are awarded by UK's leading universities via Top Up routes?

No. The Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Online – MBA Top-Up Route (120 Credits) is awarded by OTHM, a regulated awarding body, not by universities. However, upon successful completion, graduates can progress to a final-year MBA top-up programme at partner universities. These universities, such as the University of Suffolk or University of Cumbria, award the final MBA degree. The Level 7 Diploma itself is a standalone qualification that provides the academic credits required for this progression. It is Ofqual regulated (603/2181/7) and sits at RQF Level 7, equivalent to master’s level study. This structure allows working managers to gain recognised strategic management credentials before committing to a university degree, offering a flexible, cost-effective pathway to an MBA without starting from scratch.