BTEC Higher Nationals

Achieve Higher with BTEC Higher Nationals

BTEC Higher National (HN) qualifications include Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), and are equivalent to the first two years of a UK undergraduate degree. You also have the option to gain a degree if you top up your 3rd year at any of the 300+ Higher Education Institutions around the world that recognise BTEC Higher National qualifications.

Many students decide to take this route, because they can save money, stay local, develop skills that employers are ultimately looking for, and have the flexibility to top up to a degree.

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Recognised by employers and professional bodies

Entering Higher Education with the confidence that your knowledge, experience, and worth is valued by future employers is something that studying a BTEC Higher National can ensure. The robust and industry-relevant content within BTEC Higher National qualifications can give you further reassurance that employers in your chosen sector will recognise your achievements and the hands-on experience completed throughout your course. Whether you’re looking to enter the workplace for the first time, move into a different field, or progress within your current role, BTEC Higher Nationals are recognised as the principal vocational qualification at Levels 4 and 5.

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Study locally

If you’re looking to save costs by staying local, and also spend less on your course, a BTEC Higher National qualification could be the right route for you. Compared to university, BTEC Higher National qualifications are delivered at FE Colleges, Private Colleges and Training providers across the UK.

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Progression opportunities

After studying a BTEC Higher National, you'll be equipped with the academic knowledge and career focused experience to enter the workforce, gain professional body accreditation, or top-up to gain a degree. Should you choose to top-up and gain a degree, you can use the Degree Finder tool to browse through 300+ universities across the globe that recognise BTEC Higher National qualifications. Browse the Degree Finder.

If you want to explore more, download our student guide, which will give you more information about where a BTEC Higher National can take you.

Download the guide

Other helpful information

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Clearing

Clearing takes place each year between July and September/October and allows students who are still considering their options the chance to apply for a Higher Education place at college or university. This can be as a result of missing conditional offers, or having a last minute change of heart about an institution or course.

Even though most courses begin in September, BTEC Higher Nationals are often delivered in institutions that accept applications throughout the year. Contact your local college(s) or research local Higher National providers using the UCAS Clearing search tool

Watch this video to find out more about Higher Nationals

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Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in England

Higher Technical Qualifications, or HTQs, are technical qualifications available for students in England at higher education level. Currently, we offer over 35 HTQs across 6 sectors, including: Digital Technologies, Construction, Healthcare, Sport, Engineering and Business.

It is important to note that BTEC Higher Nationals still exist as a distinct qualification type. The HTQ quality mark that they receive when approved as HTQs shows that they are considered high quality technical education, developed with employers and aligned to Occupational Standards.

Watch this video to find out more about HTQs

BTEC HNCs and HNDs are practical qualifications equivalent to the first 2 years of an undergrad degree, and developed with employers to give you a clear pathway to employment.