Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration39 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, full-time during the day.

The course runs over 39 weeks. It prepares you to apply for a business-related degree at university. You'll study topics including business, economics, finance, and research skills. Ascentis recognises the qualification, and UK universities accept it as a route in. You'll need GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4 or above, or an equivalent. There is also an interview to confirm your commitment.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma in Business.

Who this course is for

If you�ve been out of education for a while or don�t have the qualifications needed to go to university, this Access to HE course is designed to help you take that next step. It�s ideal for adults who want to pursue a career in business and need a recognised qualification to progress.

Entry requirements

You�ll need GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent). You should have had a break from formal education and demonstrate your commitment to the course during an interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop an understanding of core business principles and how organisations work.
  • You'll study economics and how markets and financial systems operate.
  • You'll build skills in research, analysis, and academic writing.
  • You'll explore marketing, management, and organisational behaviour.
  • You'll practise presenting arguments clearly in written assignments.
  • You'll learn how to reference sources and structure academic work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Matthew Boulton College. Teaching includes tutor-led sessions, group discussions, and independent study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than exams. You'll build a portfolio of work across the year to meet the requirements of the Diploma.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports the day-to-day running of an organisation.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver campaigns for a business.
  • Finance assistant, handles invoices, budgets, and financial records.
  • Office manager, oversees admin functions across a team or department.
  • HR administrator, supports recruitment, contracts, and staff records.
  • Customer service team leader, manages a front-line service team.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Business Management, the natural next step after this Diploma for most learners.
  • BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance, if you want to specialise in financial work.
  • BA (Hons) Marketing, for those drawn to brand, communications, and consumer behaviour.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business, a Level 4 option if you prefer a vocational higher education route.