Pearson BTEC Higher National (HN) qualifications are widely supported by higher education and industry as the principal vocational undergraduate qualifications at Levels 4 and 5.
The BTEC Higher National qualifications were developed using a wide range of students, employers, higher education providers, colleges and subject experts to make sure the qualifications met their needs and expectations.
We offer a growing number of HNCs which are practical and technical qualifications equivalent to the first year of an honours degree. All higher nationals provide specialist knowledge and skills-based experience. HNCs form the first year of our higher national qualifications and are offered on a full-time and part-time basis, allowing you to work in your chosen industry whilst gaining a qualification. HNDs are technical and skills-based qualifications, designed for specific types of careers. They are the equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree and are designed to help you progress into employment. All HNC/D qualifications are awarded by Pearson Edexcel. Over two years of Higher National study at Northampton College, you will achieve a full HND and it will cost less than going straight to university. In many cases you can progress to one of many universities across the country to top up your HND into a degree with one or two further years of study (depending on the type of degree). So, in three years, you could achieve three qualifications: an HNC, HND and a degree for less than the cost of one traditional university-delivered degree. If you are planning to start a full-time or part-time University Level course, you will be able to apply for a student loan from the beginning of the academic year in which your course starts. For more information go to www.slc.co.uk If you’re employed and want to gain a University Level qualification while you work, we offer opportunities for you to progress your career. Higher Apprenticeships combine learning in the workplace with ‘off the job’ training at college. For more information, please contact 01604 734323.
These qualifications were developed closely with professional organisations to make sure the qualifications were in line with recognised professional standards.
