Apprenticeship Handbook
Senior Leader Apprenticeship (Health & Care) plus optional Exec MBA
Level 7
Part time
22 months inc EPA Optional Executive MBA - please allow a further 6 months.
Location
Nationwide
Faculty of Business and Innovation
What makes Arden University special?
Education for everyone, everywhere
Whether you're constrained by location, cost, time, or other life commitments, we're passionate about giving you access to higher education that fits into your busy, modern life.
You decide how and where to study
We offer a wide range of flexible undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in both our online and blended study modes.
Full support both online and on-site
We're also proud to offer non-standard entry, meaning your work experience and previous qualifications are taken into account when assessing your application.
Strong focus on employability
You will gain in-depth subject knowledge and transferable skills that employers from a huge range of industries will value. Many of our courses at Arden are also accredited by leading professional bodies in the UK.
Course Overview
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship (Health and Care) plus optional Executive MBA has been designed for ambitious health and care leaders who want to accelerate to the next stage of their career and lead departments, services, systems of care or transformation projects. The apprenticeship builds on our belief in harnessing pioneering technology to support learning and equip leaders with lifelong leadership skills to thrive in their careers and ultimately better serve their communities.
The programme provides current and future leaders with the knowledge, high-level leadership and management skills and desired behaviours to become more effective, while delivering professional pan-industry leadership qualifications and a professional pathway to Chartered Manager status.
CMI accredited
Following successful completion of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship, and the Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Business Administration, you will receive Chartered Manager status with the CMI.
Optional Executive MBA at no extra cost
Following successful completion of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship, and the Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Business Administration, you have the free of charge option to continue your learning and complete the Arden University Executive MBA.
Taught by Health and Care experts
Taught by subject matter experts from our School of Health and Care Management, you will benefit from sector discussion, case studies and relevant context, whilst being exposed to the broad business curriculum of the Executive MBA. Apprentices will join a dedicated cohort of health and care professionals to facilitate and enable collaborative learning, innovation and development across the sector.
Global top ten Executive MBA
Our Executive MBA has been rated in the global number top ten by CEO Magazine, and also benefits from CMI accreditation, providing you with the prestigious CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Management. That means you’ll graduate with your Executive MBA alongside a professional recognition and a qualification that’s also recognised across the globe.
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Accreditation and Memberships
BGA Membership
Arden University is a member of the Business Graduates Association (BGA), meaning students will receive complementary BGA membership.
AACSB Membership
Arden University is a member of the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
CMI Accredited
This course awards a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice and grants graduates Chartered Manager Status.
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Professional accreditation
This course is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute, supporting your career and connecting you with likeminded professionals.
Course details and modules
Designed for anyone who wants to move to the next stage of their career with support from their employer, this course will provide you with the fundamentals of leadership and business management, giving you the scope to take on any challenge in your professional life. Whether you’re a new or existing employee, studying Arden University’s flexible Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship course will boost your career potential and give you an in-depth understanding of strategic thinking in all areas of business.
Arden was recommended by our HR team as a suitable fit for me and the company. After investigating what Arden had to offer, I realised it would be perfect for my circumstances... I’m excited to implement more of the skills that I have learnt from my apprenticeship into my daily work.
Skye van Heyzen
L7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship Plus MBA
Modules
Phase one
- Competitive Strategy (20 credits)
- Leading Global Teams & Organisations (20 credits)
- Financial Management (20 credits)
- Contemporary Marketing Communications Planning (20 credits)
- Managing Digital Transformation & Innovation (20 credits)
- Project Analytics (20 credits)
Phase two
- Transformation Capstone Project (60 credits)
To achieve the Executive MBA, you will continue your learning journey to complete the Transformation Capstone Project module of the Executive MBA programme at no additional cost. Typically, this takes 6 months, although we also offer flexibility to complete the Research Project over 12 months for learners who need a little extra time.
How do we assess you?
