
To speak to one of our admission team, please click the ‘Ring me’ button. Our working hours are 9.00am–6.00pm GMT Monday to Friday and Saturday 9.00am–1.00pm. If everyone is busy helping other customers, one of our representatives will call you back as soon as they become available.
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.
MBA (Top Up) delivered and awarded by University of Central Lancashire. Level 7 Diploma awarded by Qualifi. SBTL is a Qualifi Approved Centre.
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:
Level 7 Diploma – Delivered by School of Business and Technology London
Full access for 24 months from enrolment.
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.
By completing this course, you will be able to:
Why Choose Qualifi Qualifications at SBTL?
Qualifi is a UK Awarding Organisation recognised by Ofqual and is set up to respond to the changing needs of learners and employers both at home and abroad. Qualifi produces consistent, credible qualifications with international recognition across numerous industries and professions.
Ofqual Recognised — Official Ofqual recognition means every Qualifi award meets exacting national standards.
Globally Recognised — Employers, institutions, and universities around the world recognise Qualifi qualifications, giving them value well beyond the UK.
University Progression Pathways — Built to support entry onto undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at universities worldwide.
Industry-Relevant — Shaped in partnership with sector skills councils, professional bodies, and employers so content reflects genuine workforce demands.
Broad Portfolio — Spanning Leadership, Management, Business, Health and Social Care, IT, and more, to suit varied career paths.
Rigorous Quality Standards — Developed and awarded with a strong emphasis on consistency, integrity, and credibility.
WES Recognised — Recognition by World Education Services (WES) supports international credit transfer and graduate mobility.
Why Choose University of Central Lancashire Degrees?
University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a leading UK public university with an academic heritage dating back to 1828. Your UCLan Bachelor's or Master's degree is awarded directly by the university on successful completion of the final phase.
Key reasons to choose UCLan Degree Qualifications:
Top 7% Worldwide — Ranked among the top 7% of universities globally, reflecting UCLan's international standing and academic reputation.
First Modern UK University in QS Rankings — Recognised as the first modern UK university to enter the QS rankings, highlighting its growing global reputation.
WES Recognised — Supporting international credential evaluation, credit transfer, and graduate mobility.
Globally Connected — With students from more than 100 countries, UCLan offers a diverse and internationally connected university community.
Nearly 200 Years of Excellence — Founded in 1828, UCLan combines a long academic heritage with a modern approach to higher education.
Global Academic Partnerships — UCLan has established academic partnerships across regions worldwide, supporting the international reach of its qualifications.
To enrol in the MBA (Top Up) Inclusive of Pathway Diploma, learners must meet the following entry requirements.
Be 21 years of age and over.
A previous Level 6 qualification in Business or equivalent is required.
Possess the ability to complete the MBA (Top Up) course.
The course is offered in English. You must possess considerable competency in English.
Level 7 Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL
Written assignment of 2,500-3,000 words per module, submitted online via MyLearnDirect with dedicated tutor feedback.
One per module
Per assignment
Via MyLearnDirect
Expert feedback
MBA Top Up – Delivered and Awarded by University of Lancashire
A varied mix of coursework, written assignments, examinations, and practical activities. These may include problem-solving tasks, projects, presentations, as well as individual and group reports.
Varied written work
Applied to real scenarios
Formal assessment
Hands-on tasks
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.
Level 7 Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL
Learners must complete the 6 mandatory units then choose a minimum of 2 optional units to achieve 120 credits total.
MBA Top-Up – Delivered by University of Central Lancashire
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
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.
At SBTL, we recognise that every learner has unique commitments and learning preferences.
Level 7 Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL
Our online learning option is designed to provide maximum flexibility, enabling you to study anytime and from anywhere. You will gain access to high-quality digital resources and expertly designed study materials that guide your learning and help you stay on track.
This mode of study is ideal for learners who prefer structured support without the need to attend live classes. You can progress at your own pace, build a study schedule that fits your routine, and still benefit from continuous academic support.
You also could schedule one-to-one online sessions with your tutor at times that are convenient for you, ensuring a smooth, supportive, and effective learning experience.
MBA Top-Up – Delivered and Awarded by 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.
Study entirely online at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
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.
Benefit from full access to UCLan's extensive digital library, offering thousands of books, journals, and specialist resources.
A dedicated support team is available to provide research training and guidance, from structuring assignments to maximising the use of online tools.
Engage with video lectures, interactive assessments, and online discussion forums, all delivered to the same academic standards as on-campus courses.
Level 7 Pathway Diploma – Delivered by SBTL
We are committed to providing a supportive and responsive learning environment throughout your studies. Whether you need academic guidance or general assistance, a range of support services is available to help you stay on track and succeed.
You will benefit from dedicated tutor support, ensuring you receive expert academic guidance whenever needed. Our tutors are available to clarify concepts, provide feedback, and help you navigate your coursework with confidence.
In addition, you will have access to a dedicated support desk team, allowing you to raise queries, request tutor assistance, or arrange a call back at your convenience. This ensures that help is always accessible when you need it.
You can also schedule one-to-one online sessions with your tutor at times that suit your schedule. These personalised sessions provide valuable opportunities for deeper understanding, feedback, and academic encouragement.
MBA Top-Up – Delivered and Awarded by 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.
Academic and technical assistance available throughout your studies, including research guidance and help with online learning tools.
Connect with tutors through the learning platform to access guidance materials and participate in academic discussions.
Access a wide range of academic journals, e-books, and specialist resources to support your research and assignments.
All support services are aligned with UCLan's academic standards, ensuring a responsive and high-quality learning journey.
We focus on providing a sophisticated, flexible learning experience. Our courses are designed with 100% online learning so your studies fit around your full-time work and other commitments, letting you study from anywhere, at your own pace.
You'll also get dedicated tutor support, scheduled personal tutor meetings whenever you need them, and access to our Dedicated Support Desk portal to raise queries or request a call back.
Our online learning gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with rich 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 a high level of structured guidance and support without attending scheduled classes, then online learning is the perfect study method for you. You study at your own pace and set your own flexible schedule. Our simplified online learning helps you achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.
You can 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. When it comes to support, we have a dedicated support desk team so you can raise queries, request tutor support, and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance or assistance.
You will have access to unlimited dedicated tutor support through our centralised Support Desk portal. You can schedule personal tutor meetings whenever needed and raise queries via the MyLearnDirect learning portal at any time.
What are the payment methods?
The fee can be paid in either of the following methods:
Debit Card/Credit Card
PayPal
Bank Transfer
Do you offer a monthly payment plan?
Yes. We offer flexible, low-cost and interest-free payment plans across all our courses and study methods, so you can spread the cost monthly and focus on learning.
Can I interchange the units?
As an approved centre, SBTL preselects the units for each course from those listed in the awarding body's specification, and the preselected units are shown on every course's details page.
If you'd like different units, you must request this before enrolment so we can confirm the learning resources are available. Once enrolment is complete, unit interchange requests can no longer be accommodated.
What are the steps I need to follow once I decide to join you?
What does the allocated tutor provide to me?
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) generally offers up to three intakes per year. These start dates typically fall in September, January, and March. However, you may join the pathway diploma at any time, depending on your convenience.
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) was founded in 1828 and has a student and staff community of around 38,000, with academic partnerships across every world region. It was the first modern UK university included in the QS World Rankings (2010) and has ranked among the top 7% of universities worldwide (Centre for World University Rankings). Its student body represents 100+ countries, and degrees are awarded directly by the university.
As a UK-accredited institution, UCLan degrees are recognised by employers and institutions internationally, and can be evaluated by services like WES for study or work abroad.