Diploma Management and Leadership

Higher National Qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers. The Diploma in Management and Leadership (SCQF level 8) is jointly certificated by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and enables learners to pursue an advanced level of leadership and management.

The diploma focuses on organisational leadership and development, management research, strategic planning and implementing change. The wide range of optional units includes Decision Making for Managers, Business Culture and Strategy, Managing Strategically in a Global Environment, Economic Issues, Business Law, and Managing Financial Resources.

This qualification is available through colleges and is typically offered on a part-time basis.

The Diploma in Management and Leadership is a recognised qualification that is respected by employers across many industry sectors. While undertaking the diploma, learners are eligible for 12 months free studying membership of the CMI. On achievement of the diploma, learners are eligible for Associate (ACMI) membership of the CMI.

SQA has developed Higher National Qualifications in partnership with colleges, universities and industry ¿ so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

The diploma provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

The Diploma in Management and Leadership is suitable for a wide range of candidates including:

  • adult returners to education
  • individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
  • people who wish to start their own business

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

  • any relevant Scottish Group Award at SCQF level 5 or 6 (National 5 or 6 Higher)
  • any two National Qualifications at Higher together with three Standard Grade passes at 3 or above
  • an SVQ at Level 2 or 3 in a relevant area
  • relevant current work experience

Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.

Candidates for whom English is not their first language are recommended to obtain English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) level 6 or a score of 5.5 in International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

In addition, candidates should possess good communication and analytical skills, along with a desire to attain the professional and personal attributes of a leader/manager.

Progression and employment

The Diploma in Management and Leadership can provide opportunity to progress to degree-level study. Universities will consider entry on an individual basis.

The diploma is designed to provide learners with the skills and knowledge to enter a range of roles across all industry sectors.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority are required to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.

Centres interested in offering this qualification are required to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide. The specific delivery requirements are set out in the Group Award Specification (Arrangements Document).

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Diploma in Management and Leadership

Group Award code: GP56 48 (48 SCQF credit points)

The Diploma in Management and Leadership at SCQF level 8 consists of mandatory units (32 SCQF credit points) and two optional units (16 SCQF credit points).

GP56 48 (819 KB)