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MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma

The MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma is designed for learners and professionals who want to accelerate their progression into leadership and management roles. This integrated pathway combines a recognised Level 7 diploma in strategic management and leadership with a final MBA top up, enabling you to develop advanced the strategic leadership and managerial skills required in today’s global business environment.

The journey begins with the first phase – the QUALIFI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. This Level 7 qualification is ideal for those looking to build a strong foundation in key areas such as strategic management and business planning, forming a strong base for progressing into an MBA top up programme.

Upon successful completion, you will progress to the second phase – the MBA Top-Up, awarded and delivered by University of Central Lancashire. This online programme focuses on enhancing your ability to apply business and management knowledge in practical and professional contexts, often through a dissertation or a final research project.

Typically completed within 18 months, this qualification provides both a recognised Level 7 diploma in strategic management and leadership and MBA top-up awarded by University of Central Lancashire. The School of Business and Technology London collaborates with CEG to promote the Top-Up phase of this course.

At a Glance

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Who is it for?

MBA Top Up inclusive of Level 7 Diploma is ideal for individuals who want to achieve a British Master Degree and those who aspire to excel in high-level management and leadership roles or pursue further academic advancement in the field.

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

All Inclusive Fees

Course fees cover all costs.

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Average Completion Time

18 Months

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Flexible Learning

Study online or blended

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Support Period

24 Months

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Study Methods

Choose online or blended study mode, depending on what works best for you.

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Dedicated Tutor Support

Dedicated supervisor for MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Level 7 Pathway Diploma

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

Dedicated Support Desk

Dedicated Distance Learning Support Team for MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Level 7 Pathway Diploma to help and support you throughout your time at University of Central Lancashire.

MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma is designed to strengthen your expertise in business and management, with opportunities to explore key areas such as strategy, leadership, innovation, and global operations. With its structured pathway through the Level 7 Diploma and Top-Up stage, this course provides you with the skills, confidence, and internationally recognised MBA qualification to advance your career into senior leadership roles or continue your professional development at a higher level.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in employment
  • Provide specialist study where you are currently working, or where you are aiming to work within the business  sector
  • Develop new skills and knowledge that can be applied immediately
  • Learn from a curriculum supported by the most recent content relevant to a contemporary business environment.

Diploma – Delivered by School of Business and Technology London

  • Regulated Qualification: Awarded by Qualifi, an Ofqual-regulated UK Awarding Body, these qualifications are credible, industry-relevant, and accepted by universities and employers worldwide.
  • Flexible Online Learning: Learn 100% online at your own pace.
  • Expert Tutor Support: Dedicated support from expert tutors.
  • Support Desk Portal: Raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a call back whenever you need guidance and assistance.
  • Elevate Grade: Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the course.
  • Personal Tutor Meetings: Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, helping you get the most out of your studies with guidance, support, and encouragement.
  • Extended Support Period: 36 months of support throughout your studies.
  • 24/7 Platform Access: Round-the-clock access to the online learning platform 'MyLearnDirect'.
  • Live Online Classes: Schedule live online classes for each module at your convenience. (Blended learning only)

 

Top-Up – University of Central Lancashire

  • Flexible Online Learning: Learn 100% online at your own pace.
  • Dedicated Supervisor Support: Dedicated support from your allotted supervisor throughout your studies.
  • Online University Portal: Access a dedicated online portal for course materials, learning resources, and assessments — from anywhere, on any device.
  • Interactive Learning Community: Enjoy the flexibility to study from anywhere, with opportunities to interact with instructors and peers and receive support.
  • 24/7 Platform Access: Round-the-clock access to the online learning platform, ensuring you can study whenever it suits you.
  • Graduation Ceremony: On successful completion, you will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus. If attending in person is not possible, the University of Central Lancashire will arrange to have your certificate sent to you.

 The MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma is designed for individuals who have an existing foundation in business and management and want to progress towards completing a postgraduate MBA degree.

  • Learners with prior business qualifications looking to progress to an MBA degree.
  • Individuals seeking to develop their knowledge of core strategic management and leadership principles and practices.
  • Managers and business support professionals aiming to strengthen their academic credentials.
  • Career changers interested in pursuing opportunities within the business and leadership sector.
  • Learners planning to progress to further study or professional business qualifications.

By completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Develop advanced strategic management and leadership skills
  • Gain strong analytical, research, and decision-making abilities
  • Understand core business functions including finance, marketing, and operations
  • Undertake an independent research project aligned with your career goals
  • Enhance your professional profile with globally recognised qualifications

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a prominent public university established in 1828, based in Preston, Lancashire, England. With a student and staff community of nearly 38,000 and academic collaborations spanning every corner of the globe, UCLan stands among the largest and most internationally respected universities in the United Kingdom. Through SBTL, learners can advance to a UCLan Bachelor's or Master's degree — awarded directly by the university — via a structured academic pathway designed for those who have completed relevant Level 5 or Level 7 qualifications.

Key reasons to choose UCLan Degree Qualifications at SBTL:
  • Top 7% Worldwide — Ranked among the top 7% of universities globally, reflecting UCLan's international standing and academic excellence
  • First Modern UK University in QS Rankings — A landmark achievement recognising UCLan's quality and global reputation since 2010
  • WES Recognised — Qualifications are recognised by World Education Services (WES), supporting international credit transfer and graduate mobility
  • Truly Global Community — A student community representing more than 100 countries, creating a diverse and internationally connected learning environment
  • Nearly 200 Years of Excellence — A proud academic heritage dating back to 1828, combining tradition with a forward-thinking approach to education
  • Global Academic Partnerships — Established partnerships across all regions of the world, ensuring UCLan qualifications are valued internationally

To enrol in the MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma, learners must:

  • Be 21 years of age and over
  • A previous level 6 qualification or equivalent
  • Possess the ability to complete the Level 7 course
  • Demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English, as the course is delivered in English.

Our friendly admissions advisors are available to guide you through the application process, providing personalised advice and reviewing individual cases to help you achieve your learning and career goals.

Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL

QUALIFI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership consists of 6 mandatory units and two optional units for a combined total of 120 credits.

Module Name

Level

Credits

TQT

GLH

Mandatory Units

Manage Team Performance to Support Strategy

7

15

150

75

Information Management and Strategic Decision Taking

7

15

150

75

Leading a Strategic Management Project

7

15

150

75

Strategic Direction

7

15

150

75

Strategic Planning

7

15

150

75

Development as a Strategic Manager

7

15

150

75

Optional Units

Finance for Managers

7

15

150

75

Strategic Marketing

7

15

150

75

Organisational Change Strategies

7

15

150

75

Human Resource Planning

7

15

150

75

 

MBA Top-Up – Delivered by University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

The MBA Top-Up stage, delivered by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), focuses on the Dissertation module of 60 credits, which is a core component of the Master of Business Administration programme.

This module gives students the opportunity to undertake independent research on a chosen topic within the field of management. Throughout the process, you will develop knowledge of research methods, prepare a research proposal, and carry out a detailed literature review.

Assessment Structure

  • Research Methods Brief – 2,000 words
  • Final Dissertation/Project – 12,000 words
  • Professional Development Report – 1,000 words

Students can choose a dissertation topic in a preferred area of management, such as finance, marketing, human resources, or operations. This allows them to focus on a specific area of interest and build relevant expertise aligned with their career goals.

Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable.

Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete.

Reference No :

Credit : 60 || TQT : 0

The MBA Top-Up stage, delivered by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), focuses on the Dissertation module of 60 credits, which is a core component of the Master of Business Administration programme.

This module gives students the opportunity to undertake independent research on a chosen topic within the field of management. Throughout the process, you will develop knowledge of research methods, prepare a research proposal, and carry out a detailed literature review.

Assessment Structure

  • Research Methods Brief – 2,000 words 
  • Final Dissertation/Project – 12,000 words 
  • Professional Development Report – 1,000 words 

Students can choose a dissertation topic in a preferred area of management, such as finance, marketing, human resources, or operations. This allows them to focus on a specific area of interest and build relevant expertise aligned with their career goals.

Learners need to complete any combination of units to a minimum of 15 credits. The minimum Total Qualification Time is 150 hours, including 50 Guided Learning Hours

Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable.

Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete.


Reference No : Unit 2001V1

Credit : 6 || TQT : 60

Personal development as a team leader unit is all about the event of talents,responsibilities and knowledge of the team leader for team welfare. Inorder to understand the team leader’s responsibilities in reference to discrimination, harassment, and diversity.Learners will be also able to implement and review the development plan to meet work objectives.

