Course Overview
The Ofqual-regulated CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice (RQF) is a senior-level qualification for those who lead, or aspire to lead, at the top of an organisation. Sitting at Level 7, it is awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), one of the most respected names in management education. Many learners search for this programme under slightly different names, including the CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, the Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Leadership Practice, or simply a CMI Level 7 leadership qualification, and all of these refer to the same recognised course.
The CMI Level 7 Strategic Management and Leadership Extended Diploma focuses on strategic leadership, covering areas such as setting strategy, leading change, managing risk and getting the best out of people, all grounded in real workplace practice rather than theory alone. It is designed for senior managers, directors and specialist managers working towards senior leadership roles. Completing the qualification builds the confidence and credentials needed to take on positions such as Senior Manager, Regional Manager, Director or CEO.
Beyond career progression, this Level 7 Extended Strategic Management and Leadership Diploma also opens a clear route for further academic study. Learners who complete the qualification are well placed to progress towards Chartered Manager status, and many go on to pursue further Higher Education study, such as a Master's degree or an MBA, using the credits and knowledge gained through the diploma as a strong foundation.
Studying the CMI Level 7 Management and Leadership Diploma offers learners far more than a certificate. It sharpens strategic thinking, strengthens decision-making under pressure, and equips learners with the practical tools needed to lead people and organisations through change. For those balancing study with a demanding career, the qualification also provides the flexibility to learn at a personal pace while gaining a credential that is recognised and respected across industries worldwide.

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Course Highlights
Awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
Designed for senior managers, directors and future leaders
Free CMI membership included while you study
Study around your career, at your own pace
Why Study With Global Edulink?
We help you turn real leadership experience into a recognised qualification.
Get certified with industry-recognised accreditations and awarding bodies
24/7 access to a digital study portal for flexible learning
Affordable pricing, discounts, and instalment-free payment plans
Instant and sharable e-certificate
Dedicate Mentor Support
Expert – designed course content
Learning Outcomes
Lead with confidence at a senior level and respond to complex challenges
Build and lead a strategy that helps your organisation grow
Guide people through change and get the best out of your teams
Apply financial information to make strong decisions
Who Is This Course For?
- •Senior managers, regional managers or directors who want a recognised qualification
- •Specialist managers, for example in finance, marketing, HR, IT or risk, who want to move into senior leadership
- •Anyone working towards a CEO or director-level role
- •Anyone who wants to strengthen their strategic leadership skills through a globally recognised qualification
Course Resources
Choose from 16 units to build your own path to the full qualification
Free CMI membership for the length of your studies
Recognised route to Chartered Manager status and further study
Free access to ManagementDirect, an online library of articles, eBooks, checklists and videos on management practice
Entry Requirements
Open to learners aged 19 and above
No fixed entry qualifications, but you should have relevant experience or knowledge to manage the level of study
A good standard of English, since the course is delivered and assessed in English
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Skills Gained
This qualification lets you build a path that fits your role and your goals, while giving you a respected, recognised award.
Industry knowledge from a set of units, so you study what matters most to your role
Practical skills needed to operate in your workplace
Effective leadership and critical thinking skills
Course Curriculum
7 Modules
14 Lectures
220 Guided Learning Hours
CMI
Awarded by
The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) was established in 1947 and is the UK’s leading professional body for management and leadership. CMI qualifications and membership support individuals in developing effective management skills, strengthening leadership capability, and progressing in their professional careers.

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
Learners get extra support and resources that make studying easier and more useful.
Free access to ManagementDirect while you study, an online library with thousands of articles, eBooks, checklists and videos on management practice
Free CMI Affiliate membership for the length of your course, with the chance to upgrade as you progress
Twenty-four-hour access to your course material, so that you may study at any time that suits you
Support from qualified mentors throughout your studies, along with access to a dedicated course adviser
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Method of Assessment
- Assessment is based on written reports, marked against the criteria for each unit. Learners receive a Pass or Refer grade based on whether they meet the required standards.
Assessment Format
Assessed through coursework, not timed written exams
Graded Pass or Refer, based on clear assessment criteria for each unit
Assessment methods include written reports, case studies, reflective accounts and workplace projects, depending on the unit
Career Progression
Graduates of this programme can pursue roles that value the skills and accreditation gained through the CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.
1
Civil Service Manager
$45,720 Approx./pa
2
Business Project Manager
$36,830 Approx./pa
3
Management Consultant
$34,290 Approx./pa
Academic Progression
Top up your Award or Certificate to the Extended Diploma within the same Level 7 suite
Use your qualification to work towards becoming a Chartered Manager, a status awarded only by the CMI
Progress on to further Higher Education study, such as a Master's degree or MBA
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