Up to 64% Off ends soon!
--d --h --m --s
+44 20 4519 0540
Business Management Level-3

OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies

Awarding Body: OTHM 8–10 Months 60 Credits 100% Online

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies provides learners with an in-depth understanding of the functions and structure of businesses. This course equips you with the underlying knowledge, experience, and skills associated with business activities. It will prompt research, investigation, and review of aspects of business, including business communication, people management, customer service, finance, and so on.

The course covers several modules which gives you a solid understanding on various topics. The course provides an overview of research methods and academic skills necessary for success in a business environment. You will also learn the use of information technology for improving business processes and communication. The course also introduces fundamental economic principles and accounting practices relevant to the business world. You will also learn about business environment, how to manage business events, customer handling and various marketing tactics and strategies for business promotion and growth.

The successful completion of this course equips you with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to succeed in employment or further studies.

At a Glance
Who is it for?
Individuals who want to build the knowledge and practical skills needed to understand core business functions and organisational practice.
Avg. Completion Time
8–10 Months, studying at your own flexible pace.
Support Period
12 Months full access to the course and support.
All-Inclusive Fees
Course fees cover all costs including assessment and registration.
Course Materials
Learning resources and study guides developed by approved tutors.
Elevate Grade
Comprehensive assessment feedback from your tutor to elevate your knowledge.
Personal Tutor Meeting
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want.
Flexible Learning
Study from anywhere at your own pace, 100% online.
Study Method
Study 100% online, at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited support from subject matter-expert tutors.
Dedicated Support Desk
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback.
Unlimited Live Classes
Schedule on-demand live online classes for each module.
Why study OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies?

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies broadly explores business operations and structure. By combining theoretical knowledge with application, this course develops you with essential business skills in areas such as communication, people management, customer service, and finance. Through in-depth research and analysis, you will gain a solid foundation for future business endeavours.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Gain a recognised qualification from an internationally recognised awarding organisation.
  • Develop new skills and knowledge that can be immediately applied.
  • Prepare for higher-level positions in management through personal and professional develop as a leader who thrives in complex and globally diverse environments.
  • Progress to a wide range of OTHM Level 4 diplomas. 
What is included in OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies?
Learning Resources
Comprehensive learning resources and study guides developed by expert tutors, covering all key aspects of the syllabus.
Dedicated Tutor Support
Unlimited dedicated support from subject matter-expert tutors throughout the duration of your studies.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback 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.
All-Inclusive Fees
All assessment and registration fees are included in the course fee. No hidden costs.
24-Hour Portal Access
24-hour access to the MyLearnDirect online learning portal for studying at your convenience.
12-Month Support Period

 Full access for 12 months from enrolment.

Who is it for?

 The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies is designed for individuals seeking to develop the core knowledge and practical skills needed to understand how businesses operate and succeed.

  • Individuals starting out in a business support or administrative role.
  • Aspiring business professionals looking to build a foundation in business studies.
  • People considering a career change into business or commerce.
  • School or college leavers wanting a recognised route into business.
New Business Support Staff Aspiring Business Professionals Entry-Level Commerce Staff Career Changers Into Business
Course Benefits

By completing this certification course, you will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental research and academic skills essential for thriving in your studies
  • Use, apply, and develop core IT skills, including presentation preparation and business writing formats like reports.
  • Understand the basic principles of economics and accounting in a business environment.
  • Comprehend different types of businesses, their functions and structures, the environment, and basic marketing principles.
  • Understand the principles of customer service delivery in organisations across different sectors.
  • Understand the principles that apply to the planning and management of events in a range of business sectors.
  • understand the principles that apply to marketing in a business environment, including marketing models, sales principles, and marketing planning.
  • Have a basic understanding on people management.

Why Choose OTHM Qualifications at SBTL?

OTHM is a UK awarding organisation approved and regulated by Ofqual, and it holds full membership of the Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB). Through a network of delivery centres spanning multiple countries, OTHM provides internationally recognised qualifications across a wide spread of professional and vocational fields. Through its academic partnerships in the UK and abroad, OTHM helps graduates boost their career prospects and move on to degree and Master's top-up study at universities around the world.

Key reasons to choose OTHM Qualifications:

