Economics
Last reviewed: September 2026
From £110 a month over 12 months
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About the Course
Course Overview
- Embark on an insightful journey into the world of Economics
- Study fully online with the flexibility to suit your lifestyle
- Learn from anywhere, at any time that fits your schedule
- Benefit from expert guidance provided by experienced tutors dedicated to your success
- Your ideal pathway to university and a career in economics
- Flexible payment options tailored to your financial needs
- 24/7 access to our interactive and comprehensive learning platform
- No exams or rigid timetables, allowing you to study at your own pace
- Complete UCAS application support to help you achieve your academic goals
- Highly rated by students, with a 4.8/5.0 Trustpilot score
About Your Diploma
If you’re aiming to enter the analytical field of economics but lack the necessary qualifications or are considering a career change, our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) at Academy Online Learning is the perfect pathway. This course is designed for those looking to start a new career in economics or enhance their qualifications for academic and professional growth. Although the course is structured for completion within a year, its flexible format allows many students to finish in just 8-10 months.
Comprehensive Preparation for University
University entry requirements are evolving, with more institutions increasingly recognising the value of Access to Higher Education Diplomas. Our course is meticulously aligned with university standards, providing a solid foundation for advanced studies in economics. You’ll explore essential topics such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Economic Theory, and Financial Markets, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in economics. With a personalised Learning Plan, you can effectively manage your study schedule, ensuring consistent progress throughout your course.
Start Your Journey with Academy Online Learning
As a leading UK provider of online education, Academy Online Learning offers this nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). Our fully online course is designed to seamlessly fit into your life, whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Take Control of Your Education
Our online course gives you complete control over your learning experience, without the need to attend scheduled classes or lectures. Start whenever it suits you and progress through our engaging materials at your own pace. If you need support, your personal tutor is just a phone call or video chat away. All our tutors are highly qualified and bring extensive experience in the subjects you’ll be studying.
While GCSE Maths and English are not required to enrol in this course, universities typically expect these qualifications at Grade 4/C or above. You can study either or both alongside your diploma. Scroll down for more information on our fully online Functional Skills (which include online exams) or GCSE options.
Please note that university entry requirements may vary. Always ensure that your qualifications meet the criteria of your chosen institution before enrolling.
For further information about careers in Economics, click here.
We also provide comprehensive assistance with UCAS applications, including providing an academic reference.
Enquiry Form
Complete the form to ask a question, get more information, or start your enrolment. You can choose whether to purchase later.
Why enrol with AOLL?
- Flexible payment options available in the secure store
- Tutor support throughout your course
- UCAS guidance and academic reference support
- Rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot
Ungraded Units (15 credits)
Academic Writing Skills (3 Credits)
Exploring Marketing Concepts (3 Credits)
Presentation Skills (3 Credits)
Researching and Understanding Opportunities in Higher Education (3 Credits)
The Safe and Ethical Use of Generative AI (3 Credits)
Business Units (45 credits)
Business Structures (3 Credits)
Consumer Law (3 Credits)
Corporate Social Responsibility, Ethics and Governance in Business (3 Credits)
Customer Service (3 Credits)
Developing a business plan (6 Credits)
Financial Analysis for Business Management (6 Credits)
International Trade and Development (3 Credits)
Organisation Structures (3 Credits)
Principles of Leadership (3 Credits)
The Formation of a Contract (3 Credits)
UK Economic Environment (6 Credits)
Using the Internet for Business (3 Credits)
Requirements
Entry requirements for the Access to Higher Education Diploma course
We do not require you to have your maths and English but universities do, at Grade 4/ C or above. Study either or both alongside your diploma. Click here for more information on our fully online Functional Skills (includes the online exams) or GCSE options.
Entry requirements for university entry
Most universities require GCSE English and Maths in addition to the Access to Higher Education Diploma (or A Levels).
Entry requirements may vary between universities. Always verify that your qualifications will be accepted by your chosen institution before enrolling.
Qualification
QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma
The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally-recognised Level 3 qualification. To use the title “Access to HE”, a course must be recognised under the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) Recognition Scheme.
Academy Online Learning’s Access to HE courses lead to a Diploma awarded through Skills and Education Group Access, a QAA-licensed Access Validating Agency.
The Diploma can support applications to university, but each university sets its own entry requirements. Check that your planned unit combination meets the requirements for your chosen degree before enrolling.
