Guide to HE Qualifications

We offer a variety of qualifications aimed at getting you into the career of your choice or progressing you once you’re there. The qualifications are explained below and the table at the bottom of the page details the courses available at each Higher Education level and the typical entry requirements.

Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Diplomas (HNDs)

 HNCs and HNDs are work-related (vocational) qualifications which focus on applying learning to practice and can lead into a new career or help you progress in your current line of work. HNCs and HNDs are designed to give you the skills to put knowledge and theory to effective use in a particular field of work. They are highly valued by employers both in the UK and overseas.

Honours (BA/BSc) Degrees

Honours degrees are qualifications that help you develop a thorough academic understanding of a subject. They help you develop your analytical, intellectual and research skills. Most graduates move into a job or profession, or go on to a postgraduate course, such as a diploma or masters degree.

Foundation Degrees

Foundation degrees are designed and delivered in partnership with employers to equip people with the relevant knowledge and skills through a mixture of college attendance and work-based learning. The study methods can be very flexible, which means that they are available to people already in work, those wishing to embark on a career change and to those who have recently completed level 3 qualifications (e.g. A Levels, National Diplomas, Advanced Apprenticeships or an NVQ at Level 3). They are broadly equivalent to the first two years of an Honours degree and progression routes are available to top-up a foundation degree to an Honours Degree.

The chart below is a general guide to the courses available at each Higher Education level as well as the typical entry requirements.