L5 Extended Diploma in Business Management - OTHM

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L5 Extended Diploma in Business Management - OTHM
Instructor Adam Khan
Last Update July 11, 2026
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L5 Extended Diploma in Business Management - OTHM

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management equips learners with the practical knowledge, leadership skills, and business expertise needed to succeed in today's dynamic business environment. Covering key areas such as leadership, finance, operations, customer management, business development, and strategic decision-making, the qualification provides a strong foundation for career progression or progression to the final year of a UK bachelor's degree.

Course Information

  • Qualification Level 5
  • Study Mode blended Learning (Self Paced)
  • Awarding Body OTHM

Course Description

Overview

The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is a UK-regulated qualification designed for learners who wish to develop practical and technical skills required for a successful career in the rapidly evolving IT sector. The programme is ideal for aspiring IT professionals, current practitioners seeking to enhance their knowledge, and learners wishing to progress to higher education or specialised IT careers.

The qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of core information technology disciplines, including IT fundamentals, systems and networking, database management, software development, cybersecurity awareness, and information systems. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the programme equips learners with the technical competencies needed to design, develop, implement, and maintain modern IT solutions across a wide range of business environments.

Throughout the course, learners will strengthen their analytical, problem-solving, programming, and technical support skills while developing a solid understanding of emerging technologies and industry best practices. Graduates will be well prepared for employment in the IT industry or progression to higher-level qualifications and university degree programmes.

Why Choose This Qualification?

  • UK Ofqual Regulated Qualification
  • Level 5 (Higher Education Diploma Level)
  • 120 UK Credits
  • Equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor's Degree
  • Industry-relevant curriculum aligned with modern IT practices
  • Flexible blended learning
  • Assignment-based assessment with no written examinations
  • Suitable for aspiring IT professionals and those seeking career progression
  • Progression to Level 6 qualifications and university top-up degree programmes

Assessment

This qualification is assessed entirely through coursework and written assignments, enabling learners to demonstrate their knowledge and apply IT concepts to practical workplace scenarios.

Assessment methods include:

  • Technical reports
  • Practical assignments
  • Case studies
  • Software development projects
  • Database design and implementation tasks
  • Systems analysis and evaluation
  • Research-based assignments

Entry Requirements

To enrol on the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology, learners should normally:

  • Hold a Level 4 qualification in Information Technology or a related discipline.
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 5.5 or equivalent) where English is not the learner's first language.
  • Applicants with relevant work experience but without formal qualifications may also be considered following an interview and assessment by the delivery centre.

Equivalency

The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is regulated on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor's degree. The qualification comprises 120 credits and provides learners with a recognised pathway to Level 6 qualifications and university top-up degree programmes.

Progression

Upon successful completion of the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology, learners may progress to:

  • OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology
  • Final year (Top-up) Bachelor's degree programmes at recognised universities
  • Employment in a wide range of IT roles including:
    • Software Developer
    • IT Support Specialist
    • Systems Administrator
    • Network Administrator
    • Database Administrator
    • Junior Cybersecurity Analyst
    • Web Developer
    • IT Project Support Officer

Qualification Structure

The qualification consists of mandatory units totalling 120 credits.

Mandatory Units

  • Information Systems Analysis and Design
  • Managing Communication
  • Computer Programming
  • Database Management Systems
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Networks and Cyber Security
  • Software Engineering
  • Managing Information Technology Projects

Duration and Delivery

The qualification is designed to be completed over one academic year through full-time study. Flexible blended learning delivery is also available, making the programme suitable for part-time learners, working professionals, and individuals seeking to develop practical IT skills while balancing work and personal commitments.

Entry Requirements

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management (June 2024 Specification), the entry requirements are:
Age: The qualification is designed for learners who are typically aged 18 and above.
Academic qualifications: Applicants should normally have at least one of the following:
A relevant Level 3 Diploma or an equivalent qualification.
GCE Advanced Level (A Levels) in two subjects or an equivalent qualification.
Mature learners (aged 21 and above) with relevant management experience. Such learners should check with the approved delivery centre to confirm that their experience is suitable before registering.

Qualification Details

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management equips learners with the practical knowledge, leadership skills, and business expertise needed to succeed in today's dynamic business environment. Covering key areas such as leadership, finance, operations, customer management, business development, and strategic decision-making, the qualification provides a strong foundation for career progression or progression to the final year of a UK bachelor's degree.

Career Progression

Successful completion of the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management equips learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and business acumen required for a wide range of career opportunities across the public, private, and third sectors. Graduates may progress into roles such as: Business Manager Operations Manager Marketing Executive or Marketing Manager Human Resources Officer or HR Manager Project Coordinator or Project Manager Business Development Executive Finance or Accounts Supervisor Team Leader or Department Manager Customer Relationship Manager Entrepreneur or Small Business Owner The qualification also provides a strong foundation for professionals seeking promotion into supervisory and middle management positions or those wishing to establish and grow their own business. Additionally, learners can progress academically to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Business Management or gain direct entry into the final year (Year 3) of a UK Bachelor's degree through recognised university progression routes

Accreditation

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is an Ofqual-regulated qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), ensuring it meets rigorous UK academic and quality standards. Awarded by OTHM Qualifications, an internationally recognised UK awarding organisation, the qualification carries 240 credits and is equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor's degree. It is recognised by employers and higher education institutions worldwide, providing learners with the opportunity to progress to the final year (top-up) of a bachelor's degree at a range of UK universities, subject to the entry requirements of the chosen institution.

