Qualifications Explained

Postgraduate Qualifications

This includes postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas along with Masters degrees.

Degrees

These are Higher Level qualifications offfered in a range of vocational subjects and recognised by employers to enhance career prospects.

Foundation degrees

Foundation degrees were introduced nationally in September 2001 and have proved to be a great success.

All our foundation degrees:

Are vocational courses and are highly valued in the job market.
Include work placements.
Have been developed through close collaboration with employers.
Include the Key Skills needed by graduates.
Enable you to go straight into employment or progress to an honours degree.
Can normally be completed in two years.
Provide 240 credits (360 are required for an honours degree).

Access Courses

The Access Course is a specially designed programme for mature students in preparation for further study. If you do not have any formal qualifications but would like a new career or would like to study for entry to higher or further education, this course could be for you.

NVQs

NVQs are National Vocational Qualifications for students who wish to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding needed at work. They enable students to become competent in a specific job or craft.

Introductory Certificates and Diplomas

Introductory Certificates and Diplomas are one year Level 1 qualifications which are initial steps into vocationally related education. They help encourage learners to develop personal skills and attributes in order to develop confidence to work and reach their full potential at this level.

First Diplomas

First Diplomas are a one year, Level 2 qualification for students who would like to take up a career in a broad occupational area. They are vocational courses that develop knowledge, skills and understanding for employment or progression to a National Diploma.

National Certificates/Diplomas

National Diplomas/Certificates are a two year level 3 qualification for students who wish to prepare for a career in a specific occupational area and/or progress to higher education. They have the same academic level as A Levels or AVCEs but offer more opportunities for specific hands-on, work related activity. National Diplomas are equivalent to three full A Levels and National Certificates are equivalent to two A Levels.

Key Skills

Key skills are the skills we use in all aspects of our studies, work and everyday life.