Higher education courses and qualifications

Here are some brief details on higher education courses and qualifications.

First degrees - such as Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) usually require three or four years full-time study.

The minimum entry requirements for a first degree are 2 A levels or equivalent. In reality many courses require more than the minimum; check details carefully.

Foundation degrees - these are work related courses, designed and developed directly with employers.

There are no set entry requirements; individual institutions decide their own criteria.

Higher National Diplomas (HND) - are work related courses, designed to develop skills and knowledge for higher technician level jobs.

Entry requirements are usually a National Diploma or the equivalent of one A level pass with another subject studied to A level standard.  Some courses may ask for more than the minimum; check individual details.

Page last updated: Jun 23 2008
Connexions is part of Cambridgeshire County Council