Types of Courses

Higher Education isn't just about Degrees - there's a whole range of different types of courses to choose from.

Access CoursesIf you want to move on to an undergraduate qualification but do not have the appropriate entry qualification, an Access course is the answer. An Access course is a one-year full-time programme which is nationally approved. Access courses are for mature students (over 18 years of age) and come in a range of subjects including arts, sciences, social sciences and medicine. They normally act as entry onto the first year of an Honours degree or HND/Foundation degree programme.

Extended DegreesIf you want to take a technical or science-based honours degree but haven't got a technical or science background, you could opt for one of these extended four-year programmes. The first year of the course gives the basic principles you'll need to underpin the remaining years of the degree. This year is an integral part of the programme and successful completion will lead to progression to the next level through to an Honours degree.

Top-Up CoursesA top up is usually a one-year course designed to convert your existing HND or Foundation degree into a Bachelors degree.

Higher National Certificates and DiplomasAn HNC is a one-year course with part-time options available in many subject areas. The HND is a full-time two-year course, which can link into the second or third year of an Honours degree, or lead to employment in the chosen area of study. Work experience is usually an essential part of the course. In some cases, existing HNC/D programmes are being replaced by Foundation Degrees, so do check with the Learning Shop and your chosen college or university for the latest course details.

Foundation Degrees (FdA & FdSc)These are new, exciting higher education qualifications that will give you the skills, knowledge and practical experience you need to succeed in a vocational area. They involve two years of study plus relevant work experience. This degree can also link into the final stage of a university Honours programme. Foundation degrees have flexible entry requirements and many offer a part-time study option.

Honours Degrees(BA/BSc/BEng/LLB)These usually involve a full-time course of study for three or four years (some degrees include a year for work experience and/or study abroad; teaching degrees with qualified teacher status are four years). Degrees in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry and Architecture take five to seven years.

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