Extended Diploma in Strategic Management (Managing People)

Admission Requirements

• Typical Age: 19+
• Prior Qualifications: Completion of Level 6 studies in a related field, such as a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, or equivalent qualification.
• Professional Experience: In certain cases, applicants with at least 5 years’ management experience may be considered.
• International Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may include:
  • A recognised undergraduate degree in business or a related discipline.
  • An approved Level 6 or equivalent professional qualification.
• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS 5.5, CEFR level B2, or equivalent.
• Additional Guidance: For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

• Total Credits: 120 ECTS
• Modules: 5 core units and 3 managing people pathyway units are required to complete the qualification.

Core Modules

1. Strategic Planning (15 credits): Develops skills in organisational strategy formulation, implementation, and evaluation.
2. Finance for Strategic Managers (15 credits): Explores financial decision-making, budgeting, and financial strategy in senior management roles.
3. Research for Strategic Development (15 credits): Develops research skills required for strategic decision-making and organisational development.
4. Organisational Behaviour (15 credits): Examines leadership, motivation, culture, and behavioural dynamics within organisations.
5. Personal Development for Leadership and Strategic Management (15 credits): Focuses on self-leadership, professional growth, and strategic leadership competencies.

Managing People Pathway Units

1. Developing Organisational Vision and Strategic Direction (15 Credits): Focuses on creating vision, mission, and long-term strategic direction aligned with organisational goals.
2. Strategic Human Resource Management (15 Credits): Explores advanced HR strategy, workforce planning, talent management, and people development.
3. Managing Continuous Organisational Improvement (15 Credits): Develops skills in change management, performance improvement, and continuous development strategies.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you'll develop. See the full curriculum below.

View Curriculum

Assessment and  Regulations 

Assessment Approach

Each unit is assessed through structured, assignment-based coursework designed to measure both theoretical understanding and practical application of strategic management concepts. Assessments consist of:

• Written Assignments: Required for each unit, evaluating learners’ ability to analyse strategic issues, apply leadership frameworks, and demonstrate advanced critical thinking.
• Applied Case Studies and Strategic Tasks: Real-world business scenarios designed to test problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning skills.

Grading System

This qualification is criteria-referenced and graded as:

• Pass / Fail

To achieve a Pass, learners must meet all learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit.

Completion Requirements

Learners must successfully complete all eight units. Assessments are subject to internal and external quality assurance by Awarding Body.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• An MBA programme, with possible exemptions depending on university entry requirements.
• A Master’s Top-Up programme (subject to university validation).
• A Doctorate (PhD or Professional Doctorate), where entry requirements are met.
• Further specialist postgraduate qualifications in strategic management or human resource leadership.

Employment Opportunities:

This qualification prepares graduates for senior-level roles such as:

• Strategic Manager
• Operations Director
• Human Resource Director
• Business Development Manager
• Organisational Development Consultant
• Change Management Specialist
• Senior Project Manager

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• Advanced assignments and case studies develop strategic leadership capability.
• Learners build expertise in decision-making, change management, financial strategy, and people management.
• The qualification enhances readiness for leadership roles in dynamic and global business environments.