Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries: Business and Digital Marketing)

Ref. 400/1516/6

This Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to help you progress to university and pursue a new future career.

Earn up to 144 UCAS tariff points and prepare for degree-level study through coursework-based assessment, without the need for traditional exams.

Course Options

£1,199.00

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Pay monthly options available in checkout.

Course duration

This course is typically completed within one year. You should plan to dedicate around 10 hours per week to independent study alongside your coursework.

An assessment schedule will be provided at the start of your course, clearly outlining when assignments are released and their submission deadlines to help you stay organised.

Course outcome

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Business and Digital Marketing, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that supports progression to university study.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. You will usually need GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, although equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths may also be accepted.

If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our team will be happy to advise you.

Assessment

This course is assessed entirely through coursework, with no formal exams. You will complete a range of assignments, including written tasks, presentations and reports, designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Business and Digital Marketing is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and build a career in the fast-paced world of digital business and marketing.

Whether you’re returning to education or looking to develop skills for a modern, creative career, this course provides a flexible and supportive pathway into higher education. You’ll gain an understanding of how businesses operate in digital environments, alongside the academic skills needed for degree-level study.

Delivered online, the course allows you to study around your lifestyle while preparing for progression to university courses such as digital marketing, business management, media, branding and communications.

This diploma combines core business knowledge with digital marketing and creative industry insights, alongside essential academic skills for higher education.

You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded subject units and ungraded study skills modules.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Communication and professional practice
  • Critical thinking and analysis

Business and digital marketing units

  • Principles of business in a digital world
  • Digital marketing strategies and campaigns
  • Social media and online branding
  • Consumer behaviour and audience engagement
  • Content creation and digital communication
  • Entrepreneurship and creative enterprise

You’ll explore how brands grow and engage audiences online, developing both creative and analytical skills that are highly valued in today’s digital economy.

Flexible units to support your progression

Units can be adapted to align with your chosen university degree and its specific entry requirements. If you have a particular course or creative pathway in mind, our team can help tailor your studies to support your progression.

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries: Business and Digital Marketing), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.

Flexible online learning

Study from anywhere in the UK with full access to your learning materials online. The course is designed to fit around your lifestyle, allowing you to balance study with work and other commitments.

This course supports progression to a wide range of university degrees and career pathways, including:

  • Digital Marketing
  • Business and Management
  • Media and Communications
  • Advertising and Branding
  • Marketing and PR
  • Entrepreneurship

It can also lead to careers in social media management, content creation, marketing, digital advertising, branding and business development.

You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you build confidence and succeed.You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you build both academic and industry-relevant skills.

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop the skills needed for university-level study.

Do I need previous experience in business or marketing?

No prior experience is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and build your skills step by step.

You can apply to a wide range of university degrees in digital marketing, business, media and communications.

Yes, the course includes elements such as content creation, branding and digital marketing strategies to help you develop practical, real-world skills.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, including projects and written assignments.

Most learners complete the course within 9–12 months, depending on their pace of study and availability.