Business Studies
Last updated: September 2026
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About the Course
Study Access to HE Diploma for Business Studies online
This online Access to Higher Education Business Studies course is Academy Online Learning’s flexible route for adults who are preparing for a business, management or related university degree. Study from home, begin on a flexible start date and work through your learning around work, family and other commitments, with tutor support throughout the course.
If you're looking for an Access to Business Studies course, the formal qualification title is Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business). This is the title to use on UCAS and when checking entry requirements with universities; “Access to Business Studies online” describes the course route, rather than the award title printed on the certificate.
What the Diploma includes
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) is a 60-credit Level 3 qualification. It includes 45 graded Business credits and 15 ungraded credits that develop the study skills needed for higher education.
Current Business unit themes include business structures, leadership, customer service, finance, business planning, international trade, contracts and consumer law, the UK economic environment, ethics and online business. Your planned unit combination should support the degree subjects you are considering, so compare it carefully with each university’s published requirements.
The ungraded credits build practical academic skills such as planning study, reading and using sources, writing structured assignments, presenting evidence and preparing for university-level learning. The course is assessed through assignments and tutor-marked work rather than exams.
Flexible online learning with tutor support
The Access to Business Studies online course is designed for independent adult learners. There are no fixed classes to attend and no exam sessions to sit. You work through the online materials at a pace that fits your circumstances, submit assignments and receive feedback from your tutor to help you develop your academic work.
Flexible start dates mean you can begin when you are ready. Set aside regular study time and plan backwards from the university application cycle if you intend to apply while completing the Diploma.
Applying to university with Access to HE
Most Access to HE students apply to university while completing the Diploma, for entry in the following academic year. On UCAS, unfinished qualifications and units are normally entered as pending. Academy Online Learning can support your application with UCAS guidance, an academic reference and, where appropriate, information about your progress, completed units and grades achieved to date.
Use our guide to applying to university with Access to HE alongside the university’s own course page. If a requirement is missing or ambiguous, ask admissions a focused question about that specific point rather than assuming that every business degree accepts the same profile.
Where an Access to Business Studies route can lead
This course can help you prepare to apply for business, management and related degrees, subject to the requirements of the individual university. Explore careers in business and management, the requirements needed to work in a business role and further information about careers in business as you decide which direction suits you.
An Access to Higher Education Diploma supports academic preparation and a university application; it does not guarantee a place, professional accreditation or a particular career outcome.
Plan your Access to Business Studies route
Enquiry Form
Complete the form to ask a question, get more information, or start your enrolment. You can choose whether to purchase later.
Why enrol with AOLL?
- Flexible payment options available in the secure store
- Tutor support throughout your course
- UCAS guidance and academic reference support
- Rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot
Ungraded Units (15 credits)
Academic Writing Skills (3 Credits)
Exploring Marketing Concepts (3 Credits)
Presentation Skills (3 Credits)
Researching and Understanding Opportunities in Higher Education (3 Credits)
The Safe and Ethical Use of Generative AI (3 Credits)
Business Units (45 credits)
Business Structures (3 Credits)
Consumer Law (3 Credits)
Corporate Social Responsibility, Ethics and Governance in Business (3 Credits)
Customer Service (3 Credits)
Developing a business plan (6 Credits)
Financial Analysis for Business Management (6 Credits)
International Trade and Development (3 Credits)
Organisation Structures (3 Credits)
Principles of Leadership (3 Credits)
The Formation of a Contract (3 Credits)
UK Economic Environment (6 Credits)
Using the Internet for Business (3 Credits)
Requirements
Entry requirements for Access to Business Studies
You do not need A Levels to begin Access to Business Studies online. You need a good standard of written English, the ability to study at Level 3 and regular access to a computer and the internet. The course is designed for adults returning to study or taking a new route towards higher education.
“Access to Business Studies” is the route name used by Academy Online Learning. The formal qualification is the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business), a 60-credit Level 3 Diploma with 45 graded Business credits and 15 ungraded study-skills credits.
Check university requirements before enrolling
Every university and degree course sets its own requirements. Before choosing your Access route, read the precise course page for each business, management or related degree you are considering. Check that it accepts an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business), the grade profile and unit themes it requires, plus any separate Level 2 English, maths, GCSE or Functional Skills conditions.
