BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Business

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Business supports progression into relevant occupational areas or further study at degree level. Expanding on the Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Business, the units enable greater specialisation in business, allowing students to apply theory and practice in complex contexts, develop critical evaluation and problem-solving skills, and make informed decisions. It prepares learners for roles requiring personal responsibility while building a strong understanding of specialist principles and their wider application in the business world.

The BTEC Level 5 HND course is delivered over 2.5 days. 

Units in Level 5 (Year 2): 

• Global Business Environment  
• Marketing Insights and Analytics 
• Employee Relations 
• Business Strategy  
• Organisational Behaviour Management  
• International Marketing 
• Research Project (A) 
• Research Project (B) 

Assessment Criteria 

BTEC Higher Nationals in Business are assessed using a combination of internally assessed centre-devised assignments (set and marked by centres) and internally assessed Pearson-set assignments (set by Pearson and marked by centres). Pearson-set assignments are mandatory and target particular industry-specific skills. The number and value of these units are dependent on qualification size:

For the HND, one Core, 30-credit unit at Level 5 will be assessed by a mandatory Pearson-set assignment targeting particular skills.

All other units are assessed by Centre-devised internal assignments.

Course Teaching Method – Assessment through assignments

We’re committed to excellence in teaching methods and providing the very best learning environments and materials for you. This means you’ll learn from leading teachers who are experts in their field.

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Business offers students a broad introduction to the subject area via a mandatory core of learning, while allowing for the acquisition of skills and experience through the selection of optional units across a range of occupational sectors at Level 5.

Flexible learning– new adaptation to changing culture of learning a flexible learning will allow students to be prepared for the increasing digital world. UKBC introduction to digital enhancement, such as textbooks, and professional screen recordings and online library continue to improve the new delivery methods.

Face to face delivery– A qualified lecturer will conduct a classroom-based seminar or tutorial session, where the topic will be presented through a presentation or demonstration. The session will include an open discussion on the relevant topics or theories.

Independent studies– Students are expected to take responsibility for your own learning and will need to manage your time effectively to fit this around your academic timetable. Through independent study, students are able to consolidate previous learning and prepare for future topics; extend learning in the classroom and assess progress towards their targets; receive feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of their work in each subject area and develop the skills they will need to in preparation.

Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals consist of core units, specialist units and optional units:

• Core and specialist units are mandatory
• Specialist units are designed to provide a specific occupational focus to the qualification and are aligned to Professional Body standards
• BTEC Higher Nationals in Business are assessed using a combination of internally assessed centre-devised internal assignments. The assessment are due by end of each module.

An assignment is issued to students as an assignment brief with a hand-out date, a completion date and clear requirements for the evidence that students are expected to provide. An assignment is separate from teaching, practice, exploration and other activities that students complete with direction from and, formative assessment by, tutors.

Entry Requirement

We encourage applications from people with a variety of backgrounds at UKBC. We would be pleased to review your application on an individual basis if you have recently been in education or are returning after a long time.

Application based on Previous qualifications:

• A BTEC Level 3 in Business
• GCE Advanced level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades A* to C (or equivalent) and/or 9 to 4 (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English.
• Other related Level 3 qualifications
• An Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution.
• Relevant work experience or;
• An international equivalent to the above qualifications.

Mature learner 21+

Through our assessment-based admissions process, mature applicants over the age of 21 without qualifications must demonstrate how their prior experiences are relevant to the course they have chosen. We will take into account your prior experiences (job, volunteer, life, and other experiences) that are relevant to the course.

You will be required to provide the following:

• Demonstrate two or more years+ of UK work experience.
• Provide a Personal Statement.
• For applicants from non-majority English speaking countries will be required to undertake an assessment of reading and writing.
• Complete a SAPE Assessment (Screening for Accreditation of Prior Experience).
• Applicants will also be invited to attend an Interview.

English Language Requirements:

Applicants applying for a Pearson BTEC Higher National qualification at UKBC is taught and assessed in English. Therefore, all applicants are expected to have a certain level of English language skills.

Applicants from non-majority English speaking countries will be required to undertake an assessment of reading and writing proficiency. Applicants are expected to score no less than IELTS 5.5 in each of these components.

For more information related to our Admissions Process, please visit https://ukbusinesscollege.org/students/how-to-apply/

Study and Careers Progression

BTEC Higher Nationals are internationally-recognised higher education qualifications at level 4 that are equivalent to the first year of a university degree, providing progression to both university and employment.

Employability Skills:

Your studies will give you a rounded understanding of the varied requirements of running a business. You will cover topics including:

• • Human resource management
  • Finance and accounting
  • Marketing
  • Operations management
  • ICT
  • Recruitment
  • Operations Management

What can I do after the courses?

Graduates from this course can find employment in multiple sectors and in roles such as:

• • Marketing assistant
  • Salesperson
  • Junior data analysis
  • Human resources assistant
  • Retail manager
  • Finance
  • Sales promotion
  • Administration

The Careers Service officers offers support and advise through your time in UKBC, to help you make the most of your time here and best prepare for your future.

Dates and Fees:

Starting Date: September and March

Tuition Fees: £6,000 per Year

Please note that for entries from Academic Year 2026/27 onwards, the tuition fees for this course will increase to £6,350 per year.