Comparing all the available courses might make joining or reentering higher education a difficult and occasionally intimidating process. The next academic level up from A-levels is believed to be a bachelor’s degree.
There are several options, ranging from HNDs and CertCEs to foundational and bachelor’s degrees, but it’s crucial to examine the various programmes to determine which one is ideal for you. An HND and a foundation degree are two credentials you might be thinking about, both of which count towards a bachelor’s degree. To learn everything you need to know about these two degrees, read this blog in addition to UCAS, student chat rooms, and even university open houses.
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What is an HND?
A higher education credential offered by institutes of higher learning is the Higher National Diploma (HND). It comprises of a number of work-related courses that emphasise “learning by doing” and are meant to equip you with certain job abilities. Whether you choose to study for the qualification full-time, which would take two years, or part-time, which would take three to four years, will determine how long it will take you to complete it. HNDs are available in a variety of fields, however they are primarily offered for more practical professions like engineering or healthcare.
What is a foundation degree?
A foundation degree is a different credential that you might think about pursuing. It is offered by universities and institutions all around the UK. A foundation degree is a degree-level credential that combines academic coursework with practical experience.
Several businesses provide foundation degree programmes in addition to those that are provided at colleges and universities, and they will assist their staff members while they complete the programme.Â
The primary goal of this kind of certificate is to equip students with the knowledge necessary to succeed academically while simultaneously preparing them for a certain career. The curriculum lasts two or three years depending on whether you choose to study the course full- or part-time.
HNDs are offered in a variety of subject areas, including:
- Agriculture
- Computing and IT
- Drama
- Engineering
- Health Care
- Business and management
- Social Care
- Sports Science
- Retail and Distribution
- Hospitality Management
Gaining an HND is advantageous since the courses are vocationally focused and help you develop transferable work skills needed in your chosen industry. In essence, because an HND gives you “hands-on” expertise in these more practical subject areas, the degree is easily recognised by businesses and can thus help you get a job. HNDs, on the other hand, are frequently utilised as a stepping stone to a full degree because they are typically thought of as being similar to the second year of college.
You have the option of transferring to the first, second, or even third year of a degree programme, depending on how well the bachelor’s course aligns with your HND subject. You will need at least one or two A-levels to enrol in one of these courses.
HNDs are mostly taught in a classroom setting, and instead of traditional exams, you are typically evaluated through projects, presentations, and more practical assignments. Depending on the subject of your education, you could occasionally be required to perform work placements.
There are numerous “profession-based” foundation degree subjects available, such as:
- Animal science
- Art and Design
- Business
- Computing
- Counselling Services
- Finance and Management
- Hospitality
- Humanities
- Law
- Medicine
- Media
- Science and Pharmacy
The value of a foundation degree is equivalent to that of two-thirds of a bachelor’s degree. As a result, you have the option to “top-up” your qualification to a full undergraduate degree once you have finished the course. On the other hand, a foundation degree is a solid basis for joining the workforce right away because these courses concentrate on developing career-specific abilities that companies are seeking for.Â
They are perfect for anyone looking to formalise their knowledge of the workplace or start a new career. There are no established entry requirements for foundation degrees, in contrast to full degrees or HNDs. In contrast, professional or industry experience is occasionally thought to be more pertinent for this degree.
What to expect studying for a HND?
A HND is a career-focused course of study. Many real-world assignments and projects are to be expect. For instance, if you are pursuing an HND in business management, your professors could anticipate that you will create presentations. This may entail participating in role-playing exercises, collaborating with other business students in groups, or even taking on an internship as part of your study.
Lessons are not frequently attending by HND candidates. A HND can typically be studies online through remote learning.
Wrap UP
You should think about earning an HND or a foundation degree if you want to continue your study and move on to higher education. While both will give you the necessary skills for your chosen profession, it’s crucial to take into account the distinctions between these credentials. This is to make sure you make the selection that best meets your needs because it is a significant choice that will affect your future. Business management, hospitality management, and health and social care management are all offered as HND courses at St. Patrick’s.