Reference No : Unit 2003V1

Credit : 5 || TQT : 50

This unit helps the learner the understand the aspects of understanding and monitoring team performance using smart technique.

Reference No : Unit 2007V1

Credit : 5 || TQT : 50

The unit describes about the teams internal and external customers. Learners will be able to identifying the customer, providing the extent of service, and resolving customer issues.

Reference No : Unit 2002V1

Credit : 5 || TQT : 50

Communicating with a team unit is about organising and leading a team briefing to communicate within the team. Learners can understand the structure of team briefing, it also describes methods of involving team members within the team briefing and evaluate the result of the team briefing against its objectives.

Reference No : Unit 2004V1

Credit : 6 || TQT : 60

Controlling resources unit is about identifying, sourcing, managing, and maximising resources to realise team objectives. Discuss the consequences of resource wastage,explains methods of identifying resource wastage and actions to be taken to scale back resource wastage whilst meeting team objectives.

Reference No : Unit 2005V1

Credit : 5 || TQT : 50

"Building work relationships unit is about understanding the way to communicate and develop work relationships with the manager, team, and people outside the team. Learners can understand the need to maintain confidentiality while communicating with individuals within the team. "

Reference No : Unit 2006V1

Credit : 6 || TQT : 60

Developing team needs unit is about inducting a team member, identifying, planning,and implementing team training.This unit trains a team member to hold out a task, ensuring that training provided meets legal and organisational requirements.

Delivery Methods

School of Business & Technology London provides various flexible delivery methods to its learners, including online learning and blended learning. Thus, learners can choose the mode of study as per their choice and convenience. The program is self-paced and accomplished through our cutting-edge Learning Management System. Learners can interact with tutors by messaging through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System to discuss the course materials, get guidance and assistance and request assessment feedbacks on assignments.

We at SBTL offer outstanding support and infrastructure for both online and blended learning. We indeed pursue an innovative learning approach where traditional regular classroom-based learning is replaced by web-based learning and incredibly high support level. Learners enrolled at SBTL are allocated a dedicated tutor, whether online or blended learning, who provide learners with comprehensive guidance and support from start to finish.

The significant difference between blended learning and online learning methods at SBTL is the Block Delivery of Online Live Sessions. Learners enrolled at SBTL on blended learning are offered a block delivery of online live sessions, which can be booked in advance on their convenience at additional cost. These live sessions are relevant to the learners' program of study and aim to enhance the student's comprehension of research, methodology and other essential study skills. We try to make these live sessions as communicating as possible by providing interactive activities and presentations.

Resources and Support

School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently.

Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal.

Management Direct

As part of the program, you will get access to CMI Management Direct, which provides a rich foundation of management and resource for students. The Management Direct is packed with content, including:

  • E-Books
  • Articles
  • Leader videos
  • Idea for leaders
  • Models and so much more...

Flexible Learning Options for Your Success

At SBTL, we recognise that every learner has unique commitments and learning preferences.

Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL

Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with online learning resources and study guides developed by our expert tutors to provide structure, keep you motivated, and strengthen your understanding of the subject.

If you want structured guidance and support but can't attend scheduled live classes, then online learning is the perfect study method. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule.

We are dedicated to offering extensive learning support to simplify your learning journey, so we provide the option to schedule online personal meetings with your tutor at your convenience.

What's included in our online learning?

  • Learning Resources: Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors which cover all the key aspects of the syllabus.
  • Tutor Support: Dedicated support from expert tutors.
  • Personal Tutor Meetings: Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
  • Dedicated Support Desk Portal: You can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a call back whenever you need guidance and assistance.
  • Elevate Grade: Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the program.
  • Quality Learning Resources: Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enable you to apply your knowledge.
  • Assessment Resources: We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines.

Top-Up – University of Central Lancashire

The Top-Up is delivered entirely online by the University of Central Lancashire, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world.

