Education options have never been broader than they are now, with a host of qualifications available for people who want to further their education while also preparing for the workplace. No longer are traditional university degrees the be-all and end-all of your job prospects, you can also take up more hands-on studies that will give you catered skills for your chosen career path.
That is where qualifications like Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas come into play — two separate vocational qualifications that teach invaluable skills, enhance your portfolio and prepare you for working life.
HNCs and HNDs are two of the many qualifications you can earn through education partners at the Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology, as well as apprenticeship opportunities courtesy of our employer partners.
What is an HNC?
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a vocational qualification designed to prepare students for employment. As a level 4 qualification, it is the equivalent of the first year of a university degree, and can take a year if completed full-time, or two years if done part-time.
HNCs focus on more foundational and broad knowledge of a subject, allowing people to seamlessly transition into higher levels of education. Taking on a HNC course opens doors for people who may initially require a shorter programme before later choosing to progress their studies beyond a Higher National Certificate.
What is an HND?
A Higher National Diploma (HND) is also a vocational qualification situated at level 5 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework, a stage up from a HNC. Studying for a HND will last two years full-time and four years part-time, and the reward is a qualification that is equivalent to two-thirds of a university degree.
HNDs offer more specialised and in-depth training and lessons for people looking to take their knowledge further. While HNCs provide you with the necessary skills for something more entry-level, HNDs offer people a chance to learn what it takes to handle more responsibilities in the workplace, and can serve as a pathway towards career progression into management positions.
What are the benefits?
Both HNCs and HNDs were designed to offer practical-based solutions to workforce shortages in key areas, providing more active learning opportunities than traditional, conventional routes of university education. It sets young people up for employment with specific industry-related skills taking centre stage, and they can even set you up for a full bachelor’s degree in the future, if you wish.
Both qualifications are seen as being very valuable in the job market, particularly in areas of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), where skills shortages are apparent.
The Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology works directly with employers and education partners to offer a range of exciting options for people interested in pursuing these qualifications. It is part of a wide network of Institutes of Technology, all pulling together to boost the workforce with ready-made individuals who have taken the time to learn the practical skills required for key STEM industries and beyond.
For more information on the Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology, get in touch and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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