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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course Online

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start18 Jan 2027
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body

Free if you're 19 to 23 and this is your first full Level 3. Fees apply if you're not eligible. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact GC Education and Skills for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course. Study online at your own pace over one year. If you're aged 19 to 23, you may be eligible for full funding. If you're 24 or over, or already hold a Level 3 qualification, an Advanced Learner Loan may cover the cost. This loan is written off when you complete a university degree.

The course covers business fundamentals and academic skills. Units include Introduction to Business, Introduction to Economics, Business Strategy, Employment Law, Performance Management, and Managing Change. You'll also study academic writing and how to prepare for university-level study.

You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma in Business, recognised by universities across the UK.

Who this course is for

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Business is designed for adults aged 19 and over who want to progress to university but don’t currently have the qualifications to do so. It’s ideal for those looking to start a career in business, management, marketing, finance, or related fields. Whether you’re returning to education, changing career paths, or looking to boost your qualifications, this course provides the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for success in higher education and beyond.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. We would usually expect adult learners to have maths and English at Level 1 or an equivalent qualification; however, we also welcome applications from individuals with overseas qualifications and/or relevant life experience.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles of business, management, and economics.
  • You'll explore employment law, workforce planning, and business strategy.
  • You'll examine the economics of globalisation and macroeconomic principles.
  • You'll develop academic writing skills for university-level study.
  • You'll learn how to manage change and organisational performance.
  • You'll build knowledge of marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship concepts.
  • You'll practise the study and research skills needed for higher education.

How you will learn

You study online, working through units at a pace that suits you. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. You submit work throughout the year and receive feedback to help you progress. The course is designed to build your academic skills alongside your business knowledge.

What you will need to bring

GC Education and Skills will confirm what you need before you start. You'll need reliable internet access and a device to study and submit assignments online.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports day-to-day operations in an office or organisation.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and run campaigns for a business or brand.
  • Finance assistant, handles invoicing, budgeting, and financial records.
  • HR administrator, supports recruitment, payroll, and staff records.
  • Operations coordinator, keeps business processes running smoothly.
  • Entrepreneur, starts and runs their own business venture.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Business Management, the most direct next step after this Diploma, accepted by universities across the UK.
  • BA (Hons) Marketing, for those drawn to brand, advertising, and consumer behaviour.
  • BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance, a strong route into professional finance roles.
  • BA (Hons) Economics, building on the economics units covered in this qualification.
Apply on gceducationandskills.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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