Affordable Global MBA
 Unlock Your Potential with Kent Business College and Cardiff Metropolitan University
Our OTHM Diploma level 7 is accepted by
Affordable Global MBA
Elevate your career with the Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, designed for senior professionals who are looking to develop their strategic thinking, leadership, and management skills. This advanced qualification equips you with the expertise to lead and implement complex business strategies, manage teams effectively, and drive organisational growth. The programme focuses on enhancing your ability to make informed decisions, manage change, and lead with innovation, all while addressing the strategic needs of your organisation. Delivered by Kent Business College and supported by the Department for Education funding framework*, this programme provides a solid foundation for senior leadership roles in various industries.
Our OTHM Diploma level 7 is accepted by
Apprenticeship Programs
Our industry-recognised apprenticeship programs combine workplace learning with academic study, providing a direct pathway to professional qualifications.
Programmes
Diploma Level 7 in Strategy and Leadership (MBA)
level 7
- 18 months
- MBA
Empower your senior leaders with the Level 7 Diploma in Strategy and Leadership, accredited by OTHM. This programme not only sharpens strategic thinking and leadership capability but also offers a direct MBA Top-Up pathway with Cardiff Metropolitan University – giving your organisation world-class leadership talent at minimal cost.
- Next intake: October 2025
Comprehensive Learning​
Gain skills across all key areas of strategic management, from leadership and marketing to finance and research.
Expert Guidance
Learn from tutors with real-world experience in strategic management and leadership.
Flexible Online Learning
Study at your own pace with optional face-to-face workshops in major UK cities.
Global Recognition
The Level 7 Diploma is a globally recognised qualification that can propel your career in senior management and leadership roles.
Career progression
Build towards Progression to MBA and specialist digital roles.
Why employers and learners choose this programme
Two pathways One goal: measurable project value.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop comprehensive strategic management skills to drive long-term business success across industries.
- Master strategic HR management, focusing on talent retention, organisational culture, and aligning HR strategies with business objectives.
- Cultivate advanced strategic leadership capabilities, including managing teams, driving change, and making high-impact decisions.
- Gain financial management expertise to make informed decisions that enhance profitability and ensure long-term sustainability.
- Learn how to craft effective marketing strategies to improve market visibility and strengthen your organisation’s position in competitive environments.
- Master business research techniques to provide data-driven insights that inform strategic decision-making.
Key Topics Covered
- Organisational Strategy & Competitive Advantage
Learn to evaluate market forces and competitive landscapes, and develop strategies to position your organisation for success. - HR Strategy & Organisational Culture
Understand how to build and sustain a high-performance culture through strategic HR management and talent development. - Leadership and Change Management
Develop the leadership mindset and skills required to lead teams through periods of organisational change and growth. - Financial Decision-Making & Risk Management
Learn financial analysis, budget management, and risk mitigation techniques essential for long-term business sustainability. - Market Research & Consumer Insights
Use market research tools to develop data-driven marketing strategies that enhance customer engagement and business performance. - Advanced Research Methods
Master qualitative and quantitative research methods to conduct business analysis that supports strategic decisions.
Module Breakdown
Module 1: Strategic Management
Ideal for: Senior managers, directors, and leaders looking to refine their strategic thinking and decision-making abilities
- (16 weeks)
Module 2: Strategic Human Resource Management
Ideal for: HR managers, senior managers, and leaders aiming to drive organisational growth through effective human resource strategies.
- (16 weeks)
Module 3: Strategic Leadership
Ideal for: Senior leaders, executives, and those seeking to develop their leadership capabilities to manage dynamic teams and organisations.
- (16 weeks)
Module 4: Strategic Financial Management
Ideal for: Financial managers, senior managers, and leaders who need to make informed financial decisions that drive business success.
- (16 weeks)
Module 5: Strategic Marketing
Ideal for: Senior marketing managers, strategists, and leaders aiming to elevate their marketing strategies and drive business growth.
- (16 weeks)
Module 6: Advanced Business Research Methods
Ideal for: Managers, leaders, and professionals looking to build expertise in business research and data analysis to inform high-level decision-making.
