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The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Business and Management (120 credit) is a foundational qualification designed for learners who want to develop a strong understanding of business principles and management practices. This level introduces students to essential concepts such as organisational structures, business communication, marketing, human resources, and financial fundamentals.
It equips learners with practical and academic skills including problem-solving, decision-making, research, and teamwork. Completion of Level 3 prepares students for progression to ATHE Level 4 Diploma in Business and Management, other foundation programmes, or entry-level roles in business environments.
Minimum education: O-Levels, Matric, GCSEs, or equivalent.
Minimum age: 16 years or above.
Basic English reading and writing skills.
Standard Pathway
Duration: 6-8 months per level
Ideal for students who prefer a steady, structured pace with regular support and guidance.
Fast-Track Pathway
Duration: Based on prior educational background
Eligible students may complete the level in a shorter time
Learning Modes Available
On-Campus Classroom Sessions
Learn in a structured environment with face-to-face teaching, peer interaction, and classroom support.
Online / Distance Learning
Flexible, self-paced learning through our online platform-perfect for working professionals or students outside the city.
Blended Mode (Hybrid)
A combination of online learning and on-campus sessions.
Ideal for students who want flexibility without compromising in-person support.
Unit 1 Business Environment 10 Credits Mandatory
In this unit learners will gain knowledge and understanding of the environment in which organizations operate. This will support understanding of the different and often complex contexts in which organizations function.
Unit 2 How Businesses and Organizations Work 10 Credits Mandatory
This unit will provide an overview of key aspects of business. Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of business objectives and structure, customer service, and resource requirements.
Unit 3 Business Communication 10 Credits Mandatory
To develop knowledge, skills and understanding of communication theory and the importance of effective communication in business.
Unit 4 Working in Teams 10 Credits Mandatory
Learners will gain knowledge and understanding of teams and team roles. There is also an opportunity for learners to develop their own employability skills.
Unit 5 Market Research 20 Credits Mandatory
Learners will apply the principles to complete a market research project. They will also develop their research skills by applying these to the completion of the chosen market research project.
Unit 6 Introduction to Financial Controls in Business 15 Credits Mandatory
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of budgets, budgetary control, costings, cash flow, and basic ratio analysis. They will have the opportunity to construct simple budgets and cashflows.
Unit 7 Leading and Managing People 15 Credits Mandatory
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the concepts, principles and skills needed to lead and manage people.
Unit 8 Principles of Marketing and Sales 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles of marketing and sales. Learners will also begin to gain the skills required to undertake marketing activities. Learners will have the opportunity to apply the principles and use the skills to complete a marketing mix plan.
Unit 9 Human Resources 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the HR function including recruitment, selection, retention, monitoring and development of employees
Unit 10 Organizational Strategy 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of strategic issues in business such as vision, mission and growth. Learners will also be introduced to organizational growth, organizational culture, how information is used and how change is managed.
Unit 11 Online Marketing 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of online marketing. They will have the opportunity to create content for a social media platform.
Unit 12 International Business 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of how businesses trade internationally, the benefits and costs to a business of trading internationally and the barriers to trading internationally.
Unit 13 Project Management 15 Credits Optional
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of project management. They will develop project management skills through the planning of a business-related project.
Progression to ATHE Level 4 Diploma in Business and Management: Prepares learners for advanced topics in management, marketing, and organizational strategy.
Entry into related Level 4 programmes: Learners may also explore fields like Hospitality, Finance, or Human Resources.
University Foundation or Degree Programmes: Level 3 provides a stepping stone for foundation years or first-year university entry.
Administrative Assistant / Office Coordinator: Supporting organisational operations and daily management tasks.
Customer Service / Sales Support Roles: Using business awareness to support clients and internal teams.
Junior Marketing or HR Support: Assisting with campaigns, recruitment, or employee engagement.
Pathway to Management Roles: Provides a foundation for progression into supervisory, managerial, or specialist roles after completing higher-level qualifications.
