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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course in Manchester

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start22 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Business) Course in Manchester. Classes run at GC Education and Skills Trafford Park, full-time during the day. 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 be available instead.

The course covers business fundamentals and academic skills. Units include introduction to business, economics, management, employment law, business strategy, and macroeconomics. You'll also develop academic writing skills to prepare you for university study. The course takes one year to complete.

You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma (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 fundamentals of business organisation and strategy.
  • You'll explore economics, including globalisation and macroeconomics.
  • You'll learn about management principles, workforce planning, and managing change.
  • You'll develop knowledge of employment law and performance management.
  • You'll build academic writing skills for university-level study.
  • You'll gain an introduction to marketing and finance concepts.
  • You'll prepare a progression plan for applying to higher education.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at GC Education and Skills Trafford Park. Learning is delivered through tutor-led sessions. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than exams. You'll complete units throughout the year and build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your knowledge across the business topics covered.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. GC Education and Skills Trafford Park will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports day-to-day operations in an organisation.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver marketing campaigns.
  • Finance assistant, supports budgeting and financial record-keeping.
  • Office manager, oversees administrative functions for a team or business.
  • HR administrator, handles recruitment and employee records.
  • Operations coordinator, keeps business processes running smoothly.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Business Management, the natural next step after completing an Access to HE Diploma (Business) qualification.
  • BA (Hons) Marketing or Finance, for those who want to specialise in a particular business area.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business, a shorter higher-level option if you prefer to build up gradually.
  • Level 4 Diploma in Business Management, a work-based alternative to a full degree.
Apply on gceducationandskills.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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