Skip to content

Access to Business (Online)

Course Code: BMAONL
  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: Access, Diploma
  • Awarding body: Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Distance learning
  • Time of day: Flexible
  • When you'll study: Flexible learning (online)

What's it all about?

Our Access to Business online programme is designed for adults ready to take the next step into higher education or a new career in the world of business. Whether you’re returning to study after a break or looking to change direction, this flexible course builds your confidence and equips you with the essential knowledge and academic skills needed for university-level study. 

You’ll explore key business topics such as marketing, accounting, management, while developing critical thinking, research, and writing skills. Delivered fully online, the course fits around your existing commitments, with expert tutor support every step of the way. By the end, you’ll be prepared to progress onto a wide range of business-related degrees and career pathways. 

Course information

This online Access to Business programme is designed to provide a broad and practical introduction to the business environment, while also building the academic skills needed for successful progression to higher education. The course combines subject knowledge with study skills, helping learners develop confidence in research, analysis, communication, and independent learning. 

Throughout the programme, students will explore key areas of business including marketing, business management, leadership, sustainability, law, business IT, and accounting. They will also complete a research project, giving them the opportunity to investigate a business topic in more depth and apply the knowledge and skills gained across the course. Alongside this, study skills support will help learners strengthen their essay writing, referencing, note-taking, and time management, preparing them for university-level study.

The course is ideal for adults who want to progress into business-related degree courses or careers, or who are returning to education and need a supportive route back into learning. Delivered online, it offers flexibility, structure, and tutor guidance, making it accessible to learners balancing study with work, family, or other commitments. 

Applicants should normally have GCSE English and GCSE Maths at grade 4/C or above, or an equivalent qualification. These entry requirements ensure learners have the essential skills needed to succeed on the course and progress confidently through both the academic and practical elements of the programme. 

The online programme is not suitable for international students as it does not include enough study hours to meet visa requirements. 

Assessment on the Access to Business online programme is designed to be varied, practical, and supportive of different learning styles. Learners are assessed through a mix of exams, projects, and presentations, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding in a range of ways. 

This balanced approach helps students build confidence and prepare for higher education by developing both subject knowledge and essential academic skills. It also reflects the kind of tasks learners may encounter at university and in the workplace, including written work, independent research, and verbal communication. 

This course can open the door to a wide range of progression opportunities in higher education and employment. Successful learners may go on to study business-related degrees such as business management, marketing, accounting and finance, human resource management, international business, or leadership and management, while others may choose apprenticeships or direct entry into roles in business, marketing, administration, finance, project management, and related sectors.

Please note fees are quoted for one year only.

Download course PDF

Related courses

Science and Engineering

  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: Access, Diploma
  • Awarding body: Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Full-time

Science and Engineering (Physics, Maths and Chemistry)

  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: Access, Diploma
  • Awarding body: Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Distance learning

Health and Social Care (Nursing and Health Professions) Express

  • Level: 3
  • Qualification: Access, Diploma
  • Awarding body: Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)
  • Duration: One year
  • Course type: Part-time
View all courses

Book an open day and come visit us!

Come and visit us on one of our college open days, where you can find out more about our courses, check out our facilities and speak to current students and staff.