Do not assume that a general reference to “an Access course” means every Business Diploma and unit combination will be accepted. Use our guide to universities accepting Access to HE Business to organise your research, then ask admissions only about a requirement that is missing or unclear on the university’s own page.
Applying while you study
Most learners apply to university while completing their Diploma for entry in the following academic year. Unfinished qualifications and units are normally shown as pending on UCAS. Academy Online Learning offers UCAS guidance and can provide an academic reference and, where appropriate, information about progress, completed units and grades achieved to date.
Read applying to university with Access to HE before you begin your application. Meeting the Access Diploma requirements does not guarantee a university place, as a degree provider may also consider its selection process and other stated conditions.
Qualification
QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma
The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally-recognised Level 3 qualification. To use the title “Access to HE”, a course must be recognised under the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) Recognition Scheme.
Academy Online Learning’s Access to HE courses lead to a Diploma awarded through Skills and Education Group Access, a QAA-licensed Access Validating Agency.
The Diploma can support applications to university, but each university sets its own entry requirements. Check that your planned unit combination meets the requirements for your chosen degree before enrolling.
- Full qualification title
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Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business)
- Course type
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Access to Higher Education Diploma
- Credits
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60 Credits at Level 3 (15 Ungraded & 45 Graded)
- Learning aim reference
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40012797
- UCAS tariff points
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Maximum 144 points depending on grades
- Location
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Online
- Start date
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This course can be started at any time of the year
Business Careers and Degree Routes
Business Skills and Careers: What You Need to Know
Access to Business Studies Guides
FAQs
Questions about this course
Q: Can I use this Access to HE Diploma to apply for a Business degree?
A: Yes. The diploma can support applications to Business Studies, Business Management and related business courses. It contains 45 graded Level 3 Business credits, together with 15 ungraded academic skills credits.
Q: Do I need a previous Business qualification?
A: No. AOLL does not require a previous Business qualification to begin the diploma. The learning materials introduce Level 3 business concepts progressively. Students should be prepared to interpret information, analyse evidence, consider different business decisions and explain their conclusions in written assignments.
Q: Do I need business or management experience before starting the Access diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require previous employment or voluntary experience in business, management or administration. Relevant experience may help students understand how organisations operate, but it is not required. Experience from employment, self-employment, volunteering, community organisations or personal projects may all provide useful context.
Q: Do I need to be good at Maths to study Business?
A: AOLL does not require a previous Maths qualification to begin the diploma. However, confidence with arithmetic, percentages, ratios, tables and graphs will be helpful. Students will use numerical information when examining financial statements, business performance and economic data.
Q: Will I learn how to write a business plan?
A: Yes. The six-credit Developing a Business Plan unit allows students to explore a business idea and develop a structured plan. The unit covers areas such as the business rationale, objectives, marketing, resources and financial considerations.
Q: Does the Business diploma include Accounting and Finance?
A: Yes. The Financial Analysis for Business Management unit introduces income statements, balance sheets, cash-flow statements and ratio analysis. Students examine profitability, liquidity, business efficiency and the use of financial information when assessing business performance.
Q: Does the Business diploma include Economics?
A: Yes. The UK Economic Environment unit covers economic systems, the public and private sectors, market competition, supply and demand, and price mechanisms. The International Trade and Development unit introduces international trade, exchange rates and barriers to economic development.
Q: Will I study Business Law?
A: Yes. The pathway includes Consumer Law and The Formation of a Contract. These units introduce legal principles relating to the sale and supply of goods and services, exclusion clauses, consumer protection and the legal requirements for creating a contract.
Q: Will I study Leadership and Management?
A: Yes. The Principles of Leadership unit introduces leadership skills, characteristics and approaches. Organisation Structures and Business Structures develop knowledge of how organisations are formed and arranged. These units provide introductory Level 3 knowledge rather than a professional management qualification.
Q: Does the course include Marketing?
A: Yes. Exploring Marketing Concepts is a three-credit ungraded unit. Students consider why businesses use marketing and examine different approaches to market research. Marketing also forms part of the Developing a Business Plan unit.
Q: Will I study online business and e-commerce?
A: Yes. The Using the Internet for Business unit introduces different forms of e-commerce and examines the benefits and potential problems of trading online. Students also consider how organisations use the internet to support business activity.
Q: Can the Business diploma help me prepare to start my own business?