- (16 weeks)
About
Strategic Management
Gain expertise in strategic financial decision-making, financial analysis, and risk management. Learn how to interpret financial data and apply it to enhance profitability, optimise resources, and ensure the long-term financial sustainability of your organisation.
- Strategic Environment Analysis
- Strategic Options Development
- Strategy Implementation Approaches
- Change Management in Strategy
- Monitoring and Evaluation of Strategy
Key Topics
- External influences on organisational strategy.
- Strategic options for organisations.
- Tools and approaches to strategy implementation.
- Strategic organisational change management.
- Monitoring and control of strategic plans.
Subjects
Learning Outcomes
Analyse key external influences on an organisation’s strategy.
1.1 Critically evaluate the position of an organisation in it’s current market.
1.2 Critically analyse the effects of existing plans on an organisation.
Appraise strategic options for an organisation.
2.1 Critically explore the relationship between, corporate,
business and operational strategies.
2.2 Apply strategic models and tools to develop strategic
options for an organisation.
2.3 Evaluate strategic options for an organisation.
Evaluate various tools and approaches to a strategy implementation plan.
3.1 Create a relevant vision, mission and strategic goals for
an organisation.
3.2 Propose a suitable structure for an organisation that fits
a strategic plan.
3.3 Create a resourced strategy implementation plan.
Develop and implement a strategic organisational change management plan.
4.1 Apply force field analysis to effectively distinguish forces
of change.
4.2 Critically evaluate various change management models.
4.3 Identify relevant leadership and change agent skills to
implement a strategic change in an organisation.
Be able to monitor and control the implementation of strategic plans
5.1 Develop a monitoring and control system for the
implementation of strategic plans.
5.2 Design key success indicators in order to monitor
the implementation of the strategic plan.
5.3 Distinguish potential risks during implementation.
5.4 Review the effectiveness of the strategic plan
KSBs
Knowledge
- sUnderstand external influences on organisational strategy.
- Know models and tools for developing and appraising strategic options.
- Understand approaches and structures for strategy implementation.
- Know change management models and leadership roles in organisational change.
- Understand methods for monitoring, controlling, and evaluating strategic plans.
Skills
- Critically evaluate organisational position and existing plans.
- Apply models and tools to generate and assess strategic options.
- Create vision, mission, and structured strategic plans.
- Use force field analysis to distinguish drivers and barriers of change.
- Design KPIs and monitoring systems for implementation.
- Identify and manage risks during execution of strategy.
BehavioursÂ
- Demonstrate critical thinking and evidence-based decision making.
- Show adaptability when evaluating and implementing change.
- Take accountability for creating and resourcing strategies.
- Act with leadership and collaboration when driving strategic change.
- Maintain focus on continuous improvement through monitoring and review.
About
Strategic Human Resource Management
Learn to develop, manage, and lead HR strategies that are aligned with your organisation’s overall goals. This module focuses on talent acquisition, retention, and developing a positive organisational culture that enhances workforce productivity and business performance.
Subjects
- Role of Human Resource Management
- Human Resource Planning
- Legal and Ethical Issues in HR Policy
- Human Resource Strategies
- HRM Approaches and Organisational Performance
Key Topics
- Role of Human Resource Management.
- Human Resource Planning.
- Legal and Ethical Issues in HR Policy
- Human Resource Strategies.
- HRM Approaches and Organisational Performance.
Learning Outcomes
Understand the role of management of human resources.
1.1 Critically justify the importance of human resource
management in organisations.
1.2 Assess the role and purpose of the strategic human
resource management function and activities in an
organisation.
1.3 Evaluate how human resource management is related to
other functional areas.
Create a human resource plan for an organisation.
2.1 Assess the business factors to consider before human
resource planning. Â
2.2 Determine human resource requirements in different
organisational contexts.
2.3 Develop a human resource plan for an organisation.
Understand the role of legal and ethical issues in developing human resources policy.
