OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Business Management

The Level 5 Diploma in Business Management is an Ofqual-regulated, 120-credit qualification designed to develop advanced knowledge of business practice and management. It provides a foundation for further study and may support entry to the final year of a relevant three-year UK bachelor’s degree, subject to the receiving university’s admissions requirements.

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The programme builds on learners’ existing knowledge of business and management, with a focus on strategic thinking and informed decision-making. It examines how organisations develop strategy, manage their people, market their products and services, meet legal obligations and use financial information to guide their activities. 

Learners also bring together knowledge from across these subjects to consider the practical requirements of starting a business and preparing a viable business plan. The diploma is suitable for those seeking to develop a career in business, pursue an entrepreneurial idea or progress to further academic study.  

Attribute Details
Qualification title OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Business Management
Qualification number 610/1527/1
Awarding organisation
Regulator Ofqual
Academic level RQF Level 5
Credit value 120 credits
Total Qualification Time 1,200 hours
Guided Learning Hours 600 hours
Typical full-time duration One academic year
Assessment Coursework assessed internally by the centre and externally verified by OTHM

OTHM describes qualifications at RQF Level 5 as academically comparable to a Foundation Degree, a Higher National Diploma and the second year of a three-year UK bachelor’s degree.

  1. Principles and Concepts of Strategy (20 credits)
  2. The Management of Human Resources (20 credits)
  3. Marketing for Managers (20 credits)
  4. Business Law for Managers (20 credits)
  5. Management Accounting and Decision Making (20 credits)
  6. Business Start-up; Conception to Market (20 credits)

All six units are mandatory and together account for the qualification’s 120 credits. 

The qualification is typically designed for learners aged 18 or over. Applicants would normally have at least one of the following: 

  • A relevant Level 4 diploma or equivalent qualification.  
  • GCE Advanced Level passes in three subjects, or an equivalent qualification.  
  • Relevant management experience if aged over 21. Applicants seeking entry on this basis should discuss their experience with LSMM before registering. 

Applicants from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency, ideally with an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent. 

Outcomes

On successful completion of the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Business Management, learners will have developed business knowledge and practical management skills, enabling them to:

  • Apply strategic principles to business planning and organisational development.
  • Understand approaches to managing human resources and supporting employee performance.
  • Apply marketing principles to meet customer needs and business objectives.
  • Understand legal considerations that influence business and management decisions.
  • Use management accounting information to support planning and decision-making.
  • Explore how to develop a business idea and take it from conception to market.

These skills support further study and professional development in business and management.

Progression

Successful learners may:

  • Progress to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Business Management to continue more advanced study in the subject.
  • Apply for entry to the final year of a relevant three-year UK bachelor’s degree, where the receiving university accepts the qualification and the applicant meets its admissions requirements.
  • Apply the knowledge gained to employment and professional development, supporting business and management responsibilities.

University admission is determined by the receiving institution. Applicants should check the requirements of their intended degree programme before applying.

The diploma can support learners seeking to develop their careers in areas such as: 

  • Business development  
  • Operations and team supervision  
  • Human resource management  
  • Marketing co-ordination  
  • Commercial or business analysis  
  • Entrepreneurship  

The qualification develops relevant knowledge, while eligibility for a particular role will also depend on professional experience and the employer’s requirements. 

Application process

  1. Submit Your Application: Submit your application online via our application form on the website
  2. Application Review: Your application and supporting documents will be reviewed within one week of receipt
  3. Receive Your Offer: Upon a successful assessment, you will receive an acceptance letter.
  4. Accept the Acceptance Letter: Review the acceptance letter, sign it, and send it back to LSMM admissions.
  5. Fee Deposit: Deposit the fee as per the payment schedule 
  6. Induction: You will be informed about the commencement of your cohort and induction date. Attend the induction session and start the programme. 

For More Information

Ofqual Regulated Qualifications

Programmes regulated by OFQUAL (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, Govt of UK), ensuring recognised UK standards and international credibility

Flexible Study Options

Study online, blended, or part-time with flexible schedules including weekend and evening classes designed for working professionals and adult learners.

Career-Focused Learning

Programmes designed to develop practical workplace skills aligned with current industry requirements, globally.

University Progression Pathways

Learners can progress to university degree programmes in the UK and internationally.