A: The course develops knowledge of business planning, organisational structures, finance, marketing, contracts, customer service and the economic environment. This can provide useful academic preparation for someone considering self-employment.
Q: Is an Access to HE Diploma equivalent to an A Level or BTEC Business qualification?
A: An Access to HE Diploma, an A Level and a BTEC are different Level 3 qualifications with different structures and assessment methods. The Access diploma contains 60 credits: 45 graded Business credits and 15 ungraded academic skills credits.
Q: Can I complete the Business Access diploma entirely online?
A: Yes. Students access their learning materials online, complete assignments and receive support from subject-specialist tutors. There are no classroom sessions, compulsory workplace placements or examinations.
Q: How is the Business diploma assessed?
A: The diploma is assessed through assignments rather than examinations. There are no exams. Assessment tasks may include essays, reports, presentations and question-based assignments. Students must demonstrate their knowledge, analysis, research and academic writing skills in their submitted work.
Q: Can I achieve the grades required for further study?
A: Yes. All 45 graded Level 3 Business credits can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction, allowing different grade profiles to be achieved. Achieving Distinction grades across all 45 graded credits is equivalent to 144 UCAS Tariff points.
Access to HE Business FAQs
Qualifications
Q: What will this qualification give me?
A: An Access to HE Diploma in Business can lead to a wide range of degree routes, including business, management, and politics. The Access to HE Diploma is a recognised Level 3 qualification and is widely accepted by UK universities and higher education institutions. Read more...
University
Q: Which universities or higher education institutions offer degree courses in Business?
A: A full list of courses and institutions can be found here. Or Read more...
NHS Careers
Q: What careers are available in the NHS?
A: A full list of NHS careers and job roles can be found on the NHS website. Even in Business related courses there are many jobs within the NHS. Read more...
How Studying Online Works
Q: Is this course accredited by the QAA?
A: Yes. It is fully accredited by the QAA for both Health Science Professions and Business. Read more...
Funding
Q: Is there any funding available to me?
A: Please visit our Funding Page for more information. If you are in the Military and want to use your resettlement fund, please click here.
General Access to HE FAQs
Access to HE Frequently Asked Questions
Browse the sections below for answers about qualifications, university applications, studying online, funding, and tutor support.
Qualifications
Q: What is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults for degree-level study. AOLL’s diplomas contain 60 Level 3 credits: 45 graded credits and 15 ungraded credits. The graded credits can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction and carry UCAS Tariff points. Read more...
Q: What are the entry requirements for an Access to HE Diploma with AOLL?
A: AOLL does not require applicants to hold formal qualifications before starting the diploma. However, you will need motivation, the ability to ask for help when needed, and a good standard of written and spoken English. Universities may still require Level 2 qualifications such as GCSEs alongside an Access course, so it is important to check entry requirements carefully. Read more...
Q: Do I need GCSE English and Maths to study an Access to HE Diploma?
A: AOLL does not require GCSE English or Maths for enrolment. However, many degree courses require GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or an accepted equivalent in addition to the Access to HE Diploma. Some courses also require GCSE Science. Students should check these requirements before enrolling. AOLL offer Functional Skills and GCSEs.
Q: How long does an online Access to HE Diploma take?
A: AOLL’s Access to HE Diploma is normally purchased with 12 months of study time. Students may complete it sooner, typically between 8-10 months if they meet the assessment requirements and agreed deadlines. Additional study time may be available subject to AOLL’s current terms and charges.
Q: Is an Access to HE Diploma equivalent to A Levels?
A: An Access to HE Diploma and A Levels are different Level 3 qualifications. The Access diploma is designed primarily for adults preparing to enter higher education and combines subject knowledge with academic study skills. It should not be described as identical to a particular number of A Levels.
Q: How do I choose the correct Access to HE pathway?
A: Students should begin with their intended degree or progression route and check its subject, credit, grade and GCSE requirements. They can then compare those requirements with the units and credits included in each AOLL pathway. Applicants should do this before enrolling rather than assuming that every pathway supports every degree.
Q: What can I study after completing an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma can support applications to a range of undergraduate degrees and other higher education programmes. The suitable progression routes depend on the diploma title, the units and subject credits completed, the grades achieved and any additional entry requirements set by the course provider. Read more...
Q: What will appear on my Access to HE Diploma certificate?