- Full qualification title
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Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business)
- Course type
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Access to Higher Education Diploma
- Credits
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60 Credits at Level 3 (15 Ungraded & 45 Graded)
- Learning aim reference
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40012797
- UCAS tariff points
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Maximum 144 points depending on grades
- Location
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Online
- Start date
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This course can be started at any time of the year
Careers in Business and Management
What you need to work in a Business role
Further information about Careers in Business
FAQs
Questions about this course
Q: Can I use this Access to HE Diploma to apply for an Economics degree?
A: Yes. The diploma can support applications to Economics and related business courses. It contains 45 graded Level 3 Business credits, together with 15 ungraded academic skills credits.
Q: Do I need a previous Economics or Business qualification?
A: No. AOLL does not require a previous Economics or Business qualification to begin the diploma. The learning materials introduce Level 3 concepts progressively. Students should be prepared to interpret information, analyse evidence, work with numerical data and explain economic and business concepts in written assignments.
Q: Do I need economics, finance or business experience before starting the diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require previous employment or voluntary experience in economics, finance or business. Relevant experience may provide useful context, but it is not required. This could come from employment, self-employment, administration, customer service, volunteering or personal business projects.
Q: Do I need to be good at Maths to study Economics?
A: AOLL does not require a previous Maths qualification to begin the diploma. However, Economics involves numerical information, so confidence with arithmetic, percentages, ratios, formulas, tables and graphs will be helpful.
Q: Do I need English and Maths qualifications to start the course?
A: AOLL does not require previous English or Maths qualifications to enrol. Students need a suitable standard of written English to understand the learning materials, analyse evidence and complete Level 3 assignments.
Q: Will I study supply and demand?
A: Yes. The UK Economic Environment unit examines factors affecting demand and how prices are determined through the price mechanism in a free-market economy. Students also consider different forms of market competition and compare economic systems.
Q: Will I study international trade and exchange rates?
A: Yes. International Trade and Development is a three-credit graded unit. Students examine the reasons for international trade, patterns of global trade and how exchange rates are determined.
Q: Will I study economic development?
A: Yes. The International Trade and Development unit introduces barriers to economic development in developing countries. This provides introductory Level 3 knowledge rather than a complete Development Economics qualification.
Q: Will I study inflation, interest rates and government economic policy?
A: The pathway concentrates on economic systems, public and private sectors, competition, supply and demand, price mechanisms, international trade, exchange rates and economic development.
Q: Will I study Econometrics or statistical modelling?
A: The course develops skills in interpreting numerical information, analysing evidence and supporting conclusions. However, it does not contain a dedicated Econometrics or statistical-modelling unit. Specialist econometric methods, advanced statistics and economic forecasting may form part of later Economics study.
Q: Does the Economics pathway include Accounting and Finance?
A: Yes. Financial Analysis for Business Management is a six-credit graded unit. It introduces income statements, balance sheets, cash-flow statements and ratio analysis. Students use financial information to assess profitability, liquidity, business efficiency and financial performance.
Q: Will I study financial markets or investment trading?
A: The Financial Analysis for Business Management unit concentrates on interpreting business accounts and assessing financial performance.
Q: Why does the Economics pathway include Business units?
A: Economic conditions affect how organisations make decisions, obtain finance, set prices, respond to competition and trade internationally. The Business units allow students to examine economic ideas alongside finance, organisational structures, leadership, customer service, law and business planning.
Q: Will I learn how to write a business plan?
A: Yes. Developing a Business Plan is a six-credit graded unit. Students explore a business idea and produce a structured plan covering areas such as objectives, marketing, resources, finance and the rationale for the proposed business.
Q: Will I study Business Law and economic regulation?
A: The pathway includes Consumer Law and The Formation of a Contract. These units introduce consumer protection, the sale and supply of goods and services, exclusion clauses and the legal requirements for forming a contract. Corporate Social Responsibility, Ethics and Governance in Business also examines ethical decision-making, organisational responsibilities and corporate governance.
Q: Does the course include Marketing?
A: Yes. Exploring Marketing Concepts is a three-credit ungraded unit. Students consider why businesses use marketing and examine different approaches to market research. Marketing is also considered within business-planning activities.
Q: Will I study online business and e-commerce?
A: Yes. The Using the Internet for Business unit examines different forms of e-commerce and the benefits and potential problems associated with trading online. It focuses on the use of the internet for business rather than website development, computer programming or digital design.
