Risk Assessment and Decision Making – Free Level 1 Course

Oxford Home Study Centre offers this free Level 1 course for learners who want a structured introduction to risk and the role it plays in everyday and professional decisions. The course focuses on identifying uncertainty, assessing possible impact and making more considered choices without presenting risk as something that can always be eliminated.

If you are comparing this subject with other areas of study, browse the full course catalogue. Learners interested in communication, judgement and wider workplace capabilities can also explore Leadership and Soft Skills courses.

Risk assessment is a structured way to recognise what could affect an objective, consider how likely or significant an outcome may be, and decide what response is proportionate. In decision making, this means looking beyond the preferred outcome and considering uncertainty, consequences, opportunities and responsibilities before choosing a course of action.

This 25-hour course is recorded at Level 1 and has no particular entry requirements. It is designed as introductory learning rather than professional risk certification or a licence to practise. For broader study options at no course fee, see OHSC’s free online courses.

Who Is This Course For?

This introductory course may suit learners who want to improve how they think about uncertainty and consequences before making decisions. It can be relevant to students, employees, aspiring supervisors, small-business owners and anyone seeking a basic framework for considering risk in personal or professional situations. No particular entry requirements are recorded for the course.

Using Risk Assessment Responsibly

The techniques introduced in this course are educational. Real-world decisions involving health and safety, legal duties, finance, safeguarding, regulated work or other high-consequence matters may require organisation-specific procedures and advice from an appropriately qualified professional. A general course should not replace formal risk controls, statutory requirements or specialist judgement.

Start Building Better Risk Awareness

Develop a clearer understanding of how risks can be identified, evaluated and considered when choices need to be made. The course provides a beginner-level foundation for thinking more systematically about uncertainty, priorities and outcomes.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course the learner will be able to:

Explain the relationship between risk assessment and effective decision making.
Identify potential risks and evaluate their likelihood, impact, and priority using structured methods.
Apply practical risk assessment techniques to support informed decisions in uncertain situations.
Develop strategies to manage, reduce, and communicate risks effectively within different environments.
Monitor outcomes, review risk management practices, and improve future decision-making through continuous evaluation.

CERTIFICATION

Oxford Home Study Centre offers this course completely free from start to finish, giving learners the flexibility to study online at their own pace. All course materials, including interactive exercises and learning guides, are provided at no cost. Upon completing the course, learners have the option to purchase a CPD Accredited Certificate or a Quality Licence Scheme Endorsed Certificate. These certificates are entirely optional but can enhance your CV, support career development, and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. With flexible study options and optional recognition, OHSC courses provide both skill development and professional credibility.

Course Content

Topics Covered in the Course

What You Will Study

The syllabus progresses from basic risk awareness to evaluation and then to risk-based decision making in practice. The emphasis is on recognising risk, comparing likelihood and impact, prioritising concerns and reviewing outcomes. Learners who want to explore the subject in greater depth can compare the dedicated Risk Management courses.

Module 1: Introduction to Risk and Decision Making

Topics

Understanding Risk in Decision Making
Types of Risks in Professional Environments
Risk Identification Techniques
Factors That Influence Risk
Risk Awareness and Responsibility

Learning Outcomes

Understand the relationship between risk and decision making.
Identify common risks in personal and professional situations.
Develop awareness of risk-related decision factors.

Module 2: Assessing and Evaluating Risks

Topics

Risk Assessment Principles
Evaluating Likelihood and Impact
Risk Prioritisation Techniques
Balancing Risks and Opportunities
Risk Mitigation Strategies

Learning Outcomes

Assess risks using structured evaluation methods.
Prioritise risks according to potential impact.
Develop strategies to reduce or manage risks effectively.

Module 3: Risk-Based Decision Making in Practice

Topics

Making Decisions Under Uncertainty
Managing Complex Risks
Risk Communication and Reporting
Monitoring and Reviewing Risks
Learning from Risk Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Apply risk assessment techniques to decision making.
Make informed decisions in uncertain situations.
Evaluate outcomes to improve future risk management.

How It Works

Build your knowledge through clear and accessible online learning.

Complete the assignments and achieve the required marks.

Choose an optional certificate after completing the course.

Why Choose a Certificate?

An optional certificate provides a clear record of successful course completion. Add it to your learning portfolio and share it where relevant.

Completing the course and its assessments shows your commitment to developing subject knowledge through focused, independent learning.

Use your new knowledge to support further study, workplace development or personal goals. A certificate records completion but does not guarantee employment or professional status.