Course at a glance
Introduction
To excel as an organised and proficient business administration professional, one must develop strong organisational skills, manage workloads effectively, and support team operations in today’s digital landscape. This course enhances students’ capabilities to operate across various business environments, providing both theoretical and practical skills essential for supporting learning and growth.
Advances in technology have streamlined tasks in this field, yet the scope of responsibilities has also expanded. For instance, finance software enables the consolidation of roles like secretary and bookkeeper into one, especially for small businesses. This course will examine various business models and legal requirements needed to thrive in a global economy, recognising that no single model fits all.
Learning Aims
The Learning programme for the student, offers choice and scope in regards to the wider study of the business practices. The core aims of the diploma are to:
- Specifically offers the student a theoretical academic approach to the study of this area of good management skills through a robust programme of learning that will enhance careers in the wider field of business sector that the student currently engages within or seeks to aspire towards.
- The Diploma Business Administration encourages students to: develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, a rigorous study of their subject at a specialist level and explores the core self/organisational theories and their application in business settings.
Learning Objectives
- Students will have an opportunity to study aspects of business theory and practice that is current and informs good strategic management practice of which administration is a key part.
- To undertake a broader study of the subject of business administration, through the selection of a variety of topics: managing yourself, managing organisations, managing resources – human and physical and importantly, change.
- Some prior knowledge of business administration is recommended, or experience in working with a business setting. However, the opportunity is provided for candidates who have studied a business subject at IGCSE Level (either as a Full or Short Course) to build on knowledge, understanding and skills gained at that level. Or simply starting from a point of wanting to enhance professional skills.
- The course encourages students to develop the critical, analytical and evaluative skills which will enable them To either go on to Higher Education to study a wide range of management courses, including: accounting, personnel, Law, logistics and many others.
This course consists of Ten Units.
Assessment Objectives (AO)
AO: 1
Students must select and demonstrate clearly relevant knowledge and understanding through the use of evidence, examples and correct language and terminology appropriate to the course of study. In addition, for synoptic assessment, students should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the connections between different elements of their course of study. This assessment, involves two written assignments: one halfway through the course and following the final unit. Both are assessed and graded by the assigned tutor, according to college procedures.
AO: 2
Students must critically evaluate and justify a point of view through the use of evidence and reasoned argument. In addition, for synoptic assessment, students should relate elements of their course of study to their broader context and to aspects of working and career experience.
Quality of Written Communication (QWC)
In addition, OLC require students’ to produce written material in English, candidates must: ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPG) are accurate so that meaning is clear; select and use a form and style of writing appropriate to studying a complex subject matter; organise information clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary when appropriate and Harvard referencing of citation and sources. In this Specification, SPG will be assessed in all tutor marked assignments (TMAs)
To ensure that we maintain quality standards; all our students written assignments are subject to our plagiarism policy and procedure.
Key Features
OLC offer the opportunity to study Business Administration as a professional level 3 validated diploma course. The student will learn and/or review the many aspects of business administration; be able to apply and use that gained knowledge in most business sectors.
This course has several features:
- To develop an understanding of managing business.
- To treat the subject as a professional discipline, providing the academic knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate for specialist study.
- To teach students an enquiring, reflective and critical approach to the study of business administration at a strategic level of responsibility.
- To encourage students to reflect on their own professional business management practice, the norms, perceptions, values and opinions in the light of their study.
Accredited Level 3 Business Administration Diploma Entry Requirement
- Students must be at least 16 years old to enrol in our Level 3 Business Administration Diploma course.
- A minimum prior learning to GCSE standard is required to help students manage the course’s content.
Assesment
The coursework is assessed through continuous assessment with no formal exit examinations.
Study Hours
Approximately: 200 hours of personal study time for the entire course is recommended. All of which is supported by the OLC Course Tutor, who we greatly encourage students to access support from throughout their course.
Quality Assurance
This course has been developed by the College’s professional team of tutors to meet the needs of sector based employers and employees. Further details of our accreditations are provided on our website.
Accredited Level 3 Business Administration Diploma Course Length
1 Year.
Awarding Body
Accredited Level 3 Business Administration Diploma Course Content
Unit 1 – Introduction to Business Administration
This unit provides foundational skills necessary for a variety of office roles, such as administrative secretary, personal assistant, or department manager. Basic skills cover essential tasks like mail management, letter writing, database administration, and understanding HR laws. These skills lay the groundwork for progressing through more specialised units, preparing students for careers in administrative, management, and executive positions.
Unit 2 – Human Resource (HR) Management
This unit covers the evolving role of Human Resource Management, which now encompasses coaching, training, and professional development. Key skills include report writing, presentation, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills essential for customer relations and career planning.
Unit 3 – Team-Based Leadership
Building effective teams is crucial in business administration. This unit explores “group dynamics,” leadership styles, and the essentials of team-based learning. Students learn to communicate effectively, lead by example, and gain skills in active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback.
Unit 4 – Management Accounting
Modern accounting software simplifies account management, but it also requires knowledge in budgeting, variance analysis, and capital budgeting. This unit focuses on providing financial information to support management decisions, with an emphasis on UK accounting practices and a look at international models.
Unit 5 – Project Management
Effective project management is essential for career progression. This unit introduces planning tools like Gantt charts and Microsoft Project, helping students develop skills in risk management, change control, and quality assurance.
Unit 6 – Consulting Skills
This unit focuses on consulting practices, including stakeholder management, problem-solving, and effective report writing. It is a practical pathway for those interested in consulting roles, where skills in data analysis, client presentations, and workshop facilitation are essential.
Unit 7 – Presentation Skills
Presenting effectively is a key skill for business administrators. Students learn how to design visually appealing presentations using tools like PowerPoint, engage audiences, and gain confidence in public speaking.
Unit 8 – Strategic Planning
Strategic planning enables businesses to adapt and grow. This unit covers methodologies in information systems and technology, focusing on scoping, implementation, and evaluation of strategic plans, as well as recognising potential pitfalls.
Unit 9 – Concepts of Organisational Change
Change management is essential in the modern business environment. This unit explores how to lead and adapt to organisational changes, manage employee concerns, and address the impact of change in a global economy.
Unit 10 – Managing in the Global Economy
Business administration increasingly requires a global perspective. This unit focuses on international business practices, cross-cultural communication, and the skills needed to navigate the global marketplace in the digital era.
Progression
This Accredited Level 3 Business Administration Diploma can be used to gain entry to a Level 4 Diploma or higher.
