The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care Management is designed to develop the knowledge, understanding and practical skills required for further study or career development in health and social care management.

The qualification combines Level 4 foundational learning with Level 5 specialist study. It explores equality and inclusion, professional development, communication, health and safety, assessment processes, resource management, partnership working, safeguarding, health education, team management, professional supervision and research methods.

Learners develop an understanding of how health and social care services operate, how professional teams work together, how vulnerable individuals can be protected and how management decisions can support safe, effective and person-centred services.

The qualification is intended for individuals who want to strengthen their knowledge of the sector, develop management capabilities or progress to further study.

Qualification Details

• Awarding organisation: OTHM
• Qualification title: OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care Management
• Ofqual qualification reference: 610/0333/5
• Total credits: 240
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): Minimum 1,200
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 2,400 hours
• Mandatory units: 12
• Level 4 credits: 120
• Level 5 credits: 120
• Typical full-time duration: Two academic years
• Assessment: Coursework
• Overall grading: Pass / Fail
• Assessment and verification: Internal assessment by the centre and external verification by OTHM

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification may be suitable for:

• Individuals interested in developing a career in health and social care management.
• Care professionals seeking to strengthen their management knowledge.
• Aspiring care supervisors, team leaders and service coordinators.
• Individuals interested in safeguarding, care quality and service improvement.
• Learners seeking to develop knowledge of professional supervision and resource management.
• Applicants planning to progress to further study in health and social care.

Assessment and Verification

All units are internally assessed by the approved delivery centre and externally verified by OTHM. Learners must demonstrate that they have met the learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each mandatory unit.

Assessment is through coursework and may include written assignments, reports, case studies, reflective accounts, research tasks and applied analysis, according to the relevant unit specification and centre assessment brief.

The qualification is criterion-referenced and graded Pass or Fail. Learners must achieve all mandatory units to complete the full Extended Diploma.

Entry Requirements

The qualification is designed for learners typically aged 18 and above. The entry profile is likely to include at least one of the following:

• A relevant Level 3 Diploma or equivalent qualification.
• GCE Advanced Level in two subjects or an equivalent qualification.
• Mature learners aged over 21 with relevant management experience, subject to confirmation with the delivery centre before registration.
• Applicants who are not from a majority English-speaking country must provide evidence of English-language competency in accordance with OTHM requirements.
• The centre should assess each applicant's suitability and confirm any additional admission requirements before registration.

Study and Learning Support

Depending on approved delivery arrangements, learning may include face-to-face teaching, lectures, tutorials, seminars, online learning or distance learning.

Learners should be prepared for independent study, academic reading, coursework, research and reflective activities. The delivery schedule and available learning support should be confirmed with the institute.

Progression Opportunities

Successful completion may support progression to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management and other relevant further-study opportunities.

OTHM describes its Level 5 Extended Diploma qualifications as academically comparable in level to a Higher National Diploma (HND) and the first two years of a three-year UK bachelor's degree. Eligible learners may be considered for advanced university entry, subject to the receiving institution's admission criteria, credit-transfer policy and individual assessment. University progression is not automatic or guaranteed.

Career Development

The knowledge and skills developed may support career development towards roles or pathways such as:

• Health and social care team leader.
• Care supervisor.
• Service coordinator.
• Assistant care manager.
• Care service administration.
• Safeguarding or quality-support roles.
• Health and social care management support.

Actual job eligibility depends on relevant experience, employer criteria and any additional professional or regulatory requirements. The qualification does not guarantee employment or professional registration.

Study with Versa Institute London

Versa Institute London aims to support learners in developing their academic knowledge and professional capabilities through structured learning and assessment support, subject to the institute's approved delivery arrangements.

Contact the institute to confirm course availability, entry requirements, fees, study options and the application process.

Important information: Delivery, registration and certification are subject to applicable OTHM and centre requirements. University progression and employment outcomes depend on the receiving institution or employer.