is an RQF Level 7 qualification comparable to a Master's?

Yes. On the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), Level 7 denotes master’s-level study, equivalent in academic rigour to a taught Master’s degree or MBA. The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Online – MBA Top-Up Route (120 Credits) sits at this tier, demanding critical analysis, strategic direction and independent research rather than mere knowledge recall. It is not automatically a Master’s award; it is a standalone credential that grants entry to an MBA top-up at partner universities. For working managers, this distinction matters: you gain master’s-level capability and Ofqual regulation without the full university tuition fee or time commitment. The qualification validates organisational capability and governance skills, serving as a recognised stepping stone for senior professionals seeking board-level recognition or a final MBA module.