This comprehensive programme is designed to equip participants with essential management skills, tools, and techniques to advance their own enterprises and guide the development of social organisations. The diploma is a collaborative effort between Aces Academy and the following institutions:

Partner Universities:

Partner NGOs:

Programme Structure:

The Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship is composed of three key stages:

Stage 1: ARPEL Process

Core Modules or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): 4 Core Modules or the ARPEL Process for the recognition of prior learning and experience.

Specialist Modules (32 ECTS Credits)

Students will complete 8 specialist modules (each worth 4 ECTS credits). These modules provide a broad understanding of the challenges in managing NGOs and transforming them into social enterprises:

  1. Award in Creativity & Thinking Skills for Social Enterprises
  2. Award in Project Management for Social Enterprises
  3. Award in Legal Frameworks for Social Enterprises
  4. Award in Working with Apprentices/Volunteers for Social Enterprises
  5. Award in Social Enterprise Development
  6. Award in Fundraising for Social Enterprises
  7. Award in Risk Management for Social Enterprises
  8. Award in Good Governance for Social Enterprises

Research Project OR Internship & Embedded Project Report (26 ECTS Credits)

Upon completing Stages 1 and 2, students must choose between the following options:

  • Research Project
    A research-based activity where students independently explore research interests, identify knowledge gaps, and develop a research plan. This project will enhance students’ analytical and investigative skills, culminating in data sets, public presentations, and abstracts suitable for publication.
  • Internship & Embedded Project Report
    Alternatively, students can opt for an internship at a suitable organisation. During the internship, they will complete a research project using internal organisational data to address specific management issues. A final report, focusing on business development within the host organisation, will be submitted within 12 weeks of completing the internship.

This internship provides hands-on experience and allows students to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Interns receive continuous support through journal writing, mentor feedback, midterm evaluations, and a final analytical report.

  1. Internship & Business Development Project: A 12-week internship followed by a 14-week period for completing a business development project report. The final report is evaluated, and students will present their findings to an assessment panel via video conference.
  2. Research Project: A research-based project focusing on a specialised area of business expertise chosen by the student.

To apply for the Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship or its component stages, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  1. Educational Qualification:
    • A Level 5 Diploma or higher, OR
    • A Level 4 Diploma (e.g., Advanced Level certificates) with a Grade C or better and a minimum of 2 years’ work experience.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • For students whose first language is not English and who have not completed previous qualifications in English, evidence of English language proficiency is required.
    • Minimum required level: IELTS level 5 or an equivalent qualification.

Prospective students over the age of 25 are eligible to apply without a Level 4 diploma if they provide a CV and a work reference demonstrating at least 2 years of work experience and relevant skills and competencies.

1. Level 4 and Level 5 Students (Non-Business Background):

  • Students from non-business fields who understand the growing impact of Social Enterprise concepts on their careers and wish to enhance their competencies for future career advancement.

2. Management Staff in NGOs and Social Enterprises:

  • Managers working within NGOs and Social Enterprises who want to build on their practical experience by gaining a more comprehensive, specialised, and theoretical understanding of social enterprises, backed by current research and international best practices.

3. Managers with Relevant Work Experience:

  • Managers with experience outside Social Enterprises who wish to transition into the Social Enterprise sector by developing the necessary skills and competencies for success in this field.

    The Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship is ideal for:

By the end of the Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, learners will be able to:

  1. Apply Entrepreneurial Knowledge:
    Demonstrate a professional approach by applying both entrepreneurial and social entrepreneurial knowledge in real-world contexts.
  2. Organize and Lead Teams:
    Effectively organize activities and manage tasks for staff, interns, and volunteers within the organisation.
  3. Apply Core Project Management Principles:
    Identify resources and constraints and implement project management principles to plan and ensure that deliverables are met as promised within Social Enterprise operations.
  4. Manage Risk:
    Recognize and manage the risks associated with achieving success in a social enterprise.
  5. Utilize Collaborative and Analytical Skills:
    Apply the analytical and collaborative skills acquired through simulations in real business environments.
  6. Develop Research Plans:
    Use Social Entrepreneurship knowledge to design a research plan tailored to specific research questions and challenges.
  7. Implement New Strategies:
    Initiate and implement new plans, procedures, or ideas that can drive improvements within the organisation.