Students who complete ATHE Level 3 and then progress to ATHE Level 4/5 Diplomas may become eligible to study at the following international universities and colleges:
Bangor University (United Kingdom)
Cambridge Education Group (United Kingdom)
Ulster University (United Kingdom)
University of Bedfordshire (United Kingdom)
University of Portsmouth (United Kingdom)
University of Westminster (United Kingdom)
Griffith College (Ireland)
Limerick Institute of Technology (Ireland)
Central University (Ghana)
George Brown College (Canada)
Carlow Institute of Technology (Ireland)
No Exams - Assignment-Based Assessment
Learn through real-world business case studies, projects, and research instead of traditional exams.
Choose On-Campus ,Online, or Blended Learning based on your lifestyle and commitments.
Affordable & Accessible
Study the UK pathway locally with a cost-effective structure and flexible payment options.
Dedicated Academic Support
Our mentors and instructors guide you throughout your learning journey - from your first class to your UK top-up application.
EdSkills offers flexible and affordable fee options for ATHE Level 4, Level 5, and UK Top-Up pathways.
Flexible Payment Options
Monthly installments
Quarterly payments
Discounts for full upfront payment
Scholarships and early-bird offers (subject to eligibility)
What’s Included
Tuition & learning sessions
Online learning portal access
Assignment support & tutor guidance
Student services and admin support
Convenient Payment Methods
Bank transfer
Online payment
Credit/Debit card (where available)
1. What is the ATHE Level 3 Business & Management program?
Level 3 is a foundation-level qualification that prepares students for entry into ATHE Level 4 & Level 5 Diplomas in Business (equivalent to Year 1 & Year 2 of a UK bachelor’s degree). It provides essential knowledge of business, management, communication, marketing, and academic skills.
2. Is ATHE Level 3 recognized internationally?
Yes. ATHE is regulated by Ofqual (UK Government), and its Level 3 qualification is accepted worldwide as an entry pathway into Level 4 business and management programs.
3. Is Level 3 equivalent to the foundation or first year of a degree?
Yes. ATHE Level 3 is considered equivalent to a UK foundation year, preparing students for Level 4 entry (Year 1 of a UK bachelor’s degree).
4. Do I need IELTS to enroll in Level 3?
Not always. Most learners only need basic English proficiency. IELTS may be required later when applying for the UK Top-Up year, depending on the university.
5. What is the duration of the Level 3 program?
The program is typically completed within:
8–12 months depending on pace and study mode.
6. Is the Level 3 program offered online or on-campus?
EdSkills offers online, blended, and flexible learning options, making it suitable for college students, working professionals, and international learners.
7. Are there exams in Level 3?
No. There are no written exams. Assessment is based on:
Assignments
Projects
Case studies
Research tasks
8. Can I progress to a UK degree after completing Level 3?
Yes. After Level 3, students can enroll in:
ATHE Level 4 Diploma in Business (Year 1 of UK degree)
ATHE Level 5 Diploma in Business (Year 2 of UK degree)
After Level 5, you can complete a Level 6 Top-Up year at a UK university to earn a full BA (Hons) Business degree.
9. Do universities accept Level 3 → Level 4 → Level 5 progression?
Yes. Many UK, Irish, and international universities accept students through this progression pathway.
10. Which universities eventually accept students for the Top-Up after Level 5?
Some universities include:
Bangor University
Cambridge Education Group
Carlow Institute of Technology
Griffith College
University of Sunderland
University of Portsmouth
University of Westminster
Limerick Institute of Technology
George Brown College (Canada)
Central University (Ghana)
11. Will my final degree be issued by the UK university?
Yes. After completing the Level 6 Top-Up year, the BA (Hons) Business degree is awarded directly by the UK university.
12. What career opportunities can I pursue after Level 3?
Level 3 prepares you for entry-level roles such as:
Business support roles
Administrative positions
Sales and customer service
Junior marketing or HR roles
And it is the foundation for higher-level management positions after Level 4–6.
13. Can international students enroll in Level 3?
Yes. ATHE Level 3 is open to both local and international learners.
14. What is the fee structure?
EdSkills offers affordable fees with flexible monthly installment options. Students can request a personalized fee breakdown via WhatsApp.
15. Will EdSkills support me in progressing to Level 4 and Top-Up universities?
Yes. Students receive full support including:
Level 4/5 progression guidance
University selection assistance
Application help
Career counseling
Visa support for UK Top-Up (if going abroad)