Level 7
Diploma
Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance
120 credits 1200 hrs TQT Online
RQF Level 7
Certificate
Ofqual-regulated
Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods
Research Methods · Equivalent to a master's degree level (120 credits; dissertation stage completed with a university) · online with LSIB
The OTHM Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods is an Ofqual-regulated Level 7 certificate in Research Methods worth 20 credits (200 hours of total qualification time), delivered online and flexibly by LSIB, an OTHM approved centre. It is equivalent to a master's degree level (120 credits; dissertation stage completed with a university). Most learners complete it in 2 months, 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 7 Certificate in Research Methods?
The objective of the OTHM Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods qualification is to develop learners’ ability to prepare for various types of academically based research through the development and design of a research proposal.
Learners will develop a critical understanding of the philosophical, practical and ethical concepts of research within the context of any environment.
Who is this qualification for?
This Level 7 certificate suits graduates and experienced managers who want master's-level study in research methods with a route to an MBA or MSc top-up.
- 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 7 Certificate in Research Methods qualification, learners must possess:
- An honours degree or UK level 6 diploma or an equivalent overseas qualification.
- Mature learners with management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme).
- Learners must be 21 years old or older at the beginning of the course.
- English requirements: If a learner is not from a majority English-speaking country, they must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information visit English Language Expectations page.
Qualification structure and units
The OTHM Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods consists of 1 mandatory unit, of 20 credits, 200 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 100 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.
| Unit | Type | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Research Methods | Mandatory | 20 |
| Total for the qualification | 20 | |
Source: OTHM qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 603/5746/0.
Duration and delivery
The qualification is designed to be delivered over 2 months 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
You’ll earn 20 credits at Masters level (Level 7) on successful completion of this course. You can use your credits towards further study, including progress to an MBA top-up at London Graduate School. For more information visit University Progressions page.
As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), your employer or professional institute may recognise this course for Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Fees and how to apply
The course fee for the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods 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 7 Certificate in Research Methods
What is the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods equivalent to?
The Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods sits at Level 7 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). Equivalent to a master's degree level (120 credits; dissertation stage completed with a university).
How many credits is the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods?
The qualification carries 20 credits, with 200 hours of Total Qualification Time and 100 Guided Learning Hours. Credits are awarded per unit on successful completion.
How long does the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods take?
OTHM designs the qualification to be completed in 2 months of full-time study; LSIB delivers it online so you can study part-time and pace the assignments around work.
Is the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods 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 603/5746/0. LSIB is an OTHM approved centre.
Are there exams on the Level 7 Certificate in Research Methods?
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 7 Certificate in Research Methods 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 7 Certificate
- Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
- University top-up
Related OTHM qualifications
Who awards and delivers this qualification
Awarding organisation: OTHM Qualifications, regulated by Ofqual. Ofqual qualification number 603/5746/0.
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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