SQA Advanced Certificate/Diploma Business

Advanced Certificate and Diploma qualifications have been developed by SQA 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.

There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

This AC/D provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

The Advanced Certificate and Advanced Diploma in Business qualifications are based on employer needs established through a robust consultation and validation process. This means that the qualifications provide skills that are required by industry and business.

Achievement is certificated and nationally recognised.

The qualifications can be tailored to the needs and circumstances of candidates. They can be delivered on a part-time or open-learning basis, and teaching and assessment can be aligned to the candidate's job role if appropriate.

The Advanced Certificate and Advanced Diploma in Business is suitable for a wide range of candidates, including:

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

Entry requirements

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is decided by the college or learning provider. As a guide, the college or learning provider will look for:

• school-leaving qualifications equivalent to level 3/ SCQF level 6 meaning the student has the ability to study at the higher level
• a centre-devised test which shows the student’s ability to study at SQA Advanced Diploma level
• relevant work experience

Advanced Certificate and Advanced Diploma can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the Advanced Certificate in Business allows direct entry into the second year of most degree programmes, and the Advanced Diploma in Business allows direct entry to most third year programmes.

Advanced Certificate and Advanced Diploma also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs). For example, SVQ in Business and Administration.

The Advanced Certificate and Advanced Diploma Business enable candidates to acquire skills and knowledge in key business functions such as management, marketing and finance.

These qualifications also help enhance relevant knowledge and skills in economics, communication, problem solving and information and communication technology.

Successful candidates also have the option to go on to further study at an equivalent or higher level.

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

Centres without devolved authority will need 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.

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

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Assessment/e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.