OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is a UK-recognized qualification designed to equip learners with the core knowledge, skills, and understanding required to excel in the modern business environment. Covering key areas such as operations management, leadership, marketing, finance, and strategic planning, this diploma offers a strong foundation for those aiming to build a career in business or progress to higher academic qualifications. It is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their business acumen and step into managerial roles across various industries.
Why Choose this Qualification
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is a smart choice for anyone seeking to build a solid foundation in business and leadership. Here’s why this qualification stands out:
- Globally Recognized Qualification
Awarded by OTHM and regulated by Ofqual (UK), this diploma is recognized by employers and universities worldwide. - Comprehensive Business Curriculum
Covers a wide range of core business subjects such as marketing, finance, operations, leadership, and strategic management, giving you a well-rounded skillset. - Career-Ready Skills
Designed to meet the demands of today’s business world, the course focuses on practical knowledge and skills you can apply immediately in the workplace. - Flexible Learning Options
Study full-time, part-time, or online to suit your schedule—ideal for both students and working professionals. - Pathway to Higher Education
Successful completion enables progression to a Level 6 qualification or the final year of a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. - Enhanced Career Opportunities
Equips learners for a wide range of business roles such as team leader, operations manager, project coordinator, or entrepreneur.
Course Overview
Awarding Body: OTHM
Course Level: Level 5 Extended
Average Completion Time:
6 to 24 Months
Study Units : 12
Evidence & Assignment Based
Qualification Structure
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management qualification consists of 12 mandatory units, 240 credits, 2400 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and the recommended Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this qualification is a minimum of 1200 hours.
To achieve the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management, learners must achieve 240 credits, of which 120 credits are at Level 4 (6 units) and 120 credits are at Level 5 (6 units).
Level 4: 6 Mandatory units:
Level 5: 6 Mandatory units:
Who Should Take This Course
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is ideal for individuals who are looking to enhance their business knowledge and advance their career. This course is suitable for:
✅ Those Planning to Continue Their Studies by progressing to a Level 6 qualification or completing a bachelor’s degree in business management or related fields.
✅ Aspiring Business Leaders who want to gain key insights into business strategy, leadership, and management to take on managerial roles in the future.
✅ Recent Graduates looking to deepen their understanding of business practices and develop practical skills for a career in management.
✅ Current Professionals who are already working in business-related roles but want to formalize their knowledge and gain a recognized qualification to move into senior positions.
✅ Entrepreneurs looking to improve their skills in business operations, strategy, and management to help grow and manage their own business.
✅ Career Changers who want to transition into the business field and need a structured qualification to gain credibility and foundational knowledge.
✅ International Students who want a globally recognized qualification in business management to enhance their career prospects worldwide.
Course Benefits
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management offers numerous advantages for learners looking to advance their careers in business management:
Comprehensive Business Knowledge
Gain in-depth understanding of key business areas such as marketing, finance, human resources, leadership, and operations, preparing you for diverse roles in the business world.
Globally Recognized Qualification
This qualification is awarded by OTHM and regulated by Ofqual (UK), ensuring global recognition and enhancing your career prospects worldwide.
Career Progression
Equip yourself with the skills needed to pursue managerial and leadership roles in various sectors, including retail, finance, healthcare, and hospitality.
Pathway to Higher Education
Successful completion provides access to Level 6 qualifications or direct entry into the final year of a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, offering further academic growth.
Practical and Industry-Relevant Curriculum
The course is designed to reflect current industry trends, enabling you to apply learned theories and concepts directly to real-world business situations.
Flexible Learning Options
Study full-time, part-time, or online, allowing you to balance learning with work or other commitments.
Improved Leadership and Decision-Making Skills
Develop essential leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills necessary for effective management and business decision-making.
Enhanced Employability
With a focus on transferable business skills, this qualification will help you stand out to employers and give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management, applicants must meet the following entry criteria:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of registration.
Educational Background
A Level 3 qualification (such as A-Levels, an OTHM Level 3 Diploma, or an equivalent qualification) is required for entry into this course. Applicants who do not have formal qualifications but possess relevant work experience may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Work Experience
While prior work experience in a business or management-related role is not mandatory, it can be beneficial. Those with experience in leadership, team management, or business operations may have an advantage.
English Language Proficiency
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language competency. This can be evidenced by:
An IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent
Previous education completed in English
Other recognized English language qualifications or certificates (e.g., TOEFL, Cambridge English).
The Qualification Process
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the entire journey from pre-registration to certification:
1. Initial Assessment and Enrollment
- Application and Eligibility Check: To begin the process, you will need to complete an application form. The training provider will review your eligibility based on your work experience, current role, and relevant qualifications.
- Enrollment: Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will be enrolled in the program. You will receive information on the course structure, key requirements, and resources available to support your learning.
2. Course Structure and Content
- Unit-Based Learning: The qualification is made up of several units that focus on core topics in quality control, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, risk management, and continuous improvement. You will be required to complete all units and demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
- Work-Based Learning: As a work-based qualification, the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma emphasizes the application of learning in real-world scenarios. You will need to collect evidence of your competence by demonstrating how you have implemented quality systems and processes in your workplace.
3. Ongoing Support and Assessment
- Dedicated Assessor: Throughout the course, you will be assigned a qualified assessor who will guide you through the process. The assessor will provide ongoing support, review your progress, and offer feedback on your work.
- Assessments: You will be assessed via a combination of methods, including:
- Portfolio of Evidence: Collecting evidence from your workplace to show how you apply quality management techniques, compliance measures, and process improvements.
- Reflective Accounts: Writing reflective reports that describe your learning journey and how you’ve applied new skills in your role.
- Professional Discussions: Engaging in discussions with your assessor to demonstrate your understanding of key concepts and practices in quality control and assurance.
- Workplace Observation: In some cases, your assessor may conduct a direct observation of your work to ensure you meet the required standards.
4. Completion of All Required Units
- To achieve the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma, you must successfully complete all required units in the qualification. Each unit is designed to test your ability to manage and improve quality assurance and control systems within your workplace.
5. Final Review and Verification
- After completing all units and submitting your portfolio of evidence, your assessor will review your work to ensure it meets the required standards. This may involve revising some areas of your portfolio based on feedback.
- Quality Verification: Your assessor’s evaluation will be verified by an internal quality assurer to ensure consistency and fairness in the assessment process.
6. Awarding of the Qualification
- Once you have successfully completed all units and met the assessment criteria, the qualification will be awarded. You will receive Certification of the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management
7. Post-Qualification Support
After earning the diploma, you will be better equipped to take on senior roles in quality management. Many learners also benefit from continued support from the training provider, including access to professional development opportunities, industry networking events, and further qualifications.