Further educuation qualifications

If you’re planning to study an academic subject to higher education level, you might consider academic qualifications such as:

• A-levels and AS-levels: These are available in a broad range of subjects and are the most popular route into higher education in the UK. Most students study three or four subjects, but you can study more or fewer than this. A-levels and AS-levels can stand alone. In some institutions they can also be awarded in combination with other qualifications such as International Baccalaureate certificates or vocational qualifications.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme: This programme is an alternative to A-levels and provides qualifications in six or seven subjects. IB students can select subjects so that they specialise in a particular academic field, but mathematics, native language and theory of knowledge are mandatory subjects. The IB is currently available in around 150 state and private institutions in the UK.
• Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers: These are available in a range of subjects and are offered by further and higher education colleges in Scotland. Advanced Higher qualifications are equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree. Students with these qualifications can enter higher education in the second year of a bachelor degree instead of the first.  These qualifications are usually taken over two years by students aged 16–19 but they can be taken at any age.  
• Vocational or professional qualifications: If you want to build expertise and up-to-date skills to help develop your career in a specific industry, you might choose a vocational or professional qualification. These can also prepare you to study an industry-based subject through to higher education.  Vocational and professional qualifications are offered at many levels. They combine classroom-based learning and independent study with practical training.
• The Diploma: The Diploma is available across all industry sectors and is the most popular choice for students without industry experience who want to gain a professional qualification. A Diploma is an intermediate qualification, equivalent to an A-level, and can provide a route into higher education or employment.  If you study for a Diploma, you will have a mix of classroom-based practical learning and theory. A Diploma can be taken full- or part-time by people of all ages.
• National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs): If you have some experience in the workplace, NVQs and SVQs demonstrate that you have the knowledge and practical ability to carry out your job to the required standard. The amount of time it takes to study for these qualifications is flexible, and usually depends on your level of experience. They can be studied on a full- or part-time basis and are available for people of all ages.

Work experience

Many of these courses include a work placement – a period of time spent gaining experience in a real workplace. The aim is to introduce you to the world of work and give you valuable experience in your chosen profession.

The academic year

At most institutions in the UK, the academic year starts in September or October and runs until June or July. Many courses, however, are more flexible and offer a range of start dates.

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