Apprentices will use their own workplace to ensure that real life work scenarios are being assessed whilst working towards Level 7 and EMBA qualifications. The way we assess our apprentices provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths in a variety of ways while still fulfilling your job. That’s why we choose a range of different methods to keep track of your progress. These include:
- Workplace based assessments
- Assignments
- Reports
- Audits
- Case studies
- Work-based project
- Presentations
- Professional discussion
- Portfolios
- Regular coaching
Study options
You will access your modules through our virtual classroom, ilearn and complete all the module lessons. Throughout each study block you will attend your scheduled teaching and learning sessions during working hours, attend your 1-2-1 coaching sessions and undertake your workplace assignment and coach led activities. Your coach will guide you to ensure you are effectively applying and evidencing your new knowledge, whilst developing and demonstrating the skills and behaviours considered essential for success in your role.
It’s been absolutely brilliant. The development days allow us to bounce ideas off each other and gain experience from people with different backgrounds. It really brings our online learning to life. I really look forward to attending these.
Rob Wyatt
Senior Leader Masters Degree Apprenticeship
How is this programme delivered?
This programme is split into two phases:
Phase One
Phase one of the programme is the Senior Leader Apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship is delivered over 18 months followed by up to 5 months for the End Point Assessment. During these months, you will be an apprentice and your employer will ensure you are provided with the required off-the-job training time to dedicate to your studies.
Some of your off-the-job time will be dedicated to attending university through our virtual classroom, undertaking both self-guided and scheduled learning across six modules.
You will also attend regular virtual 1-2-1 coaching sessions with your dedicated Arden Degree Apprenticeship Coach. Your coach will support you to continually apply your learning in your role and develop a portfolio of evidence to showcase your ongoing development and mastery of the apprenticeship knowledge, skills and behaviours, which underpin successful end-point assessment.
Delivery Overview
In phase one of the programme, you will be an apprentice and:
- Receive monthly 1-2-1 coaching support
- Undertake flexible self-guided online learning
- Attend regular half-day live virtual workshop sessions
- Attend optional academic skills support sessions
- Attend a quarterly virtual progress review with your Arden University coach and line manager
- Have the required off-the-job learning hours support from your employer
Phase Two
Phase two of the programme is the Executive MBA (EMBA).
Following successful completion of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship, and the Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Business Administration, you have the free-of-charge option to complete the Arden University Executive MBA.
To achieve the EMBA you will continue your learning journey to complete the Transformation Capstone Project of the Executive MBA programme. In this 60-credit module, you will submit a 15,000-word Transformation Capstone Project, bringing together all you have learned on the programme to date. Typically, this takes 6 months, although we also offer flexibility to complete the Transformation Capstone Project over 12 months for learners who need a little extra time.
Entry requirements
At Arden University we consider applications on a case by case basis. If you have significant work experience, have qualifications you have gained elsewhere, or a degree or qualification that isn't a clear pathway to this degree - we are more than happy to discuss your application.
What you need to study with us
Our aim is to make learning as accessible as possible by ensuring that you can study in a flexible and convenient way. That's why we keep our requirements simple. All you need is a laptop or desktop PC (we recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good internet connection. Through ilearn, our online university campus in the cloud, you'll be able to access your course calendar, support services, learning materials, and our online library containing thousands of ebooks, as well as tools for creating assignments, keeping notes, and collaborating with other students on your course.
Find out more
Eligibility
If you would like to enrol on the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be in a job role with responsibilities aligned with the Senior Leader Apprenticeship Standard.
- Be employed in a job where you do and will spend at least 50% of your working time in England over the duration of your apprenticeship.
- Be a UK/EU/EAA resident for at least three years prior to starting the apprenticeship
- Have evidence of funding eligibility from your employer
- A UK Honours Degree at a minimum of second class (2.2) or equivalent plus two years relevant management and leadership experience.*
- Have proficiency in the English language if any prior learning has not previously been taught in English IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element); or TOEFL iBT 90 or equivalent
*We will also consider applications from students who lack formal qualifications but can demonstrate their motivation to study the course and possess 5 years of relevant management and leadership experience.
Please note, the apprenticeship route is not suitable for candidates who already hold a qualification at the same level or above, in this subject area.
Level 2 English and Maths requirements
It is a condition of apprenticeship funding, at any level, that all applicants can evidence GCSE English and Maths passes at grade A*- C/9-4 or commit to completing Functional Skills Level 2, in addition to the programme. If required, this is provided at no additional cost.
