Frequently Asked Questions
1. What qualifications do I need to be accepted onto a BTEC Higher National course?
2. What is the difference between a Higher National Certificate and Diploma?
3. Is Diploma better than Certificate?
4. Do HND students go on work placements as an element of their course?
5. What subjects can be studied?
6. Where can I study for a Higher National?
7. How long does it take to complete a Higher National?
8. What does a Higher National compare with?
| Question: | What qualifications do I need to be accepted onto a BTEC Higher National course? |
| Answer: | There are no formal entry requirements but if you have any of the following you are likely to be at the right academic level:
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| Question: | What is the difference between a Higher National Certificate and Diploma? |
| Answer: | The BTEC Higher National Diploma provides greater depth and specialisation than the BTEC Higher National Certificate qualifications..Some Diploma subjects can be taken as sandwich courses. The HNC mainly attracts part-time learners studying over two years. In some sectors there are opportunities for those wishing to complete an intensive programme of study in a shorter period of time. Speak to your chosen college or university for full details on course structure. |
| Question: | Is Diploma better than Certificate? |
| Answer: | No. Students attain the same level and both qualifications require similar levels of commitment although Diplomas are broader. It is recognised that Certificate students – through work experience – gain part of their knowledge in the workplace. As such, the BTEC HND provides greater depth in study and specialisation than the BTEC Higher National Certificate qualifications. |
| Question: | Do HND students go on work placements as an element of their course? |
| Answer: | Yes. Most HND courses include work placements or aspects of work experience. As such, all students develop an understanding of workplace issues. |
| Question: | What subjects can be studied? |
| Answer: | Higher Nationals have been designed for almost all industries. To learn about the most popular courses, visit our most popular courses. |
| Question: | Where can I study for a Higher National? |
| Answer: | Higher National courses are run by further and higher education colleges and universities. Contact your nearest college or university in your area, or find colleges in your area offering the subject you’re interested in. They are also offered in many countries worldwide. |
| Question: | How long does it take to complete a Higher National? |
| Answer: | Most students complete their HND course in two years full-time, or three years part-time. The HNC mainly attracts part-time learners studying over two years. |
| Question: | What does a Higher National compare with? |
| Answer: | Within the National Qualification Framework Higher Nationals are at level 4 (a degree is level 5). However, the greatest value of a Higher National is in the high respect it commands from employers in the UK and overseas. But if you want to carry on studying after your Higher National, you can. Many of our students decide to do just that, and with a BTEC Higher National you can often go straight into the second or even third year of a related degree. |
Email us a question, open mail to highernationals@edexcel.org.uk.