3.1 Explain the purpose of human resource policy.
3.2 Assess the impact of regulatory and legal requirements
on human resource policies in an organisation.
3.3 Assess the impact of business ethics, CSR, and
sustainability requirements on human resource policies for
an organisation.
Plan develop human resource strategies.
4.1 Critically analyse the impact of an organisational strategy,
structure and culture on the management of human
resources.
4.2 Develop a structured, relevant and comprehensive HR
strategy.
4.3 Critically monitor the effectiveness of human resources
management.
Understand HRM approaches within organisations and their relationships with organisational performance.
5.1 Critically evaluate the relationships between business
strategy and human resource management.
5.2 Explain the implementation and measurement of HR
approaches using relevant metrics.
5.3 Monitor and evaluate a human resource strategy that
supports organisational mission, vision, values and
objectives.
KSBs
Knowledge
- Understand the role and importance of human resource management.
- Know HR planning processes and influencing business factors.
- Understand legal, ethical, CSR, and sustainability issues in HR policy.
- Know approaches to HR strategy development and implementation.
- Understand the relationship between HRM and organisational performance.
Skills
- Critically evaluate HRM roles, functions, and integration with other functions.
- Assess HR requirements across organisational contexts.
- Develop HR plans and strategies aligned with business needs.
- Apply and interpret legal and ethical requirements in HR policy.
- Monitor and evaluate HR strategies using performance metrics.
BehavioursÂ
- Demonstrate ethical awareness in HR policy and practice.
- Act with accountability when designing and implementing HR strategies.
- Show adaptability in responding to organisational culture and structural needs.
- Apply evidence-based judgement in HR planning and evaluation.
- Maintain focus on aligning HRM with organisational mission and values.
About
Strategic Leadership
Cultivate advanced leadership skills, including visionary thinking, effective communication, and ethical leadership. This module helps you lead teams effectively, manage organisational change, and make impactful decisions that support business objectives.
Subjects
- Principles and Approaches to Leadership
- Leadership Influence on People and Teams
- Leadership and Organisational Performance
- Ethical and Responsible Leadership
Key Topics
- Principles and Approaches to Leadership.
- Leadership Influence on Individuals, Teams, and Organisations.
- Impact of Leadership on Organisational Performance.
- Ethical Leadership and Organisational Value.
Learning Outcomes
Understand the principles, concepts, differences, and approaches to leadership.
1.1 Explain the meaning and importance of leadership.
1.2 Contrast the main approaches to the study of leadership.
1.3 Critically evaluate the role of leadership in strategic
management.
Understand how leadership influences individuals, teams and the organisation.
2.1 Critically compare the relationships between leaders of
work groups, and leaders of teams.
2.2 Distinguish between the influence of leadership on
groups and teams, and on formal and informal groups.
2.3 Critically evaluate the characteristics of an effective work
group and team.
Understand the impact of leadership on organisational performance.
3.1 Assess the nature of organisation effectiveness and
performance.
3.2 Critically explore the main features and requirements of
leadership development.
3.3 Provide criteria for assessing an organisations strategic
effectiveness from a leadership perspective.
Understand ethical decision making and organisational value.
4.1 Critically explore the exercise of leadership power and
influence.
4.2 Critically review the importance of ethics, values and
corporate social responsibilities to an organisations value.
4.3 Critically evaluate leadership and sustainability concepts
and trends.
KSBs
Knowledge
- Understand principles, concepts, and approaches to leadership.
- Know how leadership influences individuals, teams, and organisational dynamics.
- Understand the impact of leadership on organisational effectiveness and performance.
- Know ethical, value-based, and sustainability aspects of leadership.
Skills
- Explain, contrast, and critically evaluate leadership approaches.
- Analyse leader–team and leader–group relationships in different contexts.
- Assess organisational effectiveness and criteria for leadership development.
- Apply ethical frameworks, CSR, and sustainability concepts in leadership decisions.
BehavioursÂ
- Demonstrate evidence-based judgement in leadership evaluation.
- Act ethically with awareness of organisational values and responsibilities.
