HE Guide 2027-2028 - Flipbook - Page 4
QUALIFICATIONS
Whether you’re returning to your studies, progressing to the next stage of
your learning journey, or looking to upskill in your current role, it helps to
understand how programme levels compare. This guide shows you what
each level is equal to, making your next steps easier to navigate.
LEVEL
4
QUALIFICATION
7
Masters Degree
Equivalent to postgraduate university study
Postgraduate Certificate
Equivalent to postgraduate university study
6
Top-Up Degree
Equivalent to the final year of university study
Bachelor of Arts (BA) /
Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours Degree
Three-year undergraduate programmes
5
Foundation Degree (FD)
Equivalent to the first two years of university study
Higher National Diploma (HND)
Equivalent to the first two years of university study
4
Higher National Certificate (HNC)
Equivalent to the first year of university study
3
Access to Higher Education
A full level 3 qualification which usually attracts
UCAS points for progression onwards to Higher
Education/university-level study
