Higher Education

HE Courses

Choosing the right qualification

Higher National Certificates (HNC) are usually offered as two year part-time programmes and are primarily aimed at employed students who attend College one day a week (or two evenings).

• HNCs combine practical and academic study
• HNC covers a maximum of 10 modules
• Most students study HNCs part-time, so they can work and study.

Higher National Diplomas (HND) are normally delivered as a two year full-time course. These are often studied by school/college leavers, who have completed a National Diploma, A Levels, or other equivalent qualifications.

• HND’s are recognised nationally and are highly regarded by employers
• HNDs combine practical and academic study. They often involve work placements
• HND’s are studied either 2 years full-time or 3 years part-time.

On completion, students can go directly into employment or study a further 2 years at university to gain a degree qualification.

Foundation Degrees are vocational qualifications intended to provide students with technical and academic skills to be employed as senior technicians and associate professionals. A foundation degree is equivalent to two years full-time study or 3-4 years part-time study. All foundation degrees include work-based learning as graduates should be 'work ready'.

Honours Degrees are the traditional higher education option. Students can study a range of subjects (e.g. equine or veterinary nursing). Courses can be three years full-time or four year sandwich courses including one year spent on placement. Nearly all of the College's higher education courses provide a route to honours degree study. By studying a HND or foundation degree beforehand, students have the option to take a break or continue their studies.

DipHE is a Diploma of Higher Education, which is equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree. This qualification is ideal for someone who is unsure of the commitment of three years study or who prefers to study at a college for the first part of their degree and complete their final year at university.