is recognised as being equivalent to a Master's degree, a Postgraduate Diploma, or a Postgraduate Certificate?

The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership sits at RQF Level 7, the same framework level as a UK Master’s degree. However, it carries 120 credits, whereas a full Master’s typically requires 180 credits. Consequently, the qualification is formally recognised as equivalent to a Postgraduate Diploma, not a full Master’s degree or a Postgraduate Certificate. This distinction is critical for the MBA top-up route. Universities accept the 120-credit Level 7 Diploma as fulfilling the taught component of an MBA. Learners then complete a final 60-credit dissertation module at a partner university to achieve the full 180 credits required for the Master of Business Administration award. It is not equivalent to a Postgraduate Certificate, which usually comprises only 60 credits.