- Show adaptability when applying leadership across diverse groups and contexts.
- Maintain accountability for organisational performance and long-term value.
About
Strategic Financial Management
Gain expertise in strategic financial decision-making, financial analysis, and risk management. Learn how to interpret financial data and apply it to enhance profitability, optimise resources, and ensure the long-term financial sustainability of your organisation.
Subjects
- Cost Accounting Techniques
- Financial Performance Analysis
- Budgetary Processes
- Sources of Funding
- Investment Appraisal
Key Topics
- Cost Accounting Tools and Techniques
- Financial Performance Analysis
- Budgetary Processes and Control
- Sources of Business Funding
- Investment Appraisal and Decision Making
Learning Outcomes
To apply the tools and techniques of cost accounting.
1.1 Critically evaluate the position of an organisation in it’s current market.
1.2 Critically analyse the effects of existing plans on an organisation.
To critically analyse the financial performance of businesses.
2.1 Critically explore the relationship between, corporate,
business and operational strategies.
2.2 Apply strategic models and tools to develop strategic
options for an organisation.
2.3 Evaluate strategic options for an organisation.
To evaluate the budgetary processes of organisations.
3.1 Create a relevant vision, mission and strategic goals for
an organisation.
3.2 Propose a suitable structure for an organisation that fits
a strategic plan.
3.3 Create a resourced strategy implementation plan.
To recommend effective long term and short-term sources of funding.
4.1 Apply force field analysis to effectively distinguish forces
of change.
4.2 Critically evaluate various change management models.
4.3 Identify relevant leadership and change agent skills to
implement a strategic change in an organisation.
To critically appraise investment options.
5.1 Develop a monitoring and control system for the
implementation of strategic plans.
5.2 Design key success indicators in order to monitor
the implementation of the strategic plan.
5.3 Distinguish potential risks during implementation.
5.4 Review the effectiveness of the strategic plan
KSBs
Knowledge
- Understanding of key financial and marketing metrics (ROI/ROMI, CAC, CLV, revenue, margin, break-even).
- Knowledge of data analysis methods (social/web analytics, competitor analysis, customer behaviour analysis, testing methodologies).
- Awareness of resource management principles (5 Ms, MarTech, allocation, audits, efficiency).
- Understanding of budgeting methods (sero-based, activity-based, incremental, flexible, top-down/bottom-up).
- Knowledge of forecasting techniques (predictive modelling, regression, time series, variance analysis).
- Awareness of how to build and present business cases (risks, benefits, stakeholders, ROMI, success factors).Â
Skills
- Ability to interpret financial and marketing data to uncover insights.
- Skill in measuring and monitoring performance with KPIs, dashboards, and analytics.
- Competence in applying forecasting and budgeting techniques to manage resources.
- Skill in prioritising activities and expenditure to achieve marketing objectives.
- Ability to use data-driven insights to support decision-making in acquisition, retention, and engagement.
- Skill in collaboration, communication, and presenting business cases to stakeholders.
BehavioursÂ
- Acting with commercial awareness in resource allocation and decision-making.
- Demonstrating data-led, evidence-based thinking in marketing strategy.
- Commitment to continuous improvement through monitoring and feedback.
- Maintaining ethical and responsible use of resources.
- Displaying accountability and adaptability when managing budgets and resources.
About
Strategic Marketing
Develop sophisticated marketing strategies informed by market research, consumer insights, digital innovation, and competitive analysis. Learn to design and implement strategies that enhance organisational visibility, market position, and profitability.
Subjects
- Marketing Impact (CIM topic)Â
- Integrated Campaigns (CIM Topics)
- Marketting Campaigns Project Managment (Exective)
Key Topics
- Role and Purpose of Marketing
- Scope of Marketing Activities
- Marketing Environment Analysis
- Marketing Data and Insights
- Buyer Behaviour
- Marketing Planning
- Implementation & Control of Marketing Plans
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the purpose and contribution of marketing to the organisation
- Understand the factors and trends in the marketing environment and how they impact on marketing decision-making
- Recognise what influences buyer behaviour in various contexts
- Understand how to develop an effective marketing plan
- Understand how to effectively manage the implementation and control of the marketing plan
KSBs
Knowledge
- Role & Purpose of Marketing: Philosophy, culture, customer-centricity, value creation, agility, competitive advantage.
