Finance
Last reviewed: September 2026
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About the Course
Course Overview
- Want to apply to university? Study our diploma from today
- Study entirely online with unparalleled flexibility
- Learn from any location at a time that suits your schedule
- Receive expert support from specialist tutors
- Your optimal pathway to university and a successful career
- Flexible payment plans designed to fit your budget
- 24/7 access to our comprehensive learning platform
- No exams or fixed schedules, allowing you to study at your own pace
- Full UCAS application support to help you succeed
- Highly rated by students, with a 4.8/5.0 Trustpilot score
About Your Diploma
If you’re aspiring to enter the finance sector but lack the necessary qualifications or are considering a career change, our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) at Academy Online Learning is the ideal pathway. This course is perfect for those seeking to start a new career in finance or wishing to enhance their qualifications for career growth. Though the course is designed for completion within a year, its flexible structure allows many students to complete it in just 8-10 months.
Advanced Preparation for University
University entry requirements are evolving, with many institutions increasingly recognising the value of Access to Higher Education Diplomas. Our course is meticulously designed to align with university standards, providing a strong foundation for higher-level finance studies. You’ll cover essential topics such as Financial Management, Investment Strategies, Economic Principles, and Business Finance, equipping you for a prosperous career in the finance industry. With a tailored Learning Plan, you can manage your study schedule effectively, ensuring steady progress throughout your course.
Begin 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 entirely online course is structured to seamlessly integrate with your lifestyle, whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Empower Your Learning
Our online course gives you complete control over your education, without the need to attend scheduled classes or lectures. Start whenever you’re ready and work 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 have 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 Finance, click here.
We also offer 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 a Finance degree?
A: Yes. The diploma can support applications to Finance, Accounting, 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 Finance, Accounting or Business qualification?
A: No. AOLL does not require a previous qualification in Finance, Accounting or Business to begin the diploma. The learning materials introduce Level 3 concepts progressively. Students should be prepared to interpret financial information, perform calculations, analyse evidence and explain their conclusions in written assignments.
Q: Do I need finance, banking or accounting experience before starting the diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require previous employment or voluntary experience in finance, banking, accounting 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 managing the finances of a personal project.
Q: Do I need to be good at Maths to study Finance?
A: AOLL does not require a previous Maths qualification to begin the diploma. However, Finance 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, interpret evidence and complete Level 3 assignments.
Q: What is the difference between Finance and Accounting?
A: Accounting concentrates on recording, reporting and interpreting financial information. Finance is a broader subject involving how individuals and organisations obtain, manage and use money. The subjects overlap in areas including financial statements, cash flow, financial performance, budgeting and business decision-making.
Q: How much Finance content is included in the pathway?
A: Financial Analysis for Business Management is a six-credit graded unit. Financial considerations are also included within Developing a Business Plan and the wider Economics-related content. The pathway combines Finance with business structures, leadership, customer service, law, international trade and the UK economic environment.
Q: Will I learn how to read financial statements?
A: Yes. Financial Analysis for Business Management introduces income statements, balance sheets and cash-flow statements. Students learn how information from these statements can be used to interpret financial performance and evaluate a business.
Q: Will I study ratio analysis?
A: Yes. The Financial Analysis for Business Management unit introduces ratio analysis. Students use financial information to assess areas including profitability, liquidity and business efficiency.
Q: Will I study cash flow?
A: Yes. Students examine cash-flow statements and consider the importance of cash flow when assessing financial performance and making business decisions. Cash flow is also relevant when considering the financial requirements of a business plan.
Q: Will I study financial reporting standards?
A: The Financial Analysis for Business Management unit introduces reporting frameworks including UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting Standards. This provides introductory Level 3 knowledge rather than a professional Financial Reporting qualification.
Q: Will I learn bookkeeping, payroll or taxation?
A: The pathway introduces financial accounting and the interpretation of business accounts. The diploma provides broad academic preparation rather than training in specialist accounting procedures.
Q: Will I study investments, financial markets or trading?
A: The pathway concentrates on financial statements, business performance, cash flow, ratio analysis, economics and international trade.
Q: Does the Finance pathway include Economics?
A: Yes. The six-credit UK Economic Environment unit introduces economic systems, public and private sectors, market competition, supply and demand, and price mechanisms. International Trade and Development examines global trade, exchange rates and barriers to economic development.
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 objectives, marketing, resources, finance and the rationale for the proposed business.
Q: Will I study Business Law and financial 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 requirements for forming a contract. Corporate Social Responsibility, Ethics and Governance in Business also introduces ethical decision-making, corporate governance and organisational responsibility.
Q: Will I study international finance and exchange rates?
A: International Trade and Development introduces the reasons for international trade, patterns of global trade and how exchange rates are determined.
Q: Does the course include Business Management?
A: Yes. The pathway includes Business Structures, Organisation Structures, Principles of Leadership, Customer Service and Developing a Business Plan. These subjects help students consider financial information within the wider operation and management of organisations.
Q: Is the Access diploma equivalent to an A Level in Finance or Accounting?
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 Finance and Accounting-related content but does not reproduce the complete specification of a separate A Level.
Q: Can I complete the Finance 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 Finance 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 Finance 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 Finance 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 financial knowledge, numerical interpretation, research, 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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