximum Duration: 4 months
This option is for students who have been granted exemptions from 4 modules and are only required to complete the remaining 2 modules.
