Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Business
Course Code: P163634
Key Information
Course type:
Vocational
Campus:
Highbury Campus
Next Start Date:
07 Sept 2026
Duration:
1 year
Attendance:
Full-time
Fees:
Free

The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Business is designed for students who are keen to gain a strong foundation in core business concepts while developing real-world knowledge and practical skills that employers and universities value. It forms the first year of the Extended National Diploma, which you can progress onto after successful completion of year one.
This qualification will particularly appeal to learners who enjoy applying theory to realistic workplace scenarios and want to explore areas such as marketing, finance, human resources, management, and enterprise. Whether you aspire to run your own business, progress into a career in business administration, marketing, accountancy, or continue into higher education, this course provides a strong and versatile starting point.
Units include:
- exploring business
- developing a marketing campaign
- personal and business finance
- managing an event
- digital marketing
- employment law.
The course encourages the development of essential employability skills, such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving.
This course is equivalent to one and a half A Levels, which increases to the equivalent of three if you complete both year one (foundation) and year two (extended).
You will also complete a work experience placement and could gain experience in accounting, marketing, estate agency or at events, such as the Shaping Portsmouth Conference.
If you're motivated, organised, and eager to understand how businesses succeed and adapt in today’s competitive world, the BTEC National Diploma in Business could be the ideal route for you.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and English.
City of Portsmouth College is firmly committed to ensuring all students achieve their qualifications and have an outstanding learning experience during their time at the College. We recognise the importance and value of outstanding attendance and punctuality to students achieving success, including progression to higher levels of study, gaining employment, and gaining promotion in employment. Frequent absences and lateness impact upon student achievement as well as the acquisition of behaviours required at the workplace.
You will be expected to maintain a minimum of 90% attendance. You will also complete a minimum of 30 hours’ work experience in a business-related role.
You will complete a mix of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed tasks and exams. Assessment could include report writing, presentations, project completion and case studies. 60% is set and graded internally, subject to external verification. 40% is set and graded externally, through examinations and set tasks. You will also have the opportunity to develop a work experience journal and design your own ePortfolio.
You can progress to the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Business or another suitable Level 3 course. This one-year programme is the equivalent of one and a half A Levels.
Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Business available start dates:
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