ATHE Level 5 Combined Extended Diploma in Business and Management
Course Introduction
The ATHE Level 5 Combined Extended Diploma in Business and Management is a comprehensive 240-credit qualification that combines both Level 4 and Level 5 study.
Course Overview
The ATHE Level 5 Combined Extended Diploma in Business and Management is a comprehensive 240-credit qualification that combines both Level 4 and Level 5 study. Equivalent to the first two years of a UK bachelor’s degree, this course offers a progressive learning journey, preparing students for junior and middle management roles, as well as entry into the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
Through a structured blend of business, leadership, and finance-focused modules, learners gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive business environment. A key component is the mandatory Research Project at Level 5, which allows students to integrate and apply their learning in a practical, real-world context.
Course Overview
Course Objectives
Learning Objectives
- Provide a strong foundation in business operations, finance, marketing, and management.
- Equip learners with critical thinking, analytical, and decision-making skills.
- Develop leadership capabilities for managing teams, projects, and organizational change.
- Build expertise in global business contexts, sustainability, and business law.
- Prepare students for academic progression or mid-level business roles.
Entry Requirments
This qualification is designed for individuals aged 18 and above. The typical entry profile includes one of the following:
A GCE Advanced Level profile with achievement in two or more subjects, supported by 5 or more GCSEs at grade C/4 or above
Other Level 3 qualifications such as the ATHE Level 3 Diploma
An Access to Higher Education Certificate
Equivalent international qualifications
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not your first language, the recommended minimum proficiency is:
IELTS 5.5
CEFR Level B2
Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162+
PTE Academic 42–49
Eligibility Criteria
Intended Learner
Entry Profile
This course is ideal for:
High school graduates looking for a direct route to a university degree
Business professionals aiming to upskill for supervisory or middle management roles
International students seeking a UK-regulated pathway to university
Entrepreneurs or aspiring managers wanting to strengthen their business acumen
Key Insights
Summary-Key Takeaways
- 240 Credit Hours
- 16 Modules (8 at Level 4 and 8 at Level 5)
- Graded: Pass, Merit, Distinction
- 1,200 Guided Learning Hours
- 18 to 24 Months Duration
- Ofqual-Recognised Qualification by ATHE (UK)
- Flexible Delivery: Distance Learning, Blended, Part-Time or Full-Time
Course Summary
Study Modules
Mandatory Units
Level 4 Modules
Mandatory Units (4)
- The Business Environment – 15 Credits
- People in Organisations – 15 Credits
- Communication Skills for Business – 15 Credits
- Financial and Management Accounting Techniques for Managers – 15 Credits
Optional Units (Choose 4):
- Resource Management
- The Marketing Mix
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Managing a Work-Based Team Project
- Entrepreneurship
- Customer Relationship Management
- Administrative Services
- Managing Information and Knowledge
- Managing Operations
- Managing Quality
- Digital Communications
- All optional Level 4 units carry 15 credits.
Mandatory Units
Level 5 Modules
Mandatory Units (4):
- Business Organisations in a Global Context – 15 Credits
- Research Project – 15 Credits
- People Management – 15 Credits
- Finance for Managers – 15 Credits
Optional Units (Choose 4):
- Managing Communication
- Marketing Principles and Practice
- Manage Sustainability in an Organisation
- Small Business Enterprise
- Planning and New Business Venture
- Business Law
- Operations Management
- Information for Strategic Decision Making
- Organisational Analysis and Change
- Financial Systems and Auditing
- Business Ethics
- All optional Level 5 units carry 15 credits.