- Marketing Environment: PESTEL, Porter’s Five Forces, internal analysis, market audit, stakeholder analysis.
- Market & Customer Insights: Primary and secondary research, qualitative & quantitative methods, data analysis, forecasting, insight generation.
- Buyer Behaviour: B2B vs B2C, decision-making processes, customer journey, influences (psychological, social, cultural), segmentation, targeting, positioning.
- Marketing Planning: SMART objectives, Ansoff Matrix, BCG Matrix, SOSTAC©, marketing mix (7Ps), sustainable/responsible marketing.
- Channels & Content: Online/offline channels, communication strategies, content for awareness, consideration, conversion, retention.
- Implementation & Control: Budgeting, resource alignment, supplier management, internal marketing, roles & responsibilities.
- Measurement & Metrics: KPIs, analytic tools, actionable vs vanity metrics, continuous improvement.
Skills
- Conducting marketing audits and analysing environmental factors.
- Collecting, appraising, and analysing data to generate insights.
- Building customer profiles, personas, and applying segmentation models.
- Developing effective marketing plans and tactical frameworks.
- Creating integrated marketing mixes tailored to objectives.
- Selecting and justifying appropriate communication channels and content.
- Managing marketing resources, budgets, and stakeholder relationships.
- Measuring, monitoring, and reporting marketing effectiveness.
- Applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and structured planning (SOSTAC, SWOT, TOWS).
BehavioursÂ
- Customer-Centric Mindset: Always focusing on value and satisfaction.
- Agility & Flexibility: Adapting to changing trends, technologies, and environments.
- Analytical Thinking: Using data-driven insights for decision-making.
- Collaboration: Cross-functional working with HR, finance, sales, production, suppliers, and agencies.
- Professionalism: Ethical, responsible, and sustainable marketing practices.
- Accountability: Working with measurable objectives and continuous improvement.
- Innovation & Growth Orientation: Spotting opportunities, developing new products, and embracing digital.
About
Advanced Business Research Meth
Acquire advanced research skills, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Learn to conduct impactful research that supports strategic business decisions and enhances organisational performance.
Subjects
- Marketing Performance Metrics
- Managing Marketing Resources
- Forecasting & Financial Techniques for Marketing Budgets
Key Topics
- Financial and marketing metrics (Revenue, Profit, Margin, ROI/ROMI, CAC, CLV, COGS, Break-even).
- Marketing performance insights (product portfolio, market share, competitor, social & web analytics).
- Customer behaviour analysis (feedback, digital analytics, A/B & multivariate testing, attribution).
- Managing resources with data (5 Ms, MarTech, insights for acquisition, retention, engagement).Â
- Allocating and auditing resources (objectives, prioritisation, risk analysis, continuous improvement).Â
- Budgeting methods (sero-based, activity-based, incremental, priority, flexible, top-down/bottom-up).
- Forecasting techniques (predictive modelling, regression, time series, variance analysis).
- Building business cases (strategy alignment, risks, benefits, stakeholders, ROMI, CSFs, Gantt).
- Optimising spend across channels using attribution and ROMI analysis.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the metrics used to measure marketing performance.
- Understand how to manage marketing resources to meet marketing objectives.
- Understand how forecasting and financial techniques support the marketing budget.
KSBs
Knowledge
- Understanding of key financial and marketing metrics (ROI/ROMI, CAC, CLV, revenue, margin, break-even).
- Knowledge of data analysis methods (social/web analytics, competitor analysis, customer behaviour analysis, testing methodologies).
- Awareness of resource management principles (5 Ms, MarTech, allocation, audits, efficiency).
- Understanding of budgeting methods (sero-based, activity-based, incremental, flexible, top-down/bottom-up).
