CMI Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice (RQF) - Level 7
The senior-level CMI qualification for directors and senior leaders — develop strategic thinking, governance, and organisational leadership skills.
or £909/year (save 15%)
Is this course right for you?
This course is for you if…
- ✓ You're in or aspiring to a senior leadership or director-level role
- ✓ You want a Level 7 qualification equivalent to a postgraduate diploma
- ✓ You want to develop strategic and organisational leadership skills
- ✓ You're planning a pathway to Chartered Manager (CMgr) status
After this course, you can…
- → Apply for Chartered Manager (CMgr) status via CMI
- → Lead at board and director level with a recognised qualification
- → Progress into C-suite or executive leadership roles
You'll need…
- • Significant management experience (typically 3+ years at senior level)
- • Access to a computer or tablet with internet
- • No formal qualifications required (experience is key)
- • Good standard of English
What you'll study
The CMI Strategic Management Level 7 covers the key topics you need to succeed.
Develop advanced strategic leadership skills including vision-setting, strategic planning, and leading organisational change. Explore how to influence at board level and drive long-term performance.
Master the art of developing and leading high-performance teams at a strategic level. Cover talent management, succession planning, organisational culture, and executive coaching.
Examine how to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion into organisational strategy. Develop approaches that go beyond compliance to create genuinely inclusive workplaces and leadership cultures.
Learn to manage complex, multi-stakeholder programmes and projects at a strategic level. Cover governance frameworks, portfolio management, risk, and benefit realisation.
Understand corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical leadership. Develop strategies that balance organisational performance with social and environmental impact.
Develop advanced financial management skills including strategic financial planning, investment appraisal, and financial governance. Make informed decisions that protect and grow organisational value.
6 modules · Approximately 10 hours per week study time
How you'll learn
Online Materials
Study at your pace with interactive content
Instant Study Support
Ask a question any time — get a clear answer in seconds, 24/7
Expert Tutors
Qualified humans mark your work within 5 days
Flexible Schedule
Learn around your life, work, and family
Mobile Friendly
Study anywhere on any device
Regular Feedback
Know exactly where you stand at all times
Where this course takes you
What achieving your CMI Strategic Management Level 7 qualification can open up for you.
Salary range for CMI Level 7 qualified senior leaders in the UK
Direct pathway to Chartered Manager — the highest management designation
Equivalent to a postgraduate diploma — recognised by employers globally
Career progression
Your professional pathway after completing the CMI Strategic Management Level 7 qualification.
Now: CMI Level 7 Diploma
Develop senior leadership and strategic management skills with the UK's most respected management body. Study online around your executive commitments for £89/month.
Next: Chartered Manager (CMgr)
Apply for Chartered Manager status — the highest accolade from CMI. CMgr holders demonstrate the highest level of management and leadership capability.
Then: Director / C-Suite / Board Level
Lead at the highest levels of your organisation with confidence and credibility. CMI Level 7 holders earn £55,000–£90,000+, with C-suite roles commanding significantly more.
Support included with your subscription
Ask a question at midnight, get a clear answer in seconds. And if you ever need deeper help, your named human tutor is never more than a business day away.
| What you need | How it works | Response time |
|---|---|---|
| Quick question about your coursework | Intelligent study assistant | Instant — 24/7 |
| Feedback on practice work | Instant review with detailed notes | Instant — 24/7 |
| Stuck on a complex concept | Step-by-step explanation with examples | Instant — 24/7 |
| Need human guidance or reassurance | Your named, qualified tutor | Within 1 business day |
| Formal assessment marking | Human tutor reviews and grades | Within 3 business days |
Frequently asked questions
This course is designed for experienced managers and leaders, typically with 3+ years in a senior management role. There are no formal qualification requirements — your experience is what matters most.
The CMI Level 7 Diploma is equivalent in level to a postgraduate diploma (one step below a full master's degree). It carries significant weight with employers and is the direct route to Chartered Manager status.
The CMI Level 7 Diploma costs £89 per month or £899/year (save 15%). This includes all course materials, instant study support, tutor guidance, and assessment fees. CMI registration is included. There are no hidden costs.
Chartered Manager (CMgr) is the gold standard for management professionals. It's awarded by CMI to those who can demonstrate exceptional management and leadership practice. Completing the Level 7 Diploma is the primary route to CMgr.
Lead at the highest level
Gain the strategic management qualification that opens boardroom doors.