Free Operations Management Course - 20-Hour Short Course

Build an introductory understanding of business operations with this free online course from Oxford Home Study Centre. The programme considers how organisational activities, financial information, reporting and people-related decisions contribute to day-to-day operations.

The course is listed at Level 1, is delivered online and involves approximately 20 hours of study. Enrolment is ongoing and there are no formal entry requirements. Learners interested in longer programmes can compare OHSC's online management courses.

What Does This Operations Management Course Cover?

The syllabus begins with the nature and types of operations before moving into practical application. It then introduces financial terminology, generally accepted accounting principles and key reports. The final topic considers workforce planning and the importance of placing suitable people in appropriate roles.

What Can You Learn?

The basic purpose and scope of operations management
How operational requirements can differ between organisations
How financial terminology and reports support operational understanding
The introductory purpose of generally accepted accounting principles
Why recruitment, retention and succession planning matter to operations

Who Is This Course Suitable For?

Beginners exploring operations management for the first time
Employees who want to understand how business operations are organised
Supervisors and team leaders interested in operational processes and reporting
Small-business owners seeking introductory knowledge of resource coordination
Learners considering a longer management or operations programme

Progressing Beyond the Short Course

Learners seeking more extensive study can compare the Operations Management Certificate QLS Level 3 with the Advanced Diploma in Operations Management QLS Level 5. These are separate programmes with different levels, study commitments and certification arrangements.

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

Discuss techniques for setting up an effective and efficient system for hiring, retaining, and succession planning
Explain how to apply financial and accounting terms correctly.

Course access, study materials and required assessments are provided free of charge. Certification is optional and is available for a separate fee after successful completion. Learners can choose between:

A CPD Accredited Certificate, issued by the CPD Standards Office
A QLS Endorsed Certificate, issued by the Quality Licence Scheme

QLS certificate fees vary by course level and certificate format, while the CPD Standards Office certificate has its own price. Delivery choices may also affect the total cost. Review the current certificate prices and ordering information before purchasing.

These certificates record completion of this introductory course. They are not Ofqual-regulated management qualifications, professional licences or guarantees of employment or promotion. Learners can compare other management subjects available for free study.

COURSE CONTENT

Topics Covered in the Course

Introduction to Operations Management

Explore the purpose of operations management and how organisations coordinate activities, resources and processes to deliver products or services.

Types of Operations

Consider how operational requirements differ between organisations and how the nature, scale and output of an operation influence its management.

Practical Application

Connect introductory operations concepts with workplace situations, focusing on how processes and resources are organised to support consistent activity.

Understanding Financial Terms

Develop familiarity with commonly used financial and accounting language so that operational information can be interpreted and discussed more accurately.

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)

Gain an introductory awareness of the principles and conventions used in financial reporting, without treating the topic as professional accountancy training.

Key Reports

Consider the role of reports in monitoring activity, communicating information and supporting operational decisions.

Getting the Right People in Place

Explore how recruitment, retention and succession planning can help an organisation maintain the people and capabilities required for its operations.

HOW IT WORKS

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WHY GET CERTIFIED

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Earning a certification showcases your advanced skills and commitment to professional growth. This significantly increases your chances of getting hired.

Expanding your knowledge and skills is essential for landing a job, advancing to higher positions, and exploring new career paths.