Course fees and funding
Meet the faculty
Dr. Stephanie West joined Arden University in November 2020 and is the Head of the School of School of Leadership & Service Industry Management. In addition to her wealth of healthcare industry experience, Stephanie has held a number of Senior Academic and Leadership positions in Health, Social Care and Applied Science faculties at a variety of universities across the UK.
Stephanie will provide leadership to the School of School of Leadership & Service Industry Management, ensuring that it delivers high quality academic provision and student satisfaction across all courses.
Dr. Stephanie West
Head of School - School of Leadership & Service Industry Management
Career prospects
It’s never too late to get another qualification under your belt. This Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship has been designed for people who want to accelerate their career and take the next step up from their current leadership role. Or, if you’re looking to formalise your experience as a senior leader with a qualification - this apprenticeship will suit you perfectly.
Related courses
- Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, BA (Hons) Business Management (CMI)
- Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, BSc (Hons) Health and Care Management (CMI)
- BSc (Hons) Level 6 Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship (APM)
- Level 6 Supply Chain Leadership Professional Degree Apprenticeship BSc (Hons) Supply Chain Management (CILT, CIPS)
What will the Senior Leader Apprenticeship do for me?
Upon successful completion of phase one, the Senior Leader Apprenticeship, you will be awarded:
- IfATE Senior Leader Apprenticeship
- Arden University Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Business Administration (subject to completing all module assessments)
- Chartered Manager Status with CMI
What will the optional extension to the Executive MBA do for me?
On completion of phase two, the Executive MBA Transformation Capstone Project, you will receive:
- Arden University Executive MBA
- Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI)*
If you choose to complete the Executive MBA, you will not be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Business Administration. Instead, the credits will count towards your Exec MBA.
*Upon completion of your course, the CMI award and level of chartered status awarded will depend on your level and length of study, whether you entered your course with Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL) or if any compensation is applied on your modules throughout the duration of study. If this criteria applies to you, you may receive one of the 2 different levels; an Award or Certificate.
Industry skills
Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) promotes excellence in UK management and leadership. The institute aims to boost career development across the management sector and connect you with likeminded professionals across diverse sectors.
As the CMI possesses a Royal Charter, they are the only organisation in the UK that can award Chartered Manager status to their members – the gold standard in management. They are also active in business policy making across the globe, and ensure that their more than 140,000 members are represented in policy decision making.
As an Arden student, you’ll have free CMI Membership throughout your studies, giving you access to a range of additional resources including a mentoring service and invitations to networking events both online and offline.
Institute of Health & Social Care Management (IHSCM)
This course is endorsed by the Institute of Health & Social Care Management (IHSCM), whose aim is to create a supportive professional body that is relevant in its activities and modern in its approach and who holds sector leaders in the NHS, social care, third sector and private healthcare amongst its members. The IHSCM works with Arden University to contribute to curriculum development and delivery. As an Arden student, you’ll become a student member of the Institute, giving you access to a diverse range of events, conferences, workshops and networks as well as opportunities for mentoring and coaching. You are also encouraged to apply for full membership of the Institute once you graduate from the course.
Skills for Health
Skills for Health is the UK's leading authority on skills and workforce development for the health sector. NHS and healthcare employers across the UK collaborate with Skills for Help to develop skills, roles, competencies, and strategies that provide better patient outcomes. They champion the entire workforce.
The Quality Mark is the UK’s benchmark for exceptional healthcare training and development. Being endorsed by the Quality Mark ensures that an organisation's training is world class, and has passed a rigorous review process of its delivery, strategy, and quality assurance practices.
Business Graduates Association (BGA)
The BGA is a membership and quality assurance body. As a member, Arden University have signed up to the BGA Charter, committing their institution to responsible management practices and lifelong learning, positively impacting their students, communities, and the economy. This shows our students that we are demonstrating responsible management ourselves, as well as it being a central theme that runs through our own courses.
As Arden University is a member of the Business Graduates Association (BGA), students will receive complementary BGA student and graduate membership. Through this membership, current students will have access to the BGA Career Development Centre, packed with interactive tools, e-learning content, partner discounts and the latest job opportunities. This is a lifetime access, which means students will continue to have access to these services even after they graduate.
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