How do top up degrees work?
This course is equivalent to 32 UCAS Tariff Points.
The Level 3 university foundation programme is a 60-credit qualification (equivalent to one A level) that teaches students key concepts and a range of management procedures required to work within a business.
The course has been specifically developed to provide students with the knowledge required to work effectively, both as individuals and in teams within a business. Being able to develop good business management skills is crucial for any company.
While completing the diploma, students will have access to various study resources, such as tutor support and webinars, a social learning forum, and additional materials to complete their graduate business course.
Upon completion of this course, students receive an OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies qualification which is fully regulated by Ofqual. Students will then have the opportunity to apply for admission onto a full undergraduate degree programme from a range of UK universities.
Alternatively, students can opt to study our Level 4/5 diploma in Business Management and then complete an undergraduate top-up at a range of UK universities.
This course is eligible for ELCAS funding.
*free laptop if you pay in full, excluding payment plans and ELCAS funded learners
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Students on our Business Studies course can complete a Level 3 (60 credits) OTHM diploma, designed to provide students with the skills needed to succeed in the Business industry.
The course is completed online and you can start at any time, it’s completely flexible. Each module consists of 40 hours of guided online learning, with an additional 30-50 hours worth of optional materials that include recommended exercises, readings, digital resources and self-test tasks.
To complete the course you’ll submit 6 online assignments at each level, and assignments are approximately 2,000-3,000 words each. Once you’ve passed your course, you’ll be awarded with an OTHM diploma and you’ll be able to top up your qualification to a bachelor’s degree at a range of UK universities.
During the Business Management course you’ll have access to 1-2-1 tutor support and webinars, social learning forums and additional materials to complete your diploma with ease. You can find out more about the support you’ll have available on our Student Resources page. You can also read about the academic credentials we meet and associations we’re part of to make sure you have the best learning experience.
This Level 3 diploma in Business Studies has 6 modules:
1. Introduction to Research and Academic SkillsThis module helps you develop essential academic skills such as researching, referencing, critical thinking, and writing. You’ll learn how to structure assignments, use academic sources, and communicate ideas clearly and effectively.
2. Using IT for BusinessExplore how IT tools and software are used in modern businesses. This module covers practical skills in spreadsheets, word processing, presentations, and databases, all focused on real-world business applications.
3. Introduction to Economics and AccountingGain a basic understanding of how economies function and how businesses manage their finances. You’ll explore topics like supply and demand, budgeting, financial records, and profit and loss.
4. Introduction to the Business EnvironmentLearn about the different types of businesses, their structures, and how external factors like laws and the economy affect them. This module also looks at stakeholders, business aims, and ethical considerations.
5. Introduction to MarketingDiscover the basics of marketing, including customer needs, market research, branding, and promotional strategies. You’ll learn how businesses attract and retain customers in competitive markets.
6. Introduction to Customer ServiceUnderstand the importance of delivering excellent customer service. This module covers communication skills, dealing with complaints, customer satisfaction, and how service impacts business success.
The level 3 diploma in Business Studies has 6 written assignments. The assignments are approximately 2,000-3,000 words each. Students are provided support on the modules and assignments via the ‘Tutor’ section of the learning platform.
The Assignment unit titles that students need to complete for the level 3 course are:
More information about the level 3 units can be found here Level-3-Diploma-in-Business-Studies.pdf
To enrol in our Level 3 Business Studies course, you must be at least 16 years old and have a full secondary education.
If you don’t have a full secondary education or the equivalent, you may also be able to enrol based on your work experience.
To find out more, talk to one of our helpful team members at: 0333 772 1158
Enrol with a £20 deposit and then £103.33 a month for 24 months, interest-free.
Students can make payment using one of the following methods:
Studying business management can lead to entry-level roles such as business analyst, management trainee, or marketing coordinator.
With experience, individuals can advance to mid-level positions like project manager, marketing manager, or operations manager.
Further progression can lead to senior roles such as director, vice president, or CEO.
Upon completing this course, students can progress to a full BA or BSc degree programme at a variety of UK universities, online or on campus.
Some examples include:
Coventry University
Anglia Ruskin University
London Metropolitan University
University of Derby
Middlesex University
OTHM Level 3 Business Studies
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Once you’ve enrolled in the Business Management Course, you’ll have access to our expert tutors, who bring years of experience to the table. Our friendly team is always available to offer advice and support, whether you have quick questions about a module topic or need detailed feedback on your assignments—we’re here to assist you!
Leading the course is Mike Donald, our Program Leader. Mike is a highly experienced professional with over 15 years of practical experience in the Business and Finance industry.
Jadine Briolas
My experience I would describe as an adventure. The studies and assignments were always exciting and intriguing to me. Whenever I did need the extra help, I would get it from the team without fail, it was just a breeze.
When I came across online business school, I was immediately attracted to it. It is not only affordable but very convenient as well. I work full time but at the same time have a passion for my studies and this is the only platform I came across that allowed me to pursue both.
Steffan Newton
I chose Online Business School because of the flexibility they offered to learning. I read previous reviews online and spoke to the school to ensure this was the best option for me.
The flexibility to study is great and the support received from the school is brilliant.
It’s really simple to enrol on our Business Studies course, it only takes a few moments and you can either enrol online or over the phone, it’s entirely up to you:
No, we like to keep things simple here at Online Business School, so you won’t need to go to an interview to enrol on our Business Studies course.
All you’ll need to do is complete a short application form to make sure you meet the criteria for the course, for example, you must have a full secondary education.
The duration of our diploma in Business Studies is completely flexible and entirely up to you – we allow 5 years to complete the course, which means you can work at a pace that suits you and your life.
You can also study the modules in any order at any time so you have complete control of your learning.
Our Business Studies course includes some great added extras to help you succeed, from 1-2-1 tutoring support and online learning resources to a FREE laptop and Student Membership card.
You don’t need any experience to enrol in our Level 3 Business Studies course, but you must be at least 16 years old and have a full secondary education.