  • Ofqual Regulated — As a qualification regulated by Ofqual, OTHM awards are held to the highest national standards set for England.
  • FAB Member — Membership of the Federation of Awarding Bodies reflects OTHM's ongoing commitment to quality and credibility within vocational education.
  • University Progression — Graduates can use OTHM qualifications to gain entry onto degree and Master's top-up courses at universities internationally.
  • Globally Recognised — A network of academic partnerships across the UK and overseas means OTHM qualifications hold weight with employers and institutions alike.
  • Broad Subject Coverage — Programmes span areas such as Business Management, Health and Social Care, HR, IT, Logistics, Project Management, and Strategic Leadership.
  • Rigorous Quality Standards — Every qualification is built and awarded to consistently high standards of integrity and academic rigour.
  • WES Recognised — Recognition by World Education Services (WES) supports international credit transfer and graduate mobility.
Pathways & Progression
Academic Pathway
Progress to Level 4
  • OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Business Management
  • Direct progression on successful completion
Professional Recognition
Ofqual-regulated UK qualification
  • RQF-aligned recognised internationally.
  • Progression opportunities to UK and international university top-up degrees.
  • Supports career and academic advancement.
Career Growth
Career Pathways
  • Business Administrator
  • Trainee Business Analyst
  • A stepping stone towards supervisory and management roles within a business.
Industry Recognition
Professional Certification
  • Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 3 qualification
  • Awarded by Ofqual Recognised Awarding Body OTHM Qualifications
  • Valued by employers across the UK and internationally
Career Paths
Business Administrator
Entry-Level Support Role
Support day-to-day business operations, record-keeping, and administrative processes.
Trainee Business Analyst
Entry-Level Support Role
Assist in gathering and organising business information to support decision-making.
Business Support Assistant
Entry-Level Support Role
Assist managers with planning, reporting, and general business support tasks.
Entry Requirements

To enrol in the OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies, learners must meet the following entry requirements. Our friendly admissions advisors are happy to review your case on an individual basis.

  • Age Requirement

    Be 18 years of age and over.

  • Prior Qualification & Experience

    A previous Level 2 qualification or relevant management experience is required.

  • Course Capability

    Possess the ability to complete the Level 3 course.

  • English Language

    The course is offered in English. You must possess considerable competency in English.

Assessment

For each module you study, you will complete a written assignment of approximately 2,000 words and submit it online via your MyLearnDirect learning portal. The guideline word count for units within this qualification varies depending on the size and content of the unit, thus we kindly ask you to refer to your assessment brief and guidelines for each unit.

Written Assignment
Per Module
2,000 Words
Per assignment
Online Submission
Via MyLearnDirect
Tutor Assessed
Expert assessment
Syllabus

Learners must complete all four mandatory units (R/616/0686, J/616/2712, D/616/0691 and L/616/2713) and select any two optional units (H/616/0692, R/616/2714, D/616/2716 or K/616/2718) to a minimum of 60 credits, 600 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT), and a 

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.

Click on each unit below to read a summary of the learning outcomes.
1
R/616/0686
Introduction to Research and Academic Skills
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit gives learners a grounding in the key research and academic skills needed for successful study at this level, and for later employment or further study. Learners will research information from a range of sources, follow the common steps in producing academic work, and explore different learning styles.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Be able to research information from a variety of sources.
  • Understand common steps in producing academic work.
  • Be able to produce a piece of academic work according to conventions.
  • Understand different learning styles.
2
J/616/2712
Using IT for Business
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit familiarises learners with the use, application and development of core IT skills. It covers word processing, finding useful information online, spreadsheets and presentation software, including preparing presentations and using business writing formats such as reports.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Be able to utilise the main functions of a word processor.
  • Be able to identify useful information from the Internet.
  • Be able to utilise the main functions of spreadsheet software.
  • Be able to utilise the main functions of presentation software.
3
D/616/0691
Introduction to Economics and Accounting
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit gives learners an understanding of the basic principles of economics and accounting in a business environment. Learners will also develop an understanding of the content of basic financial statements and the principles of recording financial transactions.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand essential aspects of business accounting.
  • Understand basic economics as they apply to the business world.
  • Be able to apply key concepts in financial accounting.
4
L/616/2713
Introduction to the Business Environment
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit enables learners to understand different types of businesses, their functions and structures, and introduces basic marketing principles. Learners will explore the micro and macro business environment, understand the concept of quality and carry out basic business analyses.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand different types of businesses and their functions.
  • Understand a range of basic business and management structures.
  • Understand basic marketing in business.
  • Be able to utilise a number of key business concepts.
5
H/616/0692
Introduction to Customer Service
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit develops learners’ understanding of the principles of customer service delivery in organisations across different sectors. Learners will explore effective communication with customers and how different sectors deliver service, and will learn how to propose and implement improvements to customer service.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand how organisations carry out customer service in a particular sector.
  • Understand the use of effective communication techniques with customers.
  • Understand how organisations in different sectors deliver customer service.
  • Understand how to recommend improvements to customer service.
6
R/616/2714
Managing Business Events
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit develops learners’ understanding of the principles of planning and managing events across a range of business sectors. It explores why businesses hold events and why events have become more prominent in recent years, along with how they are planned, managed and evaluated.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the business events sector.
  • Understand the principles of business event planning.
  • Understand the principles of business event management.
  • Understand the principles of evaluating business events.
7
D/616/2716
Introduction to Marketing
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit develops learners’ understanding of the principles of marketing in a business environment. It covers the role of marketing, the marketing mix and other marketing models, sales principles, and marketing planning.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the role of marketing in the business environment.
  • Be able to apply the core components of the marketing mix.
  • Understand the principles of sales in a business.
  • Understand the principles of marketing planning.
8
K/616/2718
Introduction to People Management
100 TQT 10 Credits

Unit Aim
This unit develops learners’ understanding of the principles of managing people across a range of business sectors. It covers people management and performance management, and introduces concepts such as reward, recognition, motivation and leadership.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the principles of people management.
  • Understand the principles of performance management.
  • Understand the role of reward and recognition in a business.
  • Understand the principles of leadership in business management.
Study Mode

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 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.

