Level 5
Diploma
Level 5 Diploma in Project Management
120 credits 1200 hrs TQT one year Online
RQF Level 5
Diploma
Ofqual-regulated
Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology
Information Technology · Equivalent to Year 2 of a UK bachelor's degree · online with LSIB
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is an Ofqual-regulated Level 5 diploma in Information Technology worth 120 credits (1200 hours of total qualification time), delivered online and flexibly by LSIB, an OTHM approved centre. It is equivalent to Year 2 of a UK bachelor's degree. Most learners complete it in one year, studying part-time around work. You can apply online today, download the brochure, or ask for the full course details by email.
What is the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology?
The objective of the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology is to provide learners with an excellent foundation for a career in a range of organisations. It designed to ensure that each learner is ‘business ready’: a confident, independent thinker with a detailed knowledge of Information Technology, and equipped with the skills to adapt rapidly to change.
The qualification is ideal for those who have started, or are planning to move into, a career in private or public sector business. Successful completion of the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology will provide learners with the opportunity to progress to further study or employment.
Who is this qualification for?
This Level 5 diploma suits learners who hold a Level 4 qualification or equivalent experience and want second-year degree-level knowledge in information technology.
- Study fully online with tutor support from LSIB, with no fixed timetable.
- Assessment by assignments, so you can evidence learning from your own workplace.
- Each level carries 120 credits, so you can progress one level at a time.
Entry requirements
For entry onto the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology qualification, learners must possess:
- Relevant NQF/QCF/RQF Level 4 Diploma or equivalent
- Learner must be 18 years or older at the beginning of the course
- English requirements: If a learner is not from a majority English-speaking country must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information visit English Language Expectations page.
Qualification structure and units
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology consists of 6 mandatory units for a combined total of 120 credits, 1200 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 480 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.
| Unit | Type | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineering | Mandatory | 20 |
| Database Systems | Mandatory | 20 |
| Advanced Systems Analysis and Design | Mandatory | 20 |
| Management Information Systems | Mandatory | 20 |
| Network Information Systems | Mandatory | 20 |
| IT Project Management | Mandatory | 20 |
| Total for the qualification | 120 | |
Source: OTHM qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 603/3614/6.
Duration and delivery
The qualification is designed to be delivered over one academic year for full-time study, but it is also flexible in its delivery in order to accommodate part-time and distance learning.
The qualification is delivered face-to-face, through lectures, tutorials, seminars, distance, online by approved centres only.
At LSIB the qualification is delivered online: you receive the unit materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit assignments when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.
How you are assessed
All units within this qualification are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘pass’ for a unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria. Judgement that the learners have successfully fulfilled the assessment criteria is made by the Assessor.
The Assessor should provide an audit trail showing how the judgement of the learners’ overall achievement has been arrived at.
Progression and career routes
The Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology qualification has been developed with career progression and professional recognition in mind. Successful completion of this qualification provides learners the opportunity for a wide range of academic progressions including OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology. For more information visit University Progressions page in this website.
Fees and how to apply
The course fee for the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology at LSIB depends on how quickly you choose to complete the qualification. Every programme is available in two duration modes.
| Duration mode | Length | Course fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard mode | 9 months | £950 |
| Accelerated mode / Fast-track | 6 months | £1,250 |
The fee is payable in monthly or quarterly instalments. It includes tuition, learning materials, assessment and OTHM registration and certification.
Fee payment plans
9 months (Standard mode)
| Plan | Instalments | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | 5 × £190 | £950 |
| Quarterly | 2 × £475 | £950 |
| Pay in full (Save 5%) | 1 × £903 | £903 |
6 months (Accelerated / Fast-track)
| Plan | Instalments | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | 3 × £416 | £1,248 |
| Pay in full (Save 5%) | 1 × £1,188 | £1,188 |
You can avail a 5% discount if you pay the full course fee upfront in one instalment (bursary amounts shown in the tables).
The enrolment fee is £10 when you submit your application. It is separate from the course fee above.
- Apply and pay the £10 enrolment fee Use Apply now to open the application form with this programme pre-selected. Complete the form, upload your ID and qualification certificates (or a CV showing relevant experience), and pay the £10 enrolment fee to submit.
- Application review and course-fee link Admissions review your application within one working day. If you are approved, we email you a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan.
- Start your course As soon as your course fee (or first instalment, if you chose a plan) is paid, you receive your learning-platform login and can begin the first unit. There is no fixed intake date.
Frequently asked questions about the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology
What is the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology equivalent to?
The Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology sits at Level 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). Equivalent to Year 2 of a UK bachelor's degree.
How many credits is the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology?
The qualification carries 120 credits, with 1200 hours of Total Qualification Time and 480 Guided Learning Hours. Credits are awarded per unit on successful completion.
How long does the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology take?
OTHM designs the qualification to be completed in one year of full-time study; LSIB delivers it online so you can study part-time and pace the assignments around work.
Is the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology recognised?
Yes. OTHM Qualifications is an awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual in England, and this qualification is listed on the Ofqual register under qualification number 603/3614/6. LSIB is an OTHM approved centre.
Are there exams on the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology?
No. OTHM qualifications are assessed by written assignments for each unit, marked by the centre and externally verified by OTHM.
How do I apply for the Level 5 Diploma in Information Technology with LSIB?
Apply online through the LSIB application portal (Apply now), pay the £10 enrolment fee, and upload your documents. Admissions review your application within one working day. If approved, you receive a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan. You start as soon as course fee payment clears.
Progression path
- Level 4 Diploma
- Level 5 Diploma
- Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology
Related OTHM qualifications
Other OTHM Information Technology qualifications
- Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Information Technology — 60 credits
- Level 4 Diploma in Information Technology — 120 credits
- Level 5 Extended Diploma in Information Technology — 240 credits
- Level 6 Diploma in Information Technology — 120 credits
Who awards and delivers this qualification
Awarding organisation: OTHM Qualifications, regulated by Ofqual. Ofqual qualification number 603/3614/6.
Delivery centre: London School of International Business Ltd (LSIB), 622 Crown House, North Circular Road, Park Royal, London NW10 7PN — OTHM approved centre since 2007.
Source: OTHM qualification specification (PDF); facts on this page are taken from it and re-checked nightly.
Last reviewed 18 October 2026Published by LSIB admissions team
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