Professional Diploma in Business Administration (PDBA)
SCQF Level 11 | 120 Credits | Post-Degree Qualification (EQF Level 7)
London Examinations Board Qualification listed on the SCQF Framework.
Fast-track your leadership career – Complete in as little as 6 months (up to 12 months maximum). Designed for graduates and / or experienced professionals seeking senior managerial roles.
Why Choose the PDBA?
The 21st‑century business environment demands competent, agile, and ethical leaders. This Professional Diploma equips you with advanced knowledge across all core business functions, enabling you to lead with confidence in a dynamic global economy.
Programme Aims
Deepen your strategic understanding – Study organisations, their management, and the external contexts that shape them.
Accelerate your career – Develop professional‑level skills for senior managerial and leadership positions.
Solve complex problems creatively – Apply business knowledge systematically to improve leadership practice.
Become a lifelong learner – Work with self‑direction and originality, contributing to business and society.
What You Will Gain (Learning Outcomes)
Upon successful completion, you will be able to:
✅ Master management theories – Critically understand and apply conceptual frameworks within organisations.
✅ Excel in key business functions – Lead effectively in marketing, finance, operations, and human capital management.
✅ Analyse and solve complex problems – Use a range of tools and techniques for decision‑making in interrelated business scenarios.
✅ Conduct independent research – Investigate and evaluate management issues with critical and analytical skills.
✅ Lead ethically and strategically – Demonstrate initiative, insight, responsibility, and ethical leadership in shaping strategic agendas.
Programme Structure – 8 Core Modules (120 SCQF Credits)
Each module is worth 15 credits and is assessed by a 3,000 (+/- 10 %) word Management Report (e.g., Business Plan, Strategic Plan, Research Proposal). All reports follow a professional format with Harvard referencing.
| Module | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship | Create a compelling business plan; learn opportunity spotting, innovation management, and financial forecasting. |
| Managing Business Strategy | Develop a strategic plan; analyse external/internal environments using macroeconomics and strategic models. |
| Managing Human Capital | Design a human resource planning strategy; align workforce management with long‑term corporate success. |
| Marketing Management | Formulate a marketing strategy and plan; use SWOT, PESTEL, Porter’s Five Forces to define market position. |
| Managing Operations | Produce a strategic operations management plan; integrate business analytics (descriptive, predictive, prescriptive). |
| Leading Organisations | Write a management report on leadership and transformation; empower teams and drive strategic change. |
| Financial Management | Complete a financial task analysis; evaluate investment projects, capital structure, and risk management. |
| Business Research Methodology | Prepare a research proposal; learn research paradigms, literature review, data collection, and ethics. |
Assessment is 100% coursework – no examinations. Each module requires one individual written report.
Who Is This For? – Entry Requirements
We welcome ambitious professionals from diverse backgrounds. Admission is based on evidence that you will succeed and benefit from the programme.
| Degree holders | A Bachelor’s degree in any subject from a recognised institution. |
| Professional qualification holders | Equivalent to a degree + minimum 2 years’ work experience. |
| Mature candidates (Diploma level) | Diploma and 6+ years’ work experience (at least 2 years at a supervisory/managerial level). |
| Mature candidates (No Diploma) | Only 8+ years’ work experience (at least 3 years at a supervisory/managerial level). |
English Language Proficiency – Must be demonstrated to participate in an English‑taught programme.
Advanced Standing (APL) – Credit transfer or exemptions considered on a case‑by‑case basis.
Flexible Delivery Modes – Study Your Way
Choose the mode that fits your lifestyle and commitments. Both options include full online learning resources and tutor support.
Induction workshop (pre‑recorded video) covers e‑learning skills, academic expectations, and independent learning – no assessment.
Mode A – Blended Learning (Via Approved Centres)
8 hours of face‑to‑face lectures per module
Supported by self‑study using the Online Learning Portal
Direct interaction with Programme Tutors
Mode B – Fully Online
8 hours of asynchronous classes (pre‑recorded video lectures)
Dedicated Programme Tutor to answer questions
Ideal for working professionals or graduates looking for advancement.
Programme Structure
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum duration | 6 months |
| Maximum duration | 12 months (full programme) / 4 months (with APL exemptions) |
| Grading | Distinction (70%+), Merit (60‑69%), Pass (50‑59%), Fail (<50%) |
| Resits | Maximum two resits per module; must be completed within 2 months of results release |
| Compensation | Marginal fail (45‑49%) may be compensated – max 2 modules |
| Extensions | 1‑week extension possible with valid reason (request 10 days before deadline) |
| Plagiarism | Strict policy – training provided in academic conventions |
Ready to Lead?
The PDBA is more than a diploma – it’s a strategic investment in your future. Whether you aim to climb the corporate ladder, launch your own venture, or transform your organisation, this programme gives you the tools, frameworks, and confidence to succeed.
📅 Intakes: Multiple intakes per year
🌐 Mode: Blended or fully online
🎓 Awarded by: London Examinations Board
Contact us or apply online today.