Level 7
Senior Level
Public Administration
OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration
£2,487.50
Public Administration
Level-7
OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration
The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration is designed to equip professionals with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for effective public service management. This qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of public administration, focusing on the policy process, organisational and human contexts, and the broader social, economic, and political environment that influences public services.
The course empowers learners to analyse complex public management issues, lead change effectively, and develop their ability to manage through networks and partnerships. It prepares learners to meet the challenges of delivering public services amidst increasing pressures, while upholding public service values.
Upon successful completion, learners will be well-prepared to advance in their careers within public and non-profit organisations or to pursue further academic studies, such as a relevant Master’s programme with advanced standing.
At a Glance
Who is it for?
Experienced public sector professionals who want to build senior-level knowledge and practical skills in public policy.
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 7 Diploma in Public Administration?
The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in public service management across various sectors. This course is ideal for individuals aiming to deepen their understanding of public administration practices and leadership within complex organisational and policy environments. It targets experienced managers and professionals who wish to enhance their ability to navigate the policy process, manage public services effectively, and lead change while upholding public service values. The course also prepares learners for senior roles in public and non-profit organisations or for further academic pursuits, such as an MBA with advanced standing or other postgraduate qualifications in related fields, enabling them to continue their academic progression and further specialise in public administration.
Upon completing this course, you will be able to:
- Earn a prestigious qualification from an internationally recognised awarding body in the field of public administration.
- Master advanced public administration and leadership skills tailored to the unique challenges of public and non-profit organisations.
- Prepare for senior roles by becoming a strategic leader capable of navigating complex policy contexts and driving effective public service delivery.
- Progress to an MBA with advanced standing or pursue other specialised professional qualifications to further enhance your career prospects in public administration.
What is included in OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration?
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 7 Diploma in Public Administration is designed for experienced public sector professionals who want to strengthen their strategic understanding of public policy, governance, and administrative leadership at a senior level.
- Experienced public sector managers seeking a recognised qualification to formalise their strategic expertise.
- Individuals working towards a career in senior public administration or policy leadership.
- Employees identified for progression into director or head of service roles within public sector organisations.
- Career changers with substantial public sector or governance experience looking to move into senior administrative leadership.
Course Benefits
By completing this Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration, you will be able to:
- Develop an in-depth understanding of advanced public administration theories and leadership practices, equipping you for senior roles in public and non-profit organisations.
- Apply strategic public administration and leadership skills to effectively navigate policy processes, enhance service delivery, and manage organisational challenges within dynamic public service environments.
- Gain insights into contemporary public administration trends and strategies, with a focus on translating organisational objectives into effective public service solutions.
- Enhance your ability to critically analyse public management issues, performance metrics, and leadership challenges through comprehensive research and strategic thinking.
- Understand the broader social, economic, and political environment of public administration, and leverage strategic principles to influence public service outcomes.
- Prepare for career advancement or further academic progression, including opportunities to pursue a Master’s programme with advanced standing or other specialised postgraduate qualifications in public administration.
- Build a solid foundation for future qualifications or degrees related to public administration, supporting ongoing professional growth and leadership development.
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.
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FAB Member — Membership of the Federation of Awarding Bodies reflects OTHM's ongoing commitment to quality and credibility within vocational education.
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University Progression — Graduates can use OTHM qualifications to gain entry onto degree and Master's top-up courses at universities internationally.
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Globally Recognised — A network of academic partnerships across the UK and overseas means OTHM qualifications hold weight with employers and institutions alike.
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Broad Subject Coverage — Programmes span areas such as Business Management, Health and Social Care, HR, IT, Logistics, Project Management, and Strategic Leadership.
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Rigorous Quality Standards — Every qualification is built and awarded to consistently high standards of integrity and academic rigour.
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WES Recognised — Recognition by World Education Services (WES) supports international credit transfer and graduate mobility.
Pathways & Progression
Academic Pathway
Progress to Postgraduate Level
- Relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., MPA or MSc, subject to university partner)
- 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
- Head of Service
- Public Sector Director
- Builds a foundation for progression into senior public administration and executive governance roles.
