The Higher National Programme – General Information
Higher Nationals are the most widely established and recognised sub-degree courses in the UK.
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a Level 4 course, which on completion equates to a Certificate in HE. The HNC forms the first part of a HND course and counts as a 50% credit for a HND, as well as being a full qualification in its own right.
The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a Level 5 course and thus is similar to a “Foundation Degree”. The HNC comprises the first half of the HND and thus all students complete a HNC (Year 1) before progressing onto the HND (Year 2). Both years of study contain three week blocks of work experience placements that provide opportunities to further employability skills and prospects. Students are also required to complete a Work Based Experience Unit during the programme. The work experience can be either paid or voluntary.
Studying the HND requires attending College two days a week, one of which will be Friday.
What subjects are available within the Higher National Programme?
The Higher National programme is offered to all students who want to pursue a career focussed qualification which allows them to be awarded a specialist award relevant to their chosen career.
Within the Higher National Programme there are three pathways all of which are available as HNCs and HNDs:
Subjects:
- Business Management
- Animal Management
- Equine Management
Delivery Methods
We deliver our HE courses in a similar way to University. For some units you will be part of a large group of students attending lectures in our Lecture Theatre. For the more specialist units you could be in a small seminar group. You will have a tutor allocated to you and each week you will have a scheduled tutorial session. Online help and support is provided through our HE ‘Moodle’ area.
By combining large and small groups BCA students have the opportunity to study with all of the students on the programme at certain times whilst still being able to spend time with the students on their own particular pathway. This way it is easy to get to know all your BCA student colleagues quickly.
Progression
Many universities accept HND graduates onto the third year of their Undergraduate Honours programmes. Programme areas (as part of the tutorial process) will provide progression advice and guidance for those students wishing to complete a third year of undergraduate study.
Foundation Degrees – General Information
Foundation Degrees are very similar to the first two years of a full undergraduate programme but offer a more supportive learning environment (smaller group sizes, greater contact time with lecturers) and are more vocationally driven qualifications. They also provide a platform from which to ‘top up’ to a full undergraduate honours degree (offered through a number of universities nationwide).
For more information on our Foundation Degrees at BCA, follow the links below:
Sports Coaching and Performance
Children’s Development and Learning