Our simplified online learning facilitates you to achieve high career growth without stress and dilemmas.

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 throughout the duration of your studies.
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 callback 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 programme.
Quality Learning Resources
Quality learning resources developed by expert tutors, which include learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies, etc., enabling you to apply your knowledge.
Assessment Resources
We offer comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines to support you through each module.
Resources & Support

We are committed to providing unwavering support throughout your educational journey. 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.

Induction
Online and flexible learning induction to help you settle in and prepare for your online studies.
Tutor Support
Dedicated support from expert tutors throughout the duration of your course.
Personal Tutor Meetings
Schedule online personal tutor meetings whenever you want for guidance, support and encouragement.
Dedicated Support Desk Portal
Raise queries, request tutor support and ask for a callback whenever you need guidance and assistance.
Elevate Knowledge
Your tutors will provide formative assessment feedback for each module, helping you improve throughout the course.
Quality Learning Resources
Learning pathway materials, lecture notes, study guides, case studies and more.
Assessment Resources
Comprehensive assessment resources and assessment guidelines provided.
Study Guides
Structured study guides for every unit, keeping you on track and strengthening your understanding as you progress.
Why should I choose SBTL?

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.

How does online learning work at SBTL?

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.

How will I get tutor support and other guidance?

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.

  • Constructive formative feedback on every assignment to help you improve
  • Guidance on the proposed structure of your work
  • Regular discussion of your assignment progress throughout the course
  • Guidance on presentation — title page, contents, pagination, footnotes and Harvard referencing

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?

              
1
Select your course — choose the course you want to pursue, making sure you meet the entry requirements.
              
2
Enrol — submit your order application via our website or by emailing admission@sbusinesslondon.ac.uk, then pay online or by bank transfer, as a single payment or in monthly instalments.
              
3
Get portal access — once payment and a compliance check (ID and eligibility) are complete, you'll receive your MyLearnDirect login, usually within 48 hours.
              
4
Induction — a comprehensive online induction helps you settle in and prepare for your studies.
              
5
Dedicated tutor — your allocated tutor and our academic support team assess your work and provide formative feedback before final submission.
              
6
Assessment — marks and grades are published via MyLearnDirect once your final submission is made.
              
7
Certification — receive your accredited certificate on successful completion, ready to progress your career or enrol on your next course with us.
            

What does the allocated tutor provide to me? 

  • Provide you with comprehensive guidance and support from start to finish of your course through the support desk portal.
  • Our tutors don't just provide academic support; throughout your learning journey, they strive to build confidence, foster aspiration, and encourage a love for learning
  • Offer constructive formative feedback on your assignments, which can help you to improve your assignments. 
  • Offer guidance on the proposed structure.
  • Discuss the progress of your assignments with you during the course.
  • Provide guidance on presentation, such as the title page, contents page, pagination, footnoting and Harvard Referencing.

Are OTHM courses accredited?

OTHM qualifications are Ofqual-regulated which combine academic credibility and international progression opportunities. OTHM is a UK-based Awarding Organisation and a full member of the Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB), reflecting its established role within the UK vocational education sector.

OTHM qualifications can provide opportunities for progression to degree and Master's top-up programmes at universities in the UK and overseas, subject to the requirements of the receiving institution and the specific qualification. OTHM also offers qualifications across areas including Business Management, Health and Social Care, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Logistics, Project Management and Strategic Management and Leadership.

Does my course have any deadlines?

It is a purely online course that allows you to complete the learning at your own pace. You are required to complete your course within the support duration specified for each course. You should inform the admissions advisor during enrolment if you need additional time. The course duration varies for each course depending on the credit requirement. Please see the duration below:

  • Courses with 60 credits – 10 months
  • Courses with 120 credits – 12 months
  • Courses with 240 credits – 18 months
Is the course fee all-inclusive? Are there any hidden fees?

Yes, our course fee is all-inclusive, and there are no hidden fees. If you complete your course within your standard support period, without needing a resubmission or a printed certificate, you pay nothing beyond the course fee. Your course fee covers awarding body registration, full course access, tutor support, learning materials, one formative review per module, assessment marking and your digital certificate.

Additional fees apply only in specific optional or performance-based situations:

  • Resubmission fees: if a submission is referred and you need a further attempt.
  • Additional formative review: if you request more than the one review included per module.
  • Extension fees: if you need more time beyond your standard support period. Awarding body fees may also apply.
  • Printed certificate and shipping: if you request an optional printed certificate where the awarding body offers one, and its delivery. Digital certificates are included.
  • Course change: if you ask to change to a different course after enrolling.

The amount of each fee is set out in detail in our Terms and Conditions, which you review and accept before purchasing your course.

Is there a fee for shipping my certificate?

Your digital certificate is included in your course fee, with no shipping charge. If you request a printed certificate where the awarding body offers one, a shipping fee applies:

  • Within the UK: £10
  • Outside the UK: £50

Shipping fees are set out in our Terms and Conditions, which you review and accept before purchasing your course.