Amazing degrees and qualifications results in more detail – part 1
First and foremost, with so many CVs landing on your desks. All the degrees and qualifications that the amazing students say they have. Without a doubt it can become overwhelming. Obviously, We thought we could help by breaking down each type of degree and qualifications you are likely to see.
Post grad degrees Level 7 or 8
Postgrad Degrees are more self-driven and research intensive. This degree is more about specialising within a particular area of that subject.
Firstly, terms like Undergrad mean people who have not graduated yet. Secondly, Post grad is someone who has graduated with a degree from university. That is now taking on further education such as a masters etc.
We want to cover the different types of Undergrad degrees. These are typically the next level of an academic qualification following secondary school. These tend to be the first degree studied at university or another higher education provider.
There are different undergraduate courses students can study. We have broken each of them down, along with the time it takes to complete.
Bachelor’s Degrees
A Bachelor’s degree involves studying one or sometimes two subjects in detail. This is the most common undergraduate degree in the UK. It is a level 6 qualification. Choosing one subject is known as a single honour’s degree. The undergrad could also have the option to study a minor subject alongside the major subject for a portion of their degree. This is known as a major/minor honours degree.
Subsequently, studying two or three major subjects as part of a Bachelor’s degree is called a combination or joint honours degree. With this degree type the undergrad picks several modules per subject, rather than doing every module for each subject. Each subject will hold equal weight to the final degree grade.
How long does it take to study?
It typically takes three years if the undergrad is studying full time. Furthermore some courses, such as those with a year abroad or a placement can take up to four years. Additionally, if someone has taken 4 years full time to study a degree and not had a year abroad or placement year. It could mean they have needed to re-sit a year due to failing one of more modules. Subsequently, this is something you would need to discuss at the interview.
Intercalated or integrated degrees
Some courses can offer the option of a break in the main undergraduate programme. Allowing them to study a separate qualification. This is an intercalated degree. This is a great option for undergrads if they are studying medicine or dentistry. It means they can finish their studies having two degrees.
An integrated masters course incorporates a masters level qualification into the undergraduate programme. Courses are usually four years long with the final year of study at postgraduate level.
Foundation year/foundation diploma
A foundation diploma/foundation year is an introductory course. These are designed to bridge the gap between finishing school and starting a bachelors degree. This is a one-year qualification. Aimed at students who do not meet the entry requirement for a Bachelor’s degree. It is offered by most universities or further education colleges.
Foundation Degrees.
A foundation degree is different from a foundation year/foundation diploma. It’s a level 5 qualification that has an emphasis on practice-based learning. They are equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. They usually involve a mix of academic study and workplace experience. Students either go straight to work after a foundation degree or move in to the final year of a bachelors.
How long does it take to study?
This will take the student two years if they are studying full time or three-four years part time.
Top up Degrees
For students who have completed a level 5 qualification. They can choose a TOP up degree to additionally upgrade their qualification to a full bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to study?
This will take a year if studying full time. 18 months for part time.
High National Certificate
This is a one-year undergraduate and is equivalent to the first year of university. It is a level 4 practice-based qualification. Studied by those wanting to either train for a specific career or move into the second year of a bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to study?
HNCs take one year to complete when studying full-time and two years if studying part time.
Higher National Diploma
This is similar to a HNC, it is a two-year level 5 qualification. Equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. This vocational qualification is designed for those wishing to learn skills in a practical area. Additionally to enter the third year of a bachelor’s degree upon completion.
How long does it take to study?
HNDs take two years for full-time students. Subsequently anywhere between three and four years for part time study.
Certificate of Higher Education
This is a level 4 vocational qualification. Its ideal for those unable to commit to a full three-year degree. It is equivalent to both an HNC and the first year of bachelor’s degree. Its often used by students to progress into further study. This tends to be more academic than practice based.
How long does it take to study?
One year if studying full time and two years if part time.
Diploma of Higher Education
This is a Level 5 qualification holding the same weight as a HND or two years of a bachelor’s degree. The focus will be on academic study. Completing a DipHE will allow students to move onto the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to study?
Two years full time and part time taking longer.
Certificate of Continuing Education (CertCE)
Last but not least, a CertCE qualification is for those after a taste of higher education. It equates to 60 undergraduate degree credits at level 4 or 5. This can lead into a full undergraduate degree.
How long does it take to study?
Half a year of study full time
If you require any help with your recruitment for Graduates, please do contact us and one of the team will assist. Additionally, connect with us on LinkedIn.
