Overview
The Ofqual-regulated ATHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (RQF) is designed for learners who want to build a genuine understanding of how businesses operate and grow. The course provides knowledge across communication, finance, marketing, leadership and human resources, helping learners approach workplace challenges with greater confidence and prepare for further study or career advancement.
This course is suitable for school leavers, career starters and working professionals who want a recognised qualification without traditional entry requirements. It is also ideal for those seeking a practical route into higher education or a supervisory role.
Learners will explore business communication, financial controls, marketing and sales, leadership and people management, and organisational strategy. They will also develop an understanding of project management, helping them apply their learning directly within a professional environment.
The ATHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Management is also known as the ATHE Business and Management Diploma, the Level 3 Business Diploma, and the RQF Business and Management qualification.
After completing the course, learners may progress to an ATHE Level 4 qualification in Business and Management or apply their 180 credits towards a related undergraduate degree, depending on their existing qualifications and future goals.
The knowledge and skills gained can support progression towards roles such as office manager, administrative assistant and marketing executive, depending on experience and additional qualifications.
By completing this course, learners can gain a nationally recognised qualification, strengthen their business and leadership skills, and open genuine pathways to further study, helping them build a confident and rewarding career in business and management.

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Course Highlights
Ofqual-regulated qualification, equal in level to an A Level
180 credits across 13 mandatory modules
Graded with Pass, Merit, and Distinction
Designed as a pathway to business and management degrees
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Learning Outcomes
Communicate clearly and confidently in a professional business setting
Apply the basics of managing money and budgets in a business
Develop leadership skills and manage people effectively
Plan and deliver a business project from start to finish
Who Is This Course For?
- •Learners aged 16 and above who want a recognised qualification in business
- •Anyone who wants to progress to a business or management degree but does not have traditional entry qualifications
- •Learners who want to study online
- •Anyone who wants to build practical business knowledge to support their current role or career
Entry Requiremnts
Typically for learners aged 16 and above
5 or more GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, or other related Level 2 qualifications, or an equivalent international qualification
If English is not your first language, you should have one of the following: IELTS 5.5, CEFR B2, Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above, or Pearson PTE Academic 42 to 49
Basic computer skills and access to the internet, since the course is delivered online
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Skills Gained
Gain a complete understanding of business through 13 modules covering essential areas such as finance, marketing, leadership, and management.
Understand how different areas of a business work together
An Ofqual-recognised qualification for further study and career progression
Build communication, teamwork and project management skills for the workplace
Develop the knowledge needed to make informed business decisions and solve workplace problems effectively
Course Curriculum
13 Modules
1080 Guided Learning Hours
ATHE
Awarded by
ATHE is a UK awarding organisation established in 2011 that develops regulated qualifications across areas including business, management, healthcare, computing, and education. Regulated by Ofqual, ATHE works with approved centres worldwide to deliver recognised qualifications that support career progression, professional development, and further study.

What is Ofqual?
Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) is the independent regulator responsible for overseeing qualifications, examinations and assessments in England. Its role is to maintain confidence in the qualifications system by ensuring that regulated qualifications are developed, assessed, and awarded to appropriate standards.
Ofqual regulates recognised awarding organisations and monitors whether they meet the required regulatory conditions. This helps ensure that qualifications are reliable, consistent, fair, and provide a meaningful measure of learners’ knowledge, skills and achievements.
An Ofqual-regulated qualification is a qualification that is awarded by an awarding organisation officially recognised and regulated by Ofqual. This provides learners, employers and education providers with assurance that the qualification operates within a recognised quality and regulatory framework.
Course Advantages
Get extra support while you study.
Gain a Level 3 qualification that is useful for further study and career development
Connect with learners studying through ATHE registered centres
Choose flexible online learning that fits around your other commitments
Get guidance throughout your studies to help you stay on track and complete your course
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Reach out to your course adviser for valuable insights and professional support.
Method of Assessment
- Written assignments
- Assessment criteria determine achievement
- Units graded Pass, Merit, Distinction
- Overall qualification grade awarded
Certification
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the ATHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (RQF), a nationally recognised qualification regulated by Ofqual and awarded by ATHE.
Career Progression
After completing this qualification, you can apply for roles that value the knowledge and skills gained through the ATHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business and Management (RQF).
1
Office Manager
$31,750 Approx./pa
2
Admin Assistant
$30,480 Approx./pa
3
Marketing Executive
$29,210 Approx./pa
Academic Progression
Successfully completing this qualification can help you continue to higher education or move into a supervisory role.
Progress to an ATHE Level 4 qualification in Business and Management
Apply to a university degree programme, using this qualification as your entry route
Use your 180 credits toward a related undergraduate degree
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