Q: Is the Access diploma equivalent to an A Level in Economics?
A: An Access to HE Diploma and an A Level are different Level 3 qualifications with different structures and assessment methods. The Access diploma contains 60 Level 3 credits across Business and academic study skills. It includes Economics-related units but does not reproduce the complete specification of an Economics A Level.
Q: Can I complete the Economics Access diploma entirely online?
A: Yes. Students access their learning materials online, complete assignments and receive support from subject-specialist tutors. There are no classroom sessions or examinations.
Q: Can I start the Economics Access diploma at any time?
A: Yes. The course can be started at any time of the year. Students can organise their studies around existing responsibilities and progress according to their individual learning plan.
Q: How long does the Economics Access diploma take?
A: The typical completion time is between 8-10 months. The precise time depends on the student’s study schedule, progress and agreed assignment deadlines.
Q: How is the Economics pathway assessed?
A: The diploma is assessed through assignments rather than examinations. Assessment tasks may include essays, reports, presentations and question-based assignments. Students must demonstrate their knowledge, research, numerical interpretation, analysis and written communication skills through their submitted work.
Q: Can I achieve the grades required for further study?
A: Yes. All 45 graded Level 3 Business credits can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction, allowing different grade profiles to be achieved. Achieving Distinction grades across all 45 graded credits is equivalent to 144 UCAS Tariff points.
Access to HE Business FAQs
Qualifications
Q: What will this qualification give me?
A: An Access to HE Diploma in Business can lead to a wide range of degree routes, including business, management, and politics. The Access to HE Diploma is a recognised Level 3 qualification and is widely accepted by UK universities and higher education institutions. Read more...
University
Q: Which universities or higher education institutions offer degree courses in Business?
A: A full list of courses and institutions can be found here. Or Read more...
NHS Careers
Q: What careers are available in the NHS?
A: A full list of NHS careers and job roles can be found on the NHS website. Even in Business related courses there are many jobs within the NHS. Read more...
How Studying Online Works
Q: Is this course accredited by the QAA?
A: Yes. It is fully accredited by the QAA for both Health Science Professions and Business. Read more...
Funding
Q: Is there any funding available to me?
A: Please visit our Funding Page for more information. If you are in the Military and want to use your resettlement fund, please click here.
General Access to HE FAQs
Access to HE Frequently Asked Questions
Browse the sections below for answers about qualifications, university applications, studying online, funding, and tutor support.
Qualifications
Q: What is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults for degree-level study. AOLL’s diplomas contain 60 Level 3 credits: 45 graded credits and 15 ungraded credits. The graded credits can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction and carry UCAS Tariff points. Read more...
Q: What are the entry requirements for an Access to HE Diploma with AOLL?
A: AOLL does not require applicants to hold formal qualifications before starting the diploma. However, you will need motivation, the ability to ask for help when needed, and a good standard of written and spoken English. Universities may still require Level 2 qualifications such as GCSEs alongside an Access course, so it is important to check entry requirements carefully. Read more...
Q: Do I need GCSE English and Maths to study an Access to HE Diploma?
A: AOLL does not require GCSE English or Maths for enrolment. However, many degree courses require GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or an accepted equivalent in addition to the Access to HE Diploma. Some courses also require GCSE Science. Students should check these requirements before enrolling. AOLL offer Functional Skills and GCSEs.
Q: How long does an online Access to HE Diploma take?
A: AOLL’s Access to HE Diploma is normally purchased with 12 months of study time. Students may complete it sooner, typically between 8-10 months if they meet the assessment requirements and agreed deadlines. Additional study time may be available subject to AOLL’s current terms and charges.
Q: Is an Access to HE Diploma equivalent to A Levels?
A: An Access to HE Diploma and A Levels are different Level 3 qualifications. The Access diploma is designed primarily for adults preparing to enter higher education and combines subject knowledge with academic study skills. It should not be described as identical to a particular number of A Levels.
Q: How do I choose the correct Access to HE pathway?
A: Students should begin with their intended degree or progression route and check its subject, credit, grade and GCSE requirements. They can then compare those requirements with the units and credits included in each AOLL pathway. Applicants should do this before enrolling rather than assuming that every pathway supports every degree.
Q: What can I study after completing an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma can support applications to a range of undergraduate degrees and other higher education programmes. The suitable progression routes depend on the diploma title, the units and subject credits completed, the grades achieved and any additional entry requirements set by the course provider. Read more...