- Knowledge of forecasting techniques (predictive modelling, regression, time series, variance analysis).
- Awareness of how to build and present business cases (risks, benefits, stakeholders, ROMI, success factors).Â
Skills
- Ability to interpret financial and marketing data to uncover insights.
- Skill in measuring and monitoring performance with KPIs, dashboards, and analytics.
- Competence in applying forecasting and budgeting techniques to manage resources.
- Skill in prioritising activities and expenditure to achieve marketing objectives.
- Ability to use data-driven insights to support decision-making in acquisition, retention, and engagement.
- Skill in collaboration, communication, and presenting business cases to stakeholders.
BehavioursÂ
- Acting with commercial awareness in resource allocation and decision-making.
- Demonstrating data-led, evidence-based thinking in marketing strategy.
- Commitment to continuous improvement through monitoring and feedback.
- Maintaining ethical and responsible use of resources.
- Displaying accountability and adaptability when managing budgets and resources.
Your business grows when your people grow
Discover how our tailored training programs can help your employees gain new skills and drive business success. In this information session, we’ll walk you through funding options, course structures, and the measurable benefits for your company.
Princing Plan
Online Pre-recorded
Access to high quality education-
432 recorded 20 minutes sessions + 10 MCQ test after each session
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Access to +100 real life case studies
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Access to all webinars for 1 year for free
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Original Printed or soft copy material (6 handbooks)
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Access to academic publications of the staff
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Free membership of Kent Business College
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Free access to the business and Management Magazine
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Whats App study group
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Attend our study group meetings on Zoom bi-weekly
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Certificate from IBIS Consultancy of Achievement
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No OTHM/Ofqual Certificate
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No Face to Face Experience
Face to Face
Best learning experience-
All online pre-reorded option benefits
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160 Hours face to face lectures
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Workshops and events in one of our locations in London, Birmingham, Dubahi, Cario, Riyadh
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No OTHM/Ofqual certificate
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OTHM Exams
Level 7 Diploma in Strategy & Leadership-
All of the benefits of face to face
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OTHM/Ofqual Certificate to progress to MBA
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Not MBA
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MBA Programme
Cardiff Metropolitan Uni-
All of the benefits of the OTHM exams
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Allocated supervisor from Cardiff Metropolitan University.
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Full MBA from the Cardiff Metropolitan University
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Attend University of the Cardiff Metropolitan University Graduation Ceremony in Cardiff
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PhD in Strategic Projects from Cranfield University
Diploma in Research Methodologies from Cambridge University
PhD in Strategic Projects from Cranfield University
Dr Trevor Gerhardt SFHEA (DipTh, BA, PgCertHE, MA, EdD). Reader (Ass Prof) and Director of Studies for Higher Degree Apprenticeships at Kent Business School
Former Director of Studied of MSc in Management at the University of Kent
Co-Director of the MEng programme Green Engineering and Sustainable Management
PhD in Marketing from the University of Kent
Former director of studies of the Apprenticeship Programme at Kent Business School
PhD from Durham University. Director of Studies of the MSc in Healthcare at Kent Business School
PhD from Aston Business School
Authors of many professional handbooks in Human Resources Management
Our Academics
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our MBA program.
What is OTHM Level Qualification?
Who Regulates OTHM?
- OTHM Is regulated and approved by Ofqual (the UK Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation)
- OTHM is a recognised Awarding Body by Qualifications Wales.
Why Should I study OTHM Qualifications?
- OTHM graduates are accepted into corresponding degree and masters topup programmes with advanced standing.
- An affordable pathway to a UK degree and masters (top-up) programme than the universities.
- The curriculum has a combination of academic and professional elements.
- Learners will gain the professional skills expected by global employers.
- Option to become a professional member upon completion of certain level of our qualifications.
- Increase potential for international career opportunities.
Can I study this program online and at my own pace, without attending face-to-face workshops?
optional.
Will my certificate indicate whether I attended the course online or face-to-face?
No, the certificate does not specify the method of delivery. It will solely acknowledge the
completion of the program, without reference to the mode of attendance.