A: The certificate will show the formal Access to Higher Education Diploma title. The accompanying transcript will show the units, credits and grades completed.
Q: Can I do this diploma if I live outside the UK?
A: This QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma is validated for students living in the UK, including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Read more...
Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma recognised by QAA?
A: Yes. The Access to HE Diploma is a QAA-recognised qualification. QAA regulates the Access to HE Diploma through its Recognition Scheme. AOLL’s diplomas are awarded by Skills and Education Group Access, which is a QAA-licensed Access Validating Agency. To find our profile on the QAA website, click here. Read more...
Q: What does QAA stand for?
A: QAA stands for the Quality Assurance Agency. It is the organisation that safeguards quality and standards in UK colleges and universities so that students have the best possible learning experience. You can find more information here. Read more...
Q: Who is the awarding organisation for this course?
A: Our awarding organisation is Skills and Education Group Access. Read more...
Q: Do I need work experience before starting an Access to HE Diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require applicants to have previous employment or voluntary experience in their intended subject. Relevant experience may provide useful context, particularly for professional courses, but later training providers and employers may set their own requirements. Read more...
Q: Can an Access to HE Diploma support a degree-apprenticeship application?
A: The diploma provides Level 3 study that may support an application for a degree apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are employment-based, so applicants must also secure a suitable position and meet the employer’s recruitment and entry requirements.
University
Q: How do I apply to university while studying an Access to HE Diploma?
A: Most undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Students should research their intended courses, check the entry requirements and enter the unfinished Access to HE Diploma and units as pending. Students who link their application to AOLL can receive application support and an academic reference. Read more...
Q: Will I get help with my UCAS application?
A: Yes. As part of your course fees, AOLL provides support through one application cycle. This includes checking the three UCAS personal statement questions (introduced for 2026 applications onwards), and providing an academic reference. Where appropriate, Academy Online Learning can also provide information about your progress, completed units and grades achieved to date. Unfinished Access to HE qualifications and units are entered on UCAS as pending. We are a UCAS registered centre. Read more...
Q: Will my tutor give me a reference?
A: If you link your UCAS application to AOLL, we will automatically act as your referee and write the academic reference for you. If you would prefer to use a different referee, you will need to apply independently so that you can enter their details instead. Read more...
Q: Can I get a TOTUM card?
A: Yes. Students can apply directly online via TOTUM. Read more...
Getting Started
Q: When can I start this course?
A: You can start at any time during the year. Our provision allows learners to begin when it suits them, rather than only in September. Read more...
Q: Once I have completed the enrolment form, how do I get started?
A: Once your chosen payment option has been set up and accepted, you will be allocated a personal tutor who will contact you, talk you through the next steps, and help you get started. Read more...
Q: Do I have to pay to enrol?
A: No. There is no cost or commitment when you first enrol. An automated email will be sent to your inbox with further information about how the course works and what to expect as a student. Read more...
Q: Can I speak to somebody in Admissions?
A: Yes. You can call us on 0161 726 5970, email enquiries@academyonlinelearning.com, or visit Contact Us to send us a message. Read more...
Q: I have been out of education for many years. Have I left it too late for university?
A: No. The Access to HE Diploma is specifically designed for adult learners returning to education who do not have qualifications such as A Levels for university entry. There is no upper age limit. Read more...
Q: How do I enrol?
A: The registration form can be accessed at the top of the page or on the course page. You can also complete the contact form or send us a message via Contact Us. Read more...
Tutor Contact
Q: What tutor support will I receive while studying online?
A: Each student is allocated a personal tutor. Students can contact their tutor through the online messaging system and will normally receive a response within 24 hours, Monday to Friday. Tutors provide academic guidance, assignment feedback and support with progression. Read more...
Q: Do students feel isolated studying through distance learning?
A: Distance learning may not suit everyone, but there is strong support from tutors and staff throughout the course. Students past and present can also communicate with each other for advice on universities, bursaries, open days, careers, and more via the private Facebook group. Read more...
How Studying Online Works
Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma completely online?
A: Yes. AOLL’s Access to HE Diplomas are studied through an online virtual learning environment (VLE). Students access learning materials, submit assignments and communicate with their tutor online. There are no lessons to attend or exams to sit.
Q: How is the Access to HE Diploma assessed?
A: The diploma is assessed through assignments rather than examinations. Assessment tasks may include essays, reports, presentations and question-based assignments. Students must demonstrate the knowledge and assessment criteria required for each unit.