Q: What will appear on my Access to HE Diploma certificate?
A: The certificate will show the formal Access to Higher Education Diploma title. The accompanying transcript will show the units, credits and grades completed.
Q: Can I do this diploma if I live outside the UK?
A: This QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma is validated for students living in the UK, including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Read more...
Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma recognised by QAA?
A: Yes. The Access to HE Diploma is a QAA-recognised qualification. QAA regulates the Access to HE Diploma through its Recognition Scheme. AOLL’s diplomas are awarded by Skills and Education Group Access, which is a QAA-licensed Access Validating Agency. To find our profile on the QAA website, click here. Read more...
Q: What does QAA stand for?
A: QAA stands for the Quality Assurance Agency. It is the organisation that safeguards quality and standards in UK colleges and universities so that students have the best possible learning experience. You can find more information here. Read more...
Q: Who is the awarding organisation for this course?
A: Our awarding organisation is Skills and Education Group Access. Read more...
Q: Do I need work experience before starting an Access to HE Diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require applicants to have previous employment or voluntary experience in their intended subject. Relevant experience may provide useful context, particularly for professional courses, but later training providers and employers may set their own requirements. Read more...
Q: Can an Access to HE Diploma support a degree-apprenticeship application?
A: The diploma provides Level 3 study that may support an application for a degree apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are employment-based, so applicants must also secure a suitable position and meet the employer’s recruitment and entry requirements.
University
Q: How do I apply to university while studying an Access to HE Diploma?
A: Most undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Students should research their intended courses, check the entry requirements and enter the unfinished Access to HE Diploma and units as pending. Students who link their application to AOLL can receive application support and an academic reference. Read more...
Q: Will I get help with my UCAS application?
A: Yes. As part of your course fees, AOLL provides support through one application cycle. This includes checking the three UCAS personal statement questions (introduced for 2026 applications onwards), and providing an academic reference. Where appropriate, Academy Online Learning can also provide information about your progress, completed units and grades achieved to date. Unfinished Access to HE qualifications and units are entered on UCAS as pending. We are a UCAS registered centre. Read more...
Q: Will my tutor give me a reference?
A: If you link your UCAS application to AOLL, we will automatically act as your referee and write the academic reference for you. If you would prefer to use a different referee, you will need to apply independently so that you can enter their details instead. Read more...
Q: Can I get a TOTUM card?
A: Yes. Students can apply directly online via TOTUM. Read more...
Getting Started
Q: When can I start this course?
A: You can start at any time during the year. Our provision allows learners to begin when it suits them, rather than only in September. Read more...
Q: Once I have completed the enrolment form, how do I get started?
A: Once your chosen payment option has been set up and accepted, you will be allocated a personal tutor who will contact you, talk you through the next steps, and help you get started. Read more...
Q: Do I have to pay to enrol?
A: No. There is no cost or commitment when you first enrol. An automated email will be sent to your inbox with further information about how the course works and what to expect as a student. Read more...
Q: Can I speak to somebody in Admissions?
A: Yes. You can call us on 0161 726 5970, email enquiries@academyonlinelearning.com, or visit Contact Us to send us a message. Read more...
Q: I have been out of education for many years. Have I left it too late for university?
A: No. The Access to HE Diploma is specifically designed for adult learners returning to education who do not have qualifications such as A Levels for university entry. There is no upper age limit. Read more...
Q: How do I enrol?
A: The registration form can be accessed at the top of the page or on the course page. You can also complete the contact form or send us a message via Contact Us. Read more...
Tutor Contact
Q: What tutor support will I receive while studying online?
A: Each student is allocated a personal tutor. Students can contact their tutor through the online messaging system and will normally receive a response within 24 hours, Monday to Friday. Tutors provide academic guidance, assignment feedback and support with progression. Read more...
Q: Do students feel isolated studying through distance learning?
A: Distance learning may not suit everyone, but there is strong support from tutors and staff throughout the course. Students past and present can also communicate with each other for advice on universities, bursaries, open days, careers, and more via the private Facebook group. Read more...
How Studying Online Works
Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma completely online?
A: Yes. AOLL’s Access to HE Diplomas are studied through an online virtual learning environment (VLE). Students access learning materials, submit assignments and communicate with their tutor online. There are no lessons to attend or exams to sit.
Q: How is the Access to HE Diploma assessed?