Contact Hours: 466
(Instructor-led sessions, lectures, and tutorials)

Self-Study Hours: 1,646
(Independent learning, reading, and assignments)

Supervised Placement & Practice Hours: 24
(Internship or practical experience under supervision)

Assessment Hours: 114
(Exams, assignments, and project assessments)

Mode of Delivery:

  • Online: Courses are delivered through the eLearning platform at https://acesacademyonline.com/
  • Onsite: In-person classes are held at Aces Academy Centre 115 Triq Il-Flotta, Il-Gżira GZR 1070, Malta.

Language of Instruction: English

This offers flexibility for learners to choose between online or onsite learning, depending on their preference and availability

Core Modules:

  • Assignment / Case Study: 50% of the module grade
  • Forum Discussions: 30% of the module grade
  • Tutorial Participation: 20% of the module grade

Specialist Modules:

  • Assignment / Case Study: 60% of the module grade
  • Forum Discussions: 20% of the module grade
  • Tutorial Participation: 20% of the module grade

To successfully pass a module, students must achieve an aggregate score of 50% or higher from the combined assessments.

Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship (90 ECTS):

  • Online: €6,030 (Part-Time, 74 weeks)
  • Blended: €7,930 (Full-Time, 52 weeks)

Undergraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship (64 ECTS):

  • Online: €4,920 (Part-Time, 48 weeks)
  • Blended: €6,520 (Full-Time, 48 weeks)

Individual Course Module Fees (EQF/MQF Level 5 – 8 ECTS, 6 weeks duration):

  • Core Modules:
  • Online: €610
  • Blended: €810
  • Specialist Modules:
  • Online: €410
  • Blended: €610
  • Partial scholarships may be available.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

For more information about the terms, conditions, and benefits of these incentives, please contact us at https://acesacademyonline.com/.

Intake #1: 29/01/2024

Intake #2: 11/03/2024

Intake #3: 22/04/2024

Intake #4: 03/06/2024

Intake #5: 15/07/2024

Intake #6: 02/09/2024

Intake #7: 14/10/2024

Intake #8: 25/11/2024

For inquiries, please reach out to us at:

Download the Programme Leaflet

The Undergraduate Higher Diploma in SME Management is an excellent opportunity to develop essential skills for thriving in the dynamic world of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This programme is structured into three comprehensive stages, each designed to provide you with practical knowledge and tools in effective SME management practices. By enrolling in this diploma, you will be well-prepared to take on managerial roles and contribute to the growth and success of SMEs.

Application Process

  1. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready before starting your application.
  2. Complete the Online Application Form: Begin your application by clicking [Register Here] to access the registration form. Make sure to fill out all required fields accurately to avoid delays.
  3. Submit Your Application: Once you submit the form, you’ll receive a confirmation email regarding the status of your application. If your application is successful, further instructions will be sent to guide you through the next steps.

Important Information for Non-EU Students

If you are a non-EU student wishing to enrol in the blended learning option at Aces Academy, please be aware that a visa is required to study in Malta. For comprehensive information on the application process and requirements, please visit the Identity Malta – Central Visa Unit website. You can access the site through this link: Identity Malta – Central Visa Unit.

For more assistance with the application or any other queries, feel free to contact our admissions team at admin@aea.academy or Info@acesacademyonline.com

PROGRAMME: Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship

EQF/MQF*: Level 5

*European Qualification Framework/Malta Qualification Framework

CREDITS: 90 ECTS

DELIVERY & DURATION:

Online Learning – 74 weeks

Blended Learning – 52 weeks

LANGUAGE: English

Programme Application Procedure for Students (Online Learning Programmes)

This programme offers a unique opportunity for international students to experience blended learning in Malta, a stunning Mediterranean island. Key features include:

  • The chance to travel and study in Malta

  • The ability to work part-time while pursuing your studies

  • Earn a European-accredited qualification via an online platform

  • Weekly online tutorials with industry experts

  • On-site support classes at Aces Academy’s Learning Centre in Valletta

Programme Application Procedure for Students (Blended Learning Programmes in Malta) 

Register Here

Aces Academy Online operates in partnership with Advenio eAcademy (MFHEA Licence number: 2013-FHI-006), a Further & Higher Education Institution established in 2013 and based in Malta, ensuring accredited and internationally recognised learning experiences.

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