Industry Recognition
Professional Certification
- Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 7 qualification
- Awarded by OTHM
- Valued by employers across the UK and internationally
Career Paths
Head of Service
Senior-Level Public Sector Role
Leads the planning and delivery of public services within a defined remit.
Public Sector Director
Senior-Level Public Sector Role
Sets strategic direction and oversees performance across public sector functions.
Policy Manager
Senior-Level Public Sector Role
Directs the development and implementation of public policy initiatives.
Entry Requirements
To enrol in the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration, learners must meet the following entry requirements.
-
Age Requirement
Be 18 years of age or older.
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Prior Qualification & Experience
A Level 6 qualification in a related subject, or significant relevant work experience in a public sector or administrative setting.
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Course Capability
Possess the ability to complete the Level 7 course.
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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 4,000 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
4,000 Words
Per assignment
Online Submission
Via MyLearnDirect
Tutor Assessed
Expert assessment
Syllabus
Learners must complete all six mandatory units to achieve the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Public Administration. The qualification totals 120 credits, 1200 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). There are no optional units.
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
Y/618/0700
Managing and Leading in the Public Sector
200 TQT
20 Credits
Unit Aim
The aim of this unit is to equip learners with key concepts, issues and challenges that a public sector organisation might face in the 21st Century. Exploring how managers develop their management and leadership skills to manage stakeholders, organisational change and complex decision making. Learners will develop skills and knowledge to enhance their leadership competencies, analyse leadership theories and enhance their decision-making abilities to enable them to work more effectively in the public sector organisation.
Learning Outcomes:
- Be able to understand key issues and challenges for public service organisations.
- Be able to understand theories and concepts of leadership and management and their applications in the public service organisations.
- Be able to examine the role of leadership in the public service organisation.
2
D/618/0701
Public Service Reform and Innovation
200 TQT
20 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit will support learners develop their innovative managing and leadership skills to develop innovation for public service reform. Learners will develop skills and critically analyse strategies to manage change, innovation, issues and challenges for the public sector reform.
Learning Outcomes:
- Be able to examine trends of innovation in the public sector.
- Be able to understand the concept of e-government in the public sector.
- Be able to understand the impact of innovation for public service reform.
3
H/618/0702
Policy and Politics – Theory and Analysis
200 TQT
20 Credits
Unit Aim
This unit will support learners to evaluate key theories and examine the local, national and global impact of public policies to society including addressing political issues. You will learn how to make decisions, analyse political debates, identify issues and manage arguments, structure, and agency within an ethical code of conduct as a public administrator.
Learning Outcomes:
- Be able to understand the historical perspective and key theories of public policy.
- Be able to understand the cycle of public policy from formulation to implementation.
- Be able to understand public policy analysis and decision making.
4
K/618/0703
Managing Public Finance
200 TQT
20 Credits
Unit Aim
The aim of this unit is to equip learners with the knowledge and skills of how public finance management rules, laws and regulations help leaders to evaluate and assess expenditure, income and budget for public sector organisations. Learners will be able to gain understanding of different theories, conduct comparative analysis across different economics around the world, understand governance issues and evaluate key financial concepts to develop their conceptual framework to work effectively in managing public finance.
Learning Outcomes:
- Be able to understand public sector expenditures, taxation and financing.
- Be able to understand the concept of public financial management to support economic stability, growth and long-term sustainability.
5
T/618/0705
Advanced Research Methods
200 TQT
20 Credits
Unit Aim
The unit aims to equip learners with the practical, technical, and methodological skills required to conduct independent research for their research project in the domain of public administration and management broadly defined. It recognises that conducting research requires the development of specific and generic research skills, including understanding the research design process, understanding different techniques for conducting research in business and management studies, and appreciating the ethical and social implications of undertaking high value research. This unit will enable learners to develop critical awareness of key research skills as researchers and/or independent practitioners.
Learning Outcomes:
- Be able to develop research approaches in a public administration context.
- Be able to critically review literature on a relevant public administration topic.
- Be able to design research methodologies for a public administration topic.
- Be able to develop and critically evaluate a research proposal.
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.
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