Q: How do I receive my learning materials and assignments?
A: Once enrolled, you will have access to your VLE dashboard where you can find all learning materials and assignments. Read more...
Q: What is the VLE?
A: The VLE is our virtual learning environment. It is where you access course materials, submit work, communicate with your tutor, and find additional guidance on UCAS, careers, moderation, and study support. Read more...
Q: What do I have to achieve to get an Access Diploma?
A: You must achieve 60 Level 3 credits in total. Of these, 45 credits are graded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Read more...
Q: Do I need to physically attend anywhere to take this course?
A: No. This course is fully distance learning. There are no classes or exams to attend in person, which can save time and travel costs. Read more...
Q: How are the courses assessed?
A: Assessment is through written assignments such as essays, reports, presentations, and question-based tasks. There are no exams. Assignments are worth 3, 6, or 9 credits, and the time allowed varies accordingly, although you can often submit earlier if you want to complete the course more quickly. 3 credits = 2 week to start the assignment and submit, 6 credits = 4 weeks and 9 credits = 6 weeks. Read more...
Q: Can I resubmit an assignment or improve a grade?
A: Once you achieve a pass or a merit grade you cannot resubmit, this is termed as 'polishing the grade' and the QAA do not allow resubmissions to gain a higher grade.
Q: How many hours per week will I need to study?
A: As a general guide, Skills and Education Group Access recommend around 10 study hours per credit. If you aim to complete the course in 12 months, this usually works out at around 12 hours per week on average. Read more...
Q: How difficult is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma is a Level 3 qualification and requires regular independent study, research and written assignment work. Students returning to education may initially find academic writing and time management challenging, but learning materials, tutor guidance and feedback are provided throughout the course.
Q: Can I take a short course for continuing professional development?
A: Yes. If you have been advised that fewer than 60 credits are needed for your progression, contact us to discuss the available options. Read more...
Q: What is moderation?
A: There are two types of moderation: internal and external. Internal moderation helps ensure that grading is fair and consistent, while external moderation by the awarding organisation confirms student achievement and leads to the final award of the diploma certificate. Read more...
Q: When is moderation?
A: External moderation for certification usually takes place in June or July for September university starters, and in November or December for January university starters. Read more...
Q: When do I receive my certificate?
A: Certificates are usually issued within four weeks of the Final Awards Board. Read more...
Q: What do grades and grading mean?
A: Graded units are awarded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Universities often specify how many Merits and Distinctions they expect applicants to achieve. You can use our UCAS Tariff Points calculator to work out what grades you may need for entry. Read more...
Q: How many UCAS Tariff points is an Access to HE Diploma worth?
A: UCAS Tariff points are awarded for the 45 graded Level 3 credits. The total depends on the combination of Pass, Merit and Distinction grades achieved. Achieving Distinction grades across all 45 graded credits is equivalent to 144 UCAS Tariff points.
Q: Do universities accept online Access to HE Diplomas?
A: Many UK higher education providers accept QAA-recognised Access to HE Diplomas, including diplomas completed through distance learning. Acceptance is not automatic. Individual courses may require a particular diploma title, subject-credit profile, number of Merit or Distinction credits, GCSEs or relevant experience. Read more...
Q: Can I study an Access to HE Diploma while working full-time?
A: Yes. The online format allows students to organise their studies around employment and other responsibilities. However, students must allow enough time for reading, research and assignments. Someone aiming to complete within 12 months should plan for approximately 12 hours of study each week on average.
Q: Can I extend or pause my course?
A: We understand that personal circumstances can change, and this course is designed to be flexible. We offer the opportunity to put your course on hold for a minimum of one month and up to 12 months which enables you to freeze your course and save your study days. Read more...
If you need additional time to complete the course you can purchase the course extension fee option.
Q: What computer equipment and software will I need?
A: You will need a reliable laptop or desktop computer with an internet connection. A current web browser and word-processing software will also be required to access course materials, conduct research and complete and upload assignments. We have access to free word-processing software if you do not have this on your computer.
Funding
Q: If I want to stop my course, do I still have to pay?
A: The monthly payment option is designed to help learners manage the financial side of studying. These are not monthly study payments, but part of an agreement to pay the full course amount. Read more...
Payment Options
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£1320 including registration fees
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