Online Accounting Degree Pathway

Our online Accounting and Business programme allows you to complete a Level 4 diploma (120 credits), Level 5 diploma (120 credits), or a combined Level 4 & 5 diploma (240 credits) through OTHM. These qualifications are designed to equip you with the essential skills needed to progress in the business world.

The entire course is delivered online, and you can enrol at any time. It’s fully flexible. Each module at Level 4 and Level 5 includes around 40 hours of guided online study, along with 30–50 hours of optional learning materials such as readings, exercises, digital resources, and self-assessment activities.

To achieve your qualification, you’ll complete six online assignments per level, each approximately 2,000–3,000 words. Once you successfully finish the course, you’ll receive an OTHM Accounting and Business diploma, and you’ll also have the option to top up to a bachelor’s degree at various UK universities.

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to 1-to-1 tutor support, webinars, social learning forums, and additional study materials to help you complete your diploma smoothly. More details about available support can be found on our Student Resources page.

You can also explore the academic standards we adhere to and the professional associations we’re connected with, ensuring you receive a high-quality learning experience.

This Level 4/5 online Accounting and Business course includes 10 modules and 6 written assignments per level. Each assignment is typically 2,000–3,000 words. Students receive guidance on both modules and assignments through the Tutor section of the online learning platform.

The Level 4 diploma in Accounting and Business has 6 modules:

1. Academic Writing and Research Skills (20 credits)
   Build strong research and writing skills for academic and professional success.

2. Business and the Economic Environment (20 credits)
   Understand how economic factors and policies influence business decisions and performance.

3. Principles of Financial Accounting (20 credits)
   Learn the basics of financial reporting, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow.

4. Quantitative Methods in a Business Context (20 credits)
   Use numerical data and statistical tools to support business planning and decision-making.

5. Management Accounting (20 credits)
   Explore how accounting information is used internally to control costs and improve performance.

6. Leading and Managing Teams (20 credits)
   Discover effective strategies for leading, motivating, and managing teams in the workplace.

The Level 5 diploma in Business Management has 6 modules:

1. Principles and Concepts of Strategy (20 credits)
   Explore how businesses plan and implement strategies to stay competitive and grow.

2. The Management of Human Resources (20 credits)
   Learn how to recruit, manage, and develop people effectively in the workplace.

3. Marketing for Managers (20 credits)
   Understand key marketing tools and how managers use them to reach business goals.

4. Business Law for Managers (20 credits)
   Gain insight into the legal responsibilities and rights affecting business operations.

5. Management Accounting and Decision Making (20 credits)
   Use financial information to support smart business decisions and planning.

6. Business Start-up: Conception to Market (20 credits)
   Learn how to turn a business idea into a real venture, from planning to launch.

Assignment Unit Titles:

The assignment unit titles for the Level 4 Accounting and Business diploma course are:

1. Academic Writing and Research Skills (20 credits)
2. Business and the Economic Environment (20 credits)
3. Principles of Financial Accounting (20 credits)
4. Quantitative Methods in a Business Context (20 credits)
5. Management Accounting (20 credits)
6. Leading and Managing Teams (20 credits)

The assignment unit titles for the Level 5 Business diploma course are:

1. Principles and Concepts of Strategy
2. The Management of Human Resources
3. Marketing for Managers
4. Business Law for Managers
5. Management Accounting and Decision Making
6. Business Start-up; Conception to Market

To join the Level 4 Accounting and Business online course, you must be 18 years or older and have completed full secondary education—this typically means holding at least 2 A-levels or an equivalent qualification.

If you don’t meet the academic requirements (e.g., you don’t have 2 A-levels or an NVQ Level 3), you may still be eligible based on relevant work experience.

To enrol in the Level 5 online Accounting and Business course, you must first have completed the Level 4 Qualifi Diploma in Accounting and Business.

Cost and Payment Options for the Online Accounting Course

Level 4: £2,900
Enrol with a £20 deposit, followed by £120 per month for 24 months, interest-free.

Level 5: £2,900
Enrol with a £20 deposit, followed by £120 per month for 24 months, interest-free.

Level 4 & 5 Combined: £3,500
Enrol with a £20 deposit, followed by £145 per month for 24 months, interest-free.

Payment Methods Available:

• Credit or debit card

• Bank transfer

• Interest-free monthly instalments

• PayPal

• Western Union

• ELCAS funding

Additional Discount

Please complete the form "Get Course Advice" to obtain additional discounts.

Career Progression

Completing our online Accounting and Business course opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities across multiple industries. With a business and accounting qualification, you can pursue roles in areas such as:

Public Accounting:
• Auditor: Conduct financial audits to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Tax Advisor: Prepare tax returns and offer tax planning and advisory services for individuals and businesses.

Corporate Accounting:
• Financial Accountant: Produce financial statements, manage ledgers, and ensure adherence to accounting standards.
• Management Accountant: Support strategic decision-making through budgeting, cost analysis, and internal financial reporting.

Government and Nonprofit Accounting:
• Government Accountant: Oversee public funds, audit agencies, and maintain regulatory financial compliance.
• Nonprofit Accountant: Manage budgeting, financial reporting, and grant tracking for nonprofit organisations.

Specialised Accounting Roles:
• Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial fraud, disputes, and irregularities, often in collaboration with law enforcement.
• Environmental Accountant: Assess the financial impact of sustainability initiatives and environmental regulations.

Financial Services:
• Financial Analyst: Evaluate financial data, create investment strategies, and provide insights for businesses or investors.
• Credit Analyst: Analyse creditworthiness to support lending decisions.
• Budget Analyst: Develop budgets, forecast financial requirements, and review spending trends.

Overall, accounting is a flexible, high-demand profession offering opportunities across nearly every sector.

University Progression

After completing the online Level 4 & 5 Accounting and Business course, you’ll be eligible to enter the final year of an Accounting and Business degree—commonly referred to as a BA top-up—at a variety of UK universities.

You can apply to any institution that offers a suitable top-up programme, with the flexibility to study either online or on campus.

If you choose to progress to a full undergraduate degree through an accredited UK university, the associated costs are outlined below.

Coventry University

Business Management and Leadership BA (Hons)– London Campus – £10,000

Business Management and Leadership BA (Hons)– Coventry Campus- £10,000

Northampton University

BSc (Hons) in International Accounting -£9,250

University of Derby

BSc (Hons) Business and Management– £5,200

Westcliff University

Business Administration – £11,655 (online) / £15,600 (on campus)

University of Hertfordshire

BA (Hons) Business Administration – £6,400

University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN)

BA (Hons) Business Management – £9,240

University of Hertfordshire

BA (Hons) Business Administration (top-up) (Online)

Edinburgh Napier University

BA in Business Management – £4,600
BA in Business and Enterprise – £4,600
BA in Sales Management – £4,600

University of Sunderland – On Campus

BA (Hons) Business and Management – £9,250

University of Bolton 

BSc Honours Business with Finance top-up

University of Cumbria

BA (Hons) Global Business Management – ON CAMPUS– £9,250 UK/ £13,250 International

BA (Hons) International Business Management – ON CAMPUS– £9,250 UK/ £13,250 International

NOTE: UK/EU students may be eligible for student loans for the top-up portion of their studies. Visit www.slc.co.uk for more information. Fees are subject to change, please get in touch with the University Directly for admission to the Top-up Degree.