National Diploma & National Extended Diploma in Business

Course Code

Diploma

Course Type

Course Duration

2 Years

Start Date

1 September, 2025
Two students in FabLab with teacher

This Business course is ideal for students interested in pursuing a career in areas such as management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. The Double Diploma will provide you with a broad and practical understanding of the business world. Equivalent to two A Levels, it prepares you for higher education, apprenticeships, or employment in various business sectors. It is ideal for students who prefer a coursework-based, practical alternative to traditional A Levels, and individuals aiming to progress to university, apprenticeships, or straight into the workplace in business-related roles.

The course covers key topics such as:
• Marketing
• Finance
• Human Resources
• Business Planning
• Event Management
• International Business

It emphasises real-world application through project-based assignments, case studies, and teamwork.

Content Overview

Mandatory Units (Core Modules)
These units are essential for all students and cover fundamental aspects of business:

Unit 1 Exploring Business
An introduction to the structure, purpose, and functions of different business organizations.
Unit 2 Developing a Marketing Campaign (Exam)
Focuses on the principles of marketing and the development of effective marketing strategies.
Unit 3 Personal and Business Finance (Exam)
Covers financial planning, accounting principles, and the impact of finance on businesses.
Unit 6 Principles of Management (Exam)
Examines management theories and practices, including leadership styles and organisational structures.
Unit 7 Business Decision Making (Exam)
Develops analytical and problem-solving skills through real-life business scenarios.

Optional Units
Unit 4 Managing an Event
Provides practical experience in planning, executing, and evaluating business events.
Unit 5 International Business
Explores how businesses operate on a global scale, including trade, regulations, and cultural considerations.
Unit 8 Recruitment and Selection Process
Understanding the hiring process, including job postings, interviews, and onboarding.
Unit 9 Team Building in Business
Exploring the dynamics of effective teams and leadership within a business context.
Unit 18 Creative Product Promotion
Designing innovative promotional campaigns for products or services.
Unit 19 Pitching for a New Business
Developing and presenting business ideas to potential stakeholders.
Unit 21 Training and Development
Examining employee development strategies and their role in organisational growth.
Unit 22 Market Research
Learning techniques for gathering and analysing market data to inform business decisions.

Students would need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and Maths.

• Guest Speakers – Talks from business professionals, entrepreneurs, and alumni.
• Employer Visits – Trips to local and national businesses to see operations in action.
• Work Placements – Short-term placements to gain practical experience in a business environment.
• Industry Projects – Collaborative assignments with real companies or case study competitions.
• Business Enterprise Challenges – Opportunities to create and run mini-businesses or social enterprises.
• Pitching Competitions – Dragon’s Den-style competitions judged by local business leaders.

Assessment is mainly coursework-based, with some externally assessed units.

The qualification is equivalent to three A Levels and is widely accepted by universities for entry into a wide range of degree programs, including:
• Business Management
• Marketing
• Accounting and Finance
• Human Resource Management
• International Business
• Economics
• Law (with additional qualifications)
Many universities also offer foundation degrees or HNDs as stepping stones to full degrees.

The course prepares students for entry-level roles in various business sectors. Common job roles include:
• Business Administrator
• Marketing Assistant
• Finance Assistant
• HR Assistant
• Retail Supervisor
• Customer Service Advisor
Students gain practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in the workplace.

Apprenticeships
Students can progress into higher or degree apprenticeships in areas such as:
• Business Administration
• Chartered Management
• Digital Marketing
• Accounting
• Project Management
Apprenticeships offer a way to earn while gaining further qualifications and experience.

Starting a Business
With modules covering entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance, some students use their learning to:
• Start their own business
• Freelance in areas like digital marketing or consulting
• Develop and pitch a business plan to investors or competitions

Combination Pathways
Some learners choose to combine work and part-time study, such as pursuing a business degree through the Open University while working in a related field.

Course Details

Exam Board

Qualification

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