Qualifications

A level 2 qualification equips you with good knowledge and understanding of the subject area. In some vocational roles, a level 2 qualification qualifies you to work as an assistant, though this is something that you would need to check against the requirements of specific job roles.

Typically, you would study for one full-time academic year.

A level 3 qualification equips you with detailed knowledge and understanding of the subject. In some vocational roles, a full level 3 diploma can provide you with a licence to practice, though this would need to be checked against the requirements for specific job roles.

Typically, you would study for two full-time academic years.

A level 4 qualification, otherwise known as a Certificate of Higher Education, equips you with sound knowledge of the basic concepts of a subject. You will have learned how to take different approaches to solving problems, will be able to communicate effectively. You will have the qualities needed for employment requiring personal responsibility.

Typically, you would study for one full-time academic year, though this can vary depending on the qualification type. Usually the learning will build on attainment of a full level 3 qualification. The Certificate of Higher Education may be a first step towards obtaining higher level qualifications.

A level 5 qualification, otherwise known as a Foundation Degree or Diploma of Higher Education, will equip you with a sound understanding of the principles in your field of study, and you will have learned to apply those principles more widely. You will have the ability to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems. You will have the qualities needed for employment requiring personal responsibility and decision-making.

Typically, you would study for two full-time academic years. This may be a standalone qualification, or may form the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with honours.

A level 6 qualification, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree with honours, will equip you with an understanding of a complex body of knowledge, you will have developed analytical techniques and problem-solving skills that can be applied in many types of employment. You will be able to evaluate evidence, arguments and assumptions, to reach sound judgements and you will be able to communicate them effectively. You will have the qualities needed for employment in situations requiring the exercise of personal responsibility, and decision-making in complex and unpredictable circumstances.

Typically, you would study for three or four full-time academic years, and on successful completion would hold the title Bachelor of Arts, BA (Hons) or Bachelor of Science, BSc (Hons).

A level 7 qualification, usually know as a Master’s degree, will equip you with a solid understanding of how to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, and you will show originality in tackling and solving problems. You will have the qualities needed for employment in situations requiring sound judgement, personal responsibility and initiative in complex and unpredictable professional environments.

Typically, you would study for a least one full-time calendar year. Master’s degrees are usually taken by graduates how hold a bachelor’s degree with honours, or equivalent achievement.

A level 8 qualification, usually know as a doctoral degree, will equip you with the skills and knowledge to conceptualise, design and implement projects for the generation of significant new knowledge and/or understanding. You will have the qualities needed for employment that require both the ability to make informed judgements on complex issues in specialist fields and an innovative approach to tackling and solving problems.

Typically, you would study for the equivalent of at least three full-time calendar years, and your doctoral degree would usually be awarded through the completion of original research.