A: The diploma is assessed through assignments rather than examinations. Assessment tasks may include essays, reports, presentations and question-based assignments. Students must demonstrate the knowledge and assessment criteria required for each unit.
Q: How do I receive my learning materials and assignments?
A: Once enrolled, you will have access to your VLE dashboard where you can find all learning materials and assignments. Read more...
Q: What is the VLE?
A: The VLE is our virtual learning environment. It is where you access course materials, submit work, communicate with your tutor, and find additional guidance on UCAS, careers, moderation, and study support. Read more...
Q: What do I have to achieve to get an Access Diploma?
A: You must achieve 60 Level 3 credits in total. Of these, 45 credits are graded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Read more...
Q: Do I need to physically attend anywhere to take this course?
A: No. This course is fully distance learning. There are no classes or exams to attend in person, which can save time and travel costs. Read more...
Q: How are the courses assessed?
A: Assessment is through written assignments such as essays, reports, presentations, and question-based tasks. There are no exams. Assignments are worth 3, 6, or 9 credits, and the time allowed varies accordingly, although you can often submit earlier if you want to complete the course more quickly. 3 credits = 2 week to start the assignment and submit, 6 credits = 4 weeks and 9 credits = 6 weeks. Read more...
Q: Can I resubmit an assignment or improve a grade?
A: Once you achieve a pass or a merit grade you cannot resubmit, this is termed as 'polishing the grade' and the QAA do not allow resubmissions to gain a higher grade.
Q: How many hours per week will I need to study?
A: As a general guide, Skills and Education Group Access recommend around 10 study hours per credit. If you aim to complete the course in 12 months, this usually works out at around 12 hours per week on average. Read more...
Q: How difficult is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma is a Level 3 qualification and requires regular independent study, research and written assignment work. Students returning to education may initially find academic writing and time management challenging, but learning materials, tutor guidance and feedback are provided throughout the course.
Q: Can I take a short course for continuing professional development?
A: Yes. If you have been advised that fewer than 60 credits are needed for your progression, contact us to discuss the available options. Read more...
Q: What is moderation?
A: There are two types of moderation: internal and external. Internal moderation helps ensure that grading is fair and consistent, while external moderation by the awarding organisation confirms student achievement and leads to the final award of the diploma certificate. Read more...
Q: When is moderation?
A: External moderation for certification usually takes place in June or July for September university starters, and in November or December for January university starters. Read more...
Q: When do I receive my certificate?
A: Certificates are usually issued within four weeks of the Final Awards Board. Read more...
Q: What do grades and grading mean?
A: Graded units are awarded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Universities often specify how many Merits and Distinctions they expect applicants to achieve. You can use our UCAS Tariff Points calculator to work out what grades you may need for entry. Read more...
Q: How many UCAS Tariff points is an Access to HE Diploma worth?
A: UCAS Tariff points are awarded for the 45 graded Level 3 credits. The total depends on the combination of Pass, Merit and Distinction grades achieved. Achieving Distinction grades across all 45 graded credits is equivalent to 144 UCAS Tariff points.
Q: Do universities accept online Access to HE Diplomas?
A: Many UK higher education providers accept QAA-recognised Access to HE Diplomas, including diplomas completed through distance learning. Acceptance is not automatic. Individual courses may require a particular diploma title, subject-credit profile, number of Merit or Distinction credits, GCSEs or relevant experience. Read more...
Q: Can I study an Access to HE Diploma while working full-time?
A: Yes. The online format allows students to organise their studies around employment and other responsibilities. However, students must allow enough time for reading, research and assignments. Someone aiming to complete within 12 months should plan for approximately 12 hours of study each week on average.
Q: Can I extend or pause my course?
A: We understand that personal circumstances can change, and this course is designed to be flexible. We offer the opportunity to put your course on hold for a minimum of one month and up to 12 months which enables you to freeze your course and save your study days. Read more...
If you need additional time to complete the course you can purchase the course extension fee option.
Q: What computer equipment and software will I need?
A: You will need a reliable laptop or desktop computer with an internet connection. A current web browser and word-processing software will also be required to access course materials, conduct research and complete and upload assignments. We have access to free word-processing software if you do not have this on your computer.
Funding
Q: If I want to stop my course, do I still have to pay?
A: The monthly payment option is designed to help learners manage the financial side of studying. These are not monthly study payments, but part of an agreement to pay the full course amount. Read more...
Payment Options
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£1320 including registration fees
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