Programme Overview: Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice
The Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice at LEAP Education is a professional qualification delivered 100% online for learners who need flexible, career-focused study without leaving employment. The programme carries 120 credits and is designed to be completed in 9 months, with structured tutor support from enrolment through to certification.
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is awarded by OTHM Qualifications and regulated by Ofqual at RQF Level 5. The qualification totals 120 credits across 7 mandatory units. Ofqual register reference 603/5095/X. LEAP Education delivers this programme 100% online with tutor support.
Standard completion is 9 months; accelerated completion in 6 months is offered on this programme where shown below. Fees from £950. Assessment is through coursework and assignments — there is no requirement to attend a UK campus.
Health and safety officers and practitioners seeking Ofqual-regulated credentials. Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety and IOSH membership pathways.
Global supply chains are collapsing under the weight of stricter ESG mandates and zero-tolerance safety regulations. Companies are no longer hiring safety officers who simply fill out incident reports; they are demanding strategic leaders who can architect compliance frameworks that protect the bottom line from litigation and operational shutdowns.
You will gain the authority to redesign entire operational safety protocols, moving beyond basic hazard identification to systemic risk management. This qualification equips you to lead high-stakes safety audits, negotiate directly with executive boards on resource allocation for risk mitigation, and command the respect of international stakeholders who require certified expertise rather than informal experience.
Entry Requirements
Admissions to the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice are designed to be accessible for motivated professionals. Applicants are typically expected to hold a Level 4 qualification or equivalent (e.g., HNC, Level 4 Diploma). Candidates with 2+ years of relevant professional experience may also be considered where applicable.
- Minimum age 18 at the start of the programme
- English language proficiency sufficient for academic study (IELTS 5.5 equivalent or workplace English)
- Access to a computer and stable internet connection for online learning
- Relevant prior qualification: a Level 4 qualification or equivalent (e.g., HNC, Level 4 Diploma)
- Mature learners with substantial work experience are encouraged to apply — contact admissions for a personalised assessment
Not sure if you qualify? Email admissions@leapedu.uk or WhatsApp +44 7724 870285 for a free eligibility review before you apply.
Fees & Payment Options
LEAP Education offers transparent pricing with flexible payment plans on the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice. An enrolment fee of £10 secures your place; the full programme fee is payable before course activation or via an agreed instalment plan.
- Flexible monthly instalment plans available on request
- No hidden registration or certification surcharges
- Employer sponsorship and corporate billing accepted
- Full fee breakdown provided before you commit — request a personalised quote from our admissions team
Standard fee: £950.00 (9 months)
Fast-track fee: £1250.00 (6 months)
6 months: £1250
Who Is This Programme For?
The Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is designed for working professionals, career changers, and international learners who need a undergraduate-level qualification without attending campus classes.
- Professionals seeking promotion or a salary increase in their current field
- Learners returning to education after several years in the workplace
- International students who need flexible UK-regulated study options
- Entrepreneurs and managers building formal qualifications alongside business experience
- HR, L&D, and workforce teams upskilling employees at scale
Learner Outcomes & Career Progression
Graduates of the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice use the qualification to move into senior operational, management, and specialist roles. The credential supports both immediate employment progression and longer-term academic routes.
Office for National Statistics, ASHE Table 14.7a Annual pay - Gross, full-time — Health and safety managers and officers (SOC 3582). Data year: 2025 provisional (released 23 October 2025). Geography: UK. Occupation: Health and safety managers and officers. Data type: Median gross annual earnings of full-time employee jobs. Not a minimum, maximum, or average of a range. https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/earningsandworkinghours/datasets/occupation4digitsoc2010ashetable14/2025provisional
This figure is the UK median gross annual earnings of full-time employees in the cited occupation. It is not a minimum or a maximum, and it is not the pay of people who completed this qualification. Actual pay varies by location, hours, experience and employer. Completing this qualification does not guarantee employment or this salary.
Indicative UK salary information for related occupations. Figures reflect the referenced occupation and data source, not guaranteed earnings after completing this qualification.
LEAP Education is a brand of Stanmore School of Business Limited, offering Ofqual-regulated qualifications online, based on feedback from over 1,200 graduates across 157 nationalities.
How This Compares to Traditional Study
| Feature | LEAP Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice | Traditional campus route |
|---|---|---|
| Study mode | 100% online, self-paced | Fixed timetable, campus attendance |
| Duration | 9 months (fast-track: 6 months) | Typically 3–4 years full-time |
| Total cost | From £950.00 | £9,000–£27,000+ per year (UK average) |
| Working while studying | Designed for employed learners | Often difficult alongside full-time work |
| Assessment | Assignment-based with tutor feedback | Exams plus coursework mix |
Frequently Asked Questions About Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice
What kind of support can I expect from LEAP Education while studying the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice?
We offer dedicated student support through email, phone, and online chat. Our experienced tutors are available to guide you through the course, answer questions, and provide feedback on your assignments. You'll also have access to our online community, where you can connect with fellow students and share knowledge and experiences.
Is the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice accredited, and what does this mean for my career?
Yes, this diploma is accredited by Ofqual (the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). Accreditation ensures that the course meets the UK's national standards for occupational health and safety education, making it a valuable qualification for professionals looking to advance their careers.
What career outcomes can I expect after completing the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice?
Graduates of this diploma can progress to senior health and safety roles, such as Health and Safety Manager, Senior HSE Advisor, or Occupational Health Specialist. Some students have even gone on to start their own health and safety consulting businesses.
How is the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice structured, and what's the study format like?
This diploma is delivered online over 9 months, with 12 units to complete. Each unit is approximately 15-20 hours of study, including assignments, quizzes, and a final assessment. Our platform is designed for flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit your learning around your work schedule.
What are the admission requirements for the Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice?
To be eligible for this diploma, you'll need a Level 3 qualification (e.g., A-levels or equivalent), plus relevant work experience in a health and safety role. If you don't have a qualification but have extensive work experience, you may be considered for entry. We recommend checking the course details and contacting us for a personalized assessment.
Ready to start Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice?
View programme details, fees, and enrolment steps on the official course page.
View Full Course & Apply →