  • Flexible Online Learning: Study entirely online at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
  • Dedicated Learning Platform: Access course content, connect with tutors, and collaborate with fellow students through UCLan's dedicated Learning Management System, available via web or mobile app on both iOS and Android.
  • Extensive Digital Library: Benefit from full access to UCLan's extensive digital library, offering thousands of books, journals, and specialist resources.
  • Dedicated Support Team: A dedicated support team is available to provide research training and guidance, from structuring assignments to maximising the use of online tools.
  • Rich Learning Experience: Engage with video lectures, interactive assessments, and online discussion forums, all delivered to the same academic standards as on-campus courses.

Flexible Learning Options for Your Success

At SBTL, we recognise that every learner has unique commitments and learning preferences.

Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL

Our blended learning combines self-paced online learning with scheduled online live classes. With our blended learning, you can schedule online live classes for each module you study at your convenience. Join scheduled, interactive live lectures online, talk to tutors during the class for live feedback, and get guidance and support for your studies.

What's included in our blended learning?

  • Online Live Classes: Schedule live online classes for each module at your convenience.
  • Learning Resources: Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors which cover all the key aspects of the syllabus.
  • Tutor Support: Dedicated support from expert tutors.
  • Personal Tutor Meetings: Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
  • Dedicated Support Desk Portal: You can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a call back whenever you need guidance and assistance.
  • Elevate Grade: Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the program.
  • Quality Learning Resources: Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enable you to apply your knowledge.
  • Assessment Resources: We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines.

Top-Up – University of Central Lancashire

This Top-Up is delivered entirely online by the University of Central Lancashire, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world.

  • Flexible Online Learning: Study entirely online at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
  • Dedicated Learning Platform: Access course content, connect with tutors, and collaborate with fellow students through UCLan's dedicated Learning Management System, available via web or mobile app on both iOS and Android.
  • Extensive Digital Library: Benefit from full access to UCLan's extensive digital library, offering thousands of books, journals, and specialist resources.
  • Dedicated Support Team: A dedicated support team is available to provide research training and guidance, from structuring assignments to maximising the use of online tools.
  • Rich Learning Experience: Engage with video lectures, interactive assessments, and online discussion forums, all delivered to the same academic standards as on-campus courses.

Flexible Learning Options for Your Success

At SBTL, we recognise that every learner has unique commitments and learning preferences.

Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL

Our dedicated support team is a crucial link between tutors and learners, ensuring that guidance, assessment feedback, and additional study assistance are delivered promptly and effectively. At the Support Desk area in the MyLearnDirect learning portal, you can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a call back whenever you need guidance and assistance.

Our extensive support includes:

  • Induction: We offer online and flexible learning induction to help you settle in and prepare for your online studies.
  • Tutor Support: Dedicated support from expert tutors.
  • Personal Tutor Meetings: Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want, which will help you get the most out of your studies and provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
  • Dedicated Support Desk Portal: You can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a call back whenever you need guidance and assistance.
  • Elevate Grade: Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve your achievements throughout the program.
  • Online Live Classes: Schedule live online classes for each unit. (Blended learning only)
  • Quality Learning Resources: Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enable you to apply your knowledge.
  • Assessment Resources: We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines.

Top-Up – University of Central Lancashire

The course, delivered and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), is equipped with academic and technical support throughout your studies.

  • Dedicated Support Team: A dedicated support team is available to assist with academic queries, research guidance, and the effective use of online learning tools.
  • Tutor Communication & Guidance: Communicate directly with tutors, access guidance materials, and participate in academic discussions through the learning platform.
  • Extensive Digital Library: Benefit from access to UCLan's digital library, including a wide range of academic journals, e-books, and specialist resources to support your research and assignments.
  • Structured Learning Experience: All support services are designed to ensure a structured and responsive learning experience, fully aligned with UCLan's academic standards.

    Awarded by

  • mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma

To know about the course fee, please get in touch with us at: admission@sbusinesslondon.ac.uk

Key Highlights

mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Accreditation
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Course Level
Level 7
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Total Credits
180 Credits
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Study Methods
Online or Blended
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Average Completion Time
18 Months
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Support Period
24 Months
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited tutor support
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Dedicated Support Desk
Guidance and Support
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
All-Inclusive Fees
Course fees cover all costs
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Assessments
Includes Assessment fees
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Registration
Includes Registration fees
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Flexible Learning
Learn at your own pace
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
Course Materials
Comprehensive Learning Resources
mba-top-up-inclusive-of-pathway-diploma
24-hour Access to the Portal
24-hour access to the learning platform