Contact Information

For course support, email support@theoxfordcollege.com or use the help centre inside your learner dashboard. Our support team is available Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, and aims to respond to all queries within 24 hours.

  • Engaging in academic research and writing will help students to interpret and evaluate sources of information and evidence before becoming involved in the production of evidence based, logical, arguments. The aim of this unit is, therefore, to support the exploration of key topics which form part of the academic research and writing process so that learners will be able to achieve greater success and recognition in their studies.

  • Even though businesses are different in many ways, they do have some common features and are influenced by similar factors. This unit’s aim is to provide learners with the underpinning knowledge to contextualise and examine the fundamental factors which influence how a business operates within the context of its internal and external environment.

  • The effectiveness of a business’s approach to communication can often be critical to the achievement of strategic and operational objectives. The ways in which a business connects with its internal and external stakeholders, and overcomes different barriers to communication, will determine its short and long-term success. The aim of this unit is, therefore, to provide learners with the fundamental knowledge and skills to engage in meaningful and appropriate communication irrespective of the context in which the communication is located.

  • Having and effective finance and accounting function will not only help secure the financial strength of a business but will also support managers to develop and implement a business strategy. The aim of this unit is, therefore, to develop, in learners, the theoretical and applied knowledge to prepare, interpret and adjust financial statements alongside the preparation of budgets.

  • Having hard management and soft leadership skills is often stated by employers as being key to the success of a business but few people have sufficient quantities of both to make a significant impact on business operations and strategy. The aim of this unit, therefore, is to support a learner’s understanding of leadership as a role and management as a function so that they are able to develop the knowledge, skills and traits to make a meaningful contribution to a business’s success.

  • From a business perspective, the world is becoming a smaller place. Businesses need to be open to new ideas, new opportunities and a new way of operating. This means businesses need to expand and transform in what is a fast paced and dynamic environment. The aim of this unit is to encourage the exploration of key globalisation theories, concepts and models which will enable learners to gain an appreciation of the complexities of globalisation as well as the benefits globalisation presents to a business.

  • The Principles and Concepts of Strategy module explores the fundamental elements that guide strategic decision-making in organisations. It covers the analysis of internal and external environments, competitive positioning, and strategic resources and capabilities. Key frameworks such as SWOT, PESTEL, and Porter's Five Forces are examined to understand how they influence strategic choices. This unit also delves into the development and implementation of business strategies, emphasising the importance of alignment with organisational goals and the dynamic nature of the strategic landscape.

  • The ability to attract, develop and retain talented employees is a key factor in a business’s success. Human resource management has its focus on supporting and enhancing business success and performance through its strategic vision and operational functions. The aim of this unit is to introduce learners to the key human resource management principles and concepts so they can support a sustainable approach to people management through an understanding of the purpose and scope of the human resource management function.

  • The aim of this unit is to provide learners with a detailed understanding of the marketing planning process and to apply these principles to a variety of business contexts. The unit also provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental analysis and how this can lead to the development of appropriate objectives and strategies to enhance operational marketing performance.

  • All businesses and those employed by it must operate within the laws, legislation and regulations of the countries in which it conducts its activities. Some law only applies to specific types of business and their legal structure whereas other laws apply to any business irrespective of their operations and location. The aim of this unit is, therefore, to support a learner’s exploration of laws, legislation and regulations which apply in their home country and to different types of business.

  • Management accounting provides business managers with financial information required to achieve business objectives. This requires effective decision making based on the timeliness and accuracy of financial information. The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an awareness of the scope and purpose of management accounting, so they are able to support effective decision making within a business.

  • Many people dream of setting up their own business but are not aware of what is required, what support is available and what personal qualities are required. The aim of this unit, therefore, is to consolidate previous learning where learners employ the knowledge and skills of disciplines such as marketing and management to produce a viable business plan.

Adam Khan

Course Lead

Adam Khan is an accomplished business management professional and educator with extensive experience in leadership, organisational strategy, and business development. As Course Lead for the Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management, Adam brings a wealth of industry and academic expertise, helping learners develop the practical management, leadership, and decision-making skills required to succeed in today's competitive business environment. His experience spans strategic planning, operations management, organisational performance, and mentoring future business leaders. Known for his engaging teaching style and learner-focused approach, Adam is committed to equipping students with the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills needed to progress to university study and achieve success in management careers.

  • The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Business Management is an Ofqual-regulated UK qualification designed to develop practical business, leadership, finance, marketing, and management skills. It is equivalent to the first two years of a UK Bachelor's degree.

  • The qualification is assessed entirely through coursework and assignments. There are no written examinations. All assessments are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM to ensure quality standards

  • Yes. Successful learners are eligible to progress directly to the final year (Year 3) of many UK Bachelor's degree programmes or continue to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Business Management, subject to university entry requirements.

  • The qualification is assessed entirely through coursework and assignments. There are no written examinations. All assessments are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM to ensure quality standards

  • Yes. OTHM is a UK awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). Qualifi qualifications are recognised internationally and are designed to support progression to higher-level study and professional development.

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