Types of Qualifications

BACHELOR’S DEGREE

The most recognised and widely available undergraduate qualification, common denominations are BA (Bachelor of Arts), BSc (Bachelor of Science) and BEng (Bachelor of Engineering). A full-time degree normally takes three years to complete and often includes a work placement.

FOUNDATION DEGREE

A Foundation degree is a higher education qualification that includes work-based and placement learning, developed with employers to provide industry experience. It typically takes two years (full-time) to complete, and successful graduates may progress to a full Honours degree with an additional year of study at Level 6.

LEVEL 6 TOP-UPS

Most of our Foundation degrees have Level 6 Top-ups available at the same college, so you can achieve a full Honours degree and have gained valuable work experience at the end of your studies.

INTEGRATED FOUNDATION YEAR

These are designed to prepare you for entry to your chosen degree, resulting in a four-year course leading to a Bachelor’s degree. This type of qualification is suitable for learners who might not have the grades for direct entry onto a degree or who are looking to change career.

HND / HNC

These are ‘Higher National’ qualifications with a technical and professional focus. A HNC is completed at Level 4 and HND at Level 5. They are often studied by learners already employed in practical industries and professions.

ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION (HE)

These one-year full-time courses prepare learners to study for a degree if they don’t have the Level 3 qualifications required for direct entry. They are accepted by many universities as an alternative to A Levels or technical qualifications, that mature learners (aged 19 or over) may gain.