Qualification Structure

The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Accounting and Business is an Ofqual-regulated qualification accredited on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). The qualification has a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours and 480 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), with a combined value of 120 credits.

Assessment for the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Accounting and Business is assignment-based. Learner work is internally assessed and verified by the approved centre, with external quality assurance provided by OTHM-appointed External Quality Assurers to ensure compliance with OTHM quality standards.

To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete all six mandatory units.

Core Study Units

Unit 1: Corporate and Business Law

Learning outcomes:

• Understand key elements of the English legal system.
• Understand English legislation relating to anti-competitive practices.
• Understand intellectual property rights.
• Understand the legal relationship between business organisations and their consumers.
• Understand the legal background relating to limited companies.

Unit 2: Business Performance Measurement

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the principles of performance measurement.
• Understand performance analysis in for-profit and not-for-profit organisations.
• Understand specialist cost and management accounting techniques.
• Understand performance measurement reporting.

Unit 3: Financial Securities Markets

Learning outcomes:

• Understand different types and trading of securities.
• Understand principles of investment theory, securities and market analysis.
• Understand the legislation and regulation controlling the financial services industry.

Unit 4: Audit and Assurance

Learning outcomes:

• Understand internal audit principles.
• Understand current external audit legal and professional requirements.
• Understand the risk involved in the external audit process.
• Understand current external auditing practice.

Unit 5: Business Research Project

Learning outcomes:

• Be able to propose a research project in a business and management context.
• Be able to prepare a research plan and conduct a literature review.
• Be able to carry out research according to the chosen research specification.
• Be able to evaluate research and present results and conclusion.

Unit 6: Investment and Risk Management

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the principles of financial market trading and investment.
• Understand the theory of financial market trading and investment.
• Understand risks associated with market trading and investment.

Who Is This Qualification For?

The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Accounting and Business is designed for accounting, finance and business professionals aiming to progress into middle or senior management roles. It is particularly suitable for:

• Accounting and finance professionals seeking career progression.
• Accountants involved in financial management and business decision-making.
• Finance managers and aspiring senior finance professionals.
• Professionals working in audit, assurance, investment or risk management.
• Business managers who require advanced accounting and financial knowledge.
• Individuals progressing from an RQF Level 5 or equivalent qualification.
• Experienced professionals seeking a recognised pathway towards further higher-level study.

The qualification develops knowledge and skills relevant to organisational finance, investment and risk, audit and assurance, business performance and research, supporting professional development across accounting and business environments.

Career Opportunities

The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Accounting and Business prepares learners for professional and managerial roles across accounting, finance, and business environments. The qualification develops advanced knowledge in financial management, business performance, audit and assurance, investment, risk management, corporate law, and business research, enabling learners to analyse financial information, support strategic decision-making, and contribute effectively to organisational performance. It is highly relevant to sectors such as banking, financial services, accounting practices, auditing, investment, consultancy, corporate business, and public-sector organisations, providing a strong foundation for career progression and further professional or academic study.

Future Progression

The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Accounting and Business provides learners with a strong foundation for career advancement into professional and managerial roles across accounting, finance, auditing, investment, risk management, and business. The qualification supports progression across industries such as banking, financial services, accounting practices, corporate organisations, investment firms, consultancy, and public-sector institutions, where advanced accounting and business expertise is highly valued.

Academically, learners may progress to relevant postgraduate qualifications, including a Master’s degree or other higher-level business and accounting programmes, subject to the entry requirements of the receiving institution. The qualification also supports continued professional development in accounting, financial management, audit, investment, risk management, and business strategy.

Professionally, the diploma can support progression into roles such as Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Finance Manager, Audit Associate, Risk Analyst, Investment Analyst, Business Performance Analyst, and Financial Controller. The knowledge and analytical skills developed through the qualification enable learners to interpret financial information, evaluate business performance, assess investment and financial risks, and contribute effectively to organisational decision-making and strategic business development.