Are you thinking of going to university but want to study in an environment where you’ll receive individual attention and support?
Perhaps you’re worried you may not achieve the grades you were hoping for and want to know what options are still available.
If you answered yes to any of these questions then a Higher Education (HE) course at South Birmingham College could be just what you’re looking for.
For those ready to enter Higher Education, the college offers courses including:
Higher National Diplomas (HNDs),
Higher National Certificates (HNCs),
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs),
Foundation Degrees and BA (Hons) degrees.
Let South Birmingham College take your education to new heights The College is partnered with Birmingham City University and the University of Wolverhampton. Students studying at the college will also be recognised as students of those Universities and are provided with degree progression routes and access to all their facilities.
Higher National Diplomas, Foundation Degrees and NVQs offer an alternative route into higher education rather than going straight from A Levels to University. The benefits of studying one of these qualifications are:
Studying locally in familiar surroundings
Smaller group sizes – no large formal lectures
Comprehensive individual support
Employer-recognised work-related qualifications
Clear progression onto the second or final year of a degree (Hons) programme
For many programmes lower fees than studying at university
Lower entrance requirements than degree programmes
What are Higher National Diplomas?
A BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) is a Level 5 specialist vocational programme with a strong work related emphasis and is usually studied over 2 years full time or 3 years part time. Nationally recognised by employers, the qualification provides a thorough grounding in the theory and practical skills required to work in particular sectors, making progression directly into employment or to the second or final year of degree programmes simple.
What are Higher National Certificates?
A BTEC Higher National Certificate is similar to a Higher National Diploma, but is designed for people who wish to study on a part time basis, usually one day or two evenings per week. Students normally complete the course in two years, and may wish to spend a further year to ‘top –up’ to a full Higher National Diploma.
What are Foundation Degrees?
Foundation Degrees are courses that are designed and delivered in partnership with employers to equip people with the relevant knowledge and skills required in the workplace. The courses are designed to develop the knowledge and skills that employers want and provide practical workplace learning and experience.
What are NVQs?
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are work-related, competence-based qualifications, and are based on national occupational standards. These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do.
NVQs are designed for you to be able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively, and show that you are competent in the area of work the NVQ represents. At level 4 or above they are equivalent to university level qualifications, but designed specifically for people who have access to a working environment either paid or unpaid. NVQs are normally studied on a part time basis.
