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Higher education qualifications, explained

Choosing a higher education course can feel confusing. With so many qualification types, levels and study options, it is not always clear which route is right for you. This guide explains the main qualifications in plain terms: what each one involves, who it is for, and where it can take you next.

Aligned with the qualification levels used across higher education in England
Explore the levels See example routes
Start here

You do not need to know the jargon before you begin

Qualification names like HNC, HND and CertHE can be off-putting. They simply describe different points on the same journey, and you can join at the point that fits where you are now

  • Every qualification sits on a level, from Level 3 through to Level 7
  • Most build on the one before, so you can step up at your own pace
  • You can stop to work, keep studying, or return later as life allows

Not sure where you fit? Use the levels ladder below to see how qualifications stack up, then open any qualification to read what it means and where it leads.

Group of students sat working together
The levels ladder

Every qualification sits on a level

Higher education is organised into levels. The higher the level, the more advanced the study. Select any qualification to jump to its full explanation below.

Level 3

Preparing for university-level study

Access to HE Diploma
Level 4

Equivalent to the first year of a degree

HNC CertHE HTQ Higher Apprenticeship
Level 5

Equivalent to the first two years of a degree

HND Foundation Degree HTQ Higher Apprenticeship
Level 6

Full bachelor's degree level

Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's Top-Up Degree Apprenticeship
Level 7

Postgraduate study, after a bachelor's degree

Master's Degree

Flexible options such as Professional Qualifications and Modular study sit across several levels rather than on a single rung. You will find them with the qualifications below.

Qualifications in detail

What each qualification means

Filter by level, or browse the full list. Each card shows the level, how long it usually takes, and where it can lead.

Level 3

Access to Higher Education Diploma

Designed for adults who want to progress to university but may not have traditional qualifications such as A Levels. It builds the knowledge and study skills needed for higher education.

Leads to University-level study (Level 4 and above)
Level 4

Higher National Certificate (HNC)

  • 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time
  • Equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's

Combines academic study with practical skills.

Leads to A Higher National Diploma (HND)
Level 4

Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)

  • Equivalent to the first year of a degree

Gives a strong foundation in your chosen subject.

Leads to Further study
Level 4 or 5

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)

  • Quality-marked
  • Developed with employers

A technical qualification focused on the skills and knowledge that specific industries and occupations need.

Leads to A Foundation Degree or employment
Level 4 or 5

Higher Apprenticeship

  • Work-based
  • Earn while you learn

You spend most of your time in employment while studying towards a higher-level qualification.

Leads to A higher-level qualification and, with a top-up, a full degree
Level 5

Higher National Diploma (HND)

  • Builds on an HNC
  • Equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's

Combines practical learning with academic study.

Leads to Employment, or a Bachelor's Degree Top-Up
Level 5

Foundation Degree

  • Often developed with employers

Combines academic learning with workplace skills, and can be topped up to a full bachelor's degree.

Leads to A Bachelor's Degree Top-Up
Level 6

Bachelor's Degree

  • Usually 3 years full-time

Provides in-depth knowledge of a subject and is one of the most widely recognised higher education qualifications.

Leads to A Master's Degree
Level 6

Bachelor's Degree Top-Up

  • Typically 1 year full-time
  • For Foundation Degree or HND holders

Builds on a qualification you already hold and leads to a full bachelor's degree with honours.

Leads to A Master's Degree
Level 6

Degree Apprenticeship

  • University study with paid employment

You gain a full degree while developing professional experience and earning a salary.

Leads to A full honours degree and a career
Level 7

Master's Degree

  • Postgraduate
  • After a bachelor's degree

Develops specialist knowledge, advanced skills and expertise in a particular subject area.

Flexible

Professional Qualification

  • Range of levels
  • Often awarded by professional bodies

Prepares you for specific careers or professional registration, and is valued by employers in sectors such as accounting, management, counselling, engineering and health.

Flexible

Modular Provision

  • Flexible study
  • Individual modules or short courses

Take individual modules rather than committing to a full qualification straight away. Modules can be combined over time to build towards a larger qualification.

Example routes

Four ways through higher education

There is no single route. Each example below gives you recognised qualifications at every stage, so you can step into work, keep studying, or pause and return when the time is right.

Best for: Adult learners returning to study, or anyone who prefers a gradual, step-by-step route and may not yet meet the direct entry requirements for a bachelor's degree.

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma
Level 4 Certificate of HE
Level 5 Foundation Degree
Level 6 Bachelor's Top-Up
Level 7 Master's Degree