What you are signing up for
This is the general business diploma, and general is the point. Over six units you meet the economic environment a business operates in, the numbers it runs on, the people it depends on and the customers it serves, and you write about each from the position of a manager rather than an observer. The first unit teaches academic writing and research, which is why learners who have not studied for years still finish.
Think of it as the first year of a management degree taken at a different pace. Every assignment asks you to apply the unit to an organisation you know, so people in work usually write about their employer, and people between jobs pick a business they can research. The second-year entry route to a bachelor's degree depends on the university, and we discuss realistic destinations with you before you apply.
The six units
- Academic Writing and Research Skills20 credits
- Business Operations20 credits
- Communication in Business20 credits
- Finance and Accounting20 credits
- Leading and Managing Teams20 credits
- Operating in a Global Context20 credits
Unit titles and credit values are taken from the OTHM qualification specification. The order in which LSPM teaches them is set by LSPM and confirmed at enrolment.
LSPM delivers one unit at a time and confirms the order at enrolment. Expect the writing and research unit first, because every later assignment depends on it, and the team-leadership unit last, because it draws on everything before it.
Entry requirements
OTHM sets the entry requirements for this qualification and LSPM, as the approved centre, applies them when it assesses your application. As published by the awarding body:
- Relevant Level 3 Diploma or equivalent qualification
- GCE Advanced level in 2 subjects or equivalent qualification
- Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme)
Most of the applicants we have introduced to this programme arrived with a Level 3 in business or several years supervising a team. If you have neither, tell us what you have done and we will give a straight first view before LSPM decides.
How you are assessed
Each unit is assessed by one written assignment, typically a report of 2,500 to 3,500 words tied to a real organisation. No exams. LSPM's assignment brief sets the word count; ask whether a draft can be submitted for written feedback before marking.
Where it leads, stated carefully
Level 5 Diploma in Business Management with the same awarding body, which completes the second year of an equivalent degree.
Application to a UK university for direct entry to the second year of a business degree, at the university's discretion.
Team leader or junior management roles where a recognised qualification is the missing piece.
We do not name partner universities on this page. If and when LSPM shows us a written progression agreement for this diploma, it will be listed here with the date it was signed.
Who it suits
Likely to get a lot from it
- Supervisors and team leaders who have been promoted on merit and want the theory behind what they do.
- School or college leavers with a Level 3 who want a degree route without a full-time campus year.
- Career changers who need a broad business grounding before specialising.
Better served by something else
- Anyone who already holds a business degree; this repeats ground you have covered.
- People who want a narrow specialism now, such as accounting or marketing; choose the specialist diploma instead.
- Anyone expecting a guaranteed university place; progression is at the university's discretion.
Asked about this programme
Is this the same as the first year of a degree?
It is set at the same level and carries the same 120 credits. Whether a university will admit you to year two on the strength of it is the university's decision, made case by case.
How long does it take?
Nine to twelve months for most people, depending on study mode. Evening learners usually take the longer path.
Can I study it while working full time?
Yes; most people who take it do. Budget roughly 20 to 25 hours a week over a year.
Read before you decide
Programme brochure
Brochure slot: PDF to be supplied by LSPM, with its fees, dates and tutor profiles for this programme. Ask us for it by email in the meantime and we will obtain the current version from LSPM.
Official specification
OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Business Management specification, published by the awarding body. The authoritative source for units, learning outcomes and assessment criteria. Also listed on the Ofqual register under 610/0763/8.