If you're looking for quick and affordable options to get a Diploma in Business Management, here are the best paths, categorized by online, local South African, and international options. The aim is to balance speed, cost, and recognition.
1.1. Alison – Diploma in Business Management
Cost: Free (Pay ~$30 for a certificate or ~$100 for diploma version)
Duration: 10–15 hours total (can be completed in 1 week)
Recognition: Not accredited, but good for learning and proof of effort
Website: alison.com
1.2. Coursera – Business Management Specializations
Providers: University of London, University of Illinois, University of Virginia, etc.
Cost: Free to audit / ~$39–59 per month for certification
Duration: 1–6 months depending on pace
Recognition: Industry-recognized; stackable towards degrees
Good for: Entry-level job seekers, international recognition
Bonus: Financial aid available
1.3. Google Career Certificates (Coursera) – Project Management or Business Foundations
Cost: ~$39/month
Duration: ~6 months (can fast-track)
Recognition: Recognized by Google and many employers
Website: coursera.org/google
1.4. edX MicroBachelors / MicroMasters in Business
Providers: Arizona State University, Wharton (UPenn), IIMB, etc.
Cost: From ~$150+
Duration: 2–6 months
Recognition: Strong brand reputation
Bonus: Some credits may transfer to full degrees
2.1. Oxbridge Academy – National Diploma: Business Management
Cost: ~R1200/month x 12 months
Duration: 12–24 months (self-paced)
Accreditation: QCTO/SAQA (locally recognized)
Mode: Distance learning
Website: oxbridgeacademy.edu.za
2.2. Skills Academy – Business Management Courses
Cost: From R900/month
Duration: Short courses to 2-year diplomas
Accreditation: Depends on the course – check for NATED or QCTO
Website: skillsacademy.co.za
2.3. IIE Rosebank College – Higher Certificate in Business Management
Cost: ~R20,000–R30,000/year
Duration: 1 year full-time
Accreditation: Fully accredited (DHET, SAQA)
Good for: Matriculants wanting formal study without university
These aren't full diplomas, but they boost your knowledge and employability:
LinkedIn Learning – Business Strategy, Leadership, Marketing, etc.
Free 1-month trial, certificates issued
HubSpot Academy – Free business, sales, and marketing courses
Google Digital Garage – Free courses with certification
Goal
Recommended Option
Cheapest, fastest, basic knowledge
Alison or Coursera audit
Recognized locally
Oxbridge or Skills Academy
International recognition
Coursera / Google Certificates
Pathway to a degree
edX MicroMasters / IIE Rosebank