are Management Level 5 Equivalent to the second year of a degree course, once you have completed your level 5 studies, can progress to university to achieve your full degree?

Rachel Donnelly, Course Information Editor The Level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management Online (RQF, 120 Credits) sits at the same level on the Regulated Qualifications Framework as the second year of a UK undergraduate degree. It carries 120 credits, which is exactly half of the 240 credits required for a full bachelor’s honours degree. This structural equivalence is why many universities accept it as entry into the final year of a relevant degree programme, often termed a "top-up" year. However, equivalence in level does not guarantee automatic progression. Each university sets its own entry criteria. While the OTHM qualification is Ofqual regulated and widely recognised, you must check with individual institutions. Most require your Level 5 to be in a related subject, such as health, social care, or management. Some may also ask for relevant work experience or a personal statement. The qualification prepares you academically, but the final decision rests with the university admissions team. This route is popular because it allows experienced practitioners to validate their existing knowledge before committing to a full degree. It is a recognised stepping stone, not a substitute for the final year of study. You will still need to complete the Level 6 module to achieve the full bachelor’s degree. The process is straightforward, but requires careful selection of a partner university that accepts OTHM credits.