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: 28 (14 Mandatory + all 14 Electives)
Total UK Credits: 350
Total US Credits: 105
Mandatory Units (14 Units | 15 UK Credits / 4.5 US Credits Each)
| No. | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Marketing Management |
| 2 | Operations Management |
| 3 | Intercultural Management |
| 4 | People and Organisation |
| 5 | Internet Marketing |
| 6 | Managing People |
| 7 | Business Accounting |
| 8 | Business Economics |
| 9 | Principles of Marketing |
| 10 | Principles of Management |
| 11 | Business Numeracy and Finance |
| 12 | Information Systems in Business |
| 13 | Business English |
| 14 | Business Law |
Elective Units (14 Units | 10 UK Credits / 3 US Credits Each)
Westcliff Pathway: Choose any 10 units.
Lincoln Pathway: Complete all 14 units.
| No. | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| 15 | Managerial Accounting |
| 16 | International Business Environment |
| 17 | College Composition |
| 18 | Academic Writing |
| 19 | College Algebra |
| 20 | Introduction to Sociology |
| 21 | Introduction to Psychology |
| 22 | Introduction to Communication |
| 23 | Introduction to Environmental Studies |
| 24 | Human Geography |
| 25 | Introduction to Politics |
| 26 | Media and Culture |
| 27 | Consumer Behaviour |
| 28 | Entrepreneurship |
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
| Country | Minimum Entry Requirement |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Level 2 (QCF) Diploma or 5 GCSEs at grade C and above |
| China | Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma with a minimum grade of 70% (B) in the Huikao / Academic Proficiency Test |
| Hong Kong | Minimum HKDSE 2-2-2 or 48 UCAS points |
| Sri Lanka | 2 Sri Lankan GCE Advanced Level (A/L) passes |
| Malaysia | 5 SPM credits at grade C and above OR 2 STPM Principal Passes at grade C and above |
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:
Blended Learning (Mode A):
Combines 8 hours of face-to-face lectures per unit with self-study using Online Learning Resources and online interactions with the Unit Leader.
Fully Online (Mode B):
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:
| Marks | LEB Classification |
|---|---|
| 70 – 100 | DISTINCTION |
| 60 – 69 | MERIT |
| 50 – 59 | PASS |
| 49 and below | FAIL |
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.
