Qualifications
Reid Kerr College is approved by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to deliver a range of academic and vocational qualifications, including Higher National Diplomas (HNDs); Higher National Certificates (HNCs); National Certificates (NCs); Professional Development Awards (PDAs); Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs); Scottish Group Awards (SGAs) and National Qualifications at Access, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher and Advanced Higher.
The College also offers a further range of programmes certificated by City & Guilds, NEBOSH, Chartered Management Institute, Chartered Institute of Marketing and a range of other professional bodies.
Which Qualification Is Right For You?
National Qualifications: National Qualifications provide a broad range of options for progression beyond Standard Grade and are available at five levels:
Access
Intermediate 1
Intermediate 2
Higher
Advanced Higher
These qualifications normally consist of three units, plus and external assessment. Each unit counts as a qualification in its own right (a National Unit), so even if you don't sit or pass the external assessment you still get credit for the units you have successfully achieved.
National Certificate (NC): These courses are appropriate for those with little or no prior knowledge of a specialist subject. It is particularly suitable for learners with few or no formal qualifications or for those returning to education after a break of some years. It is a full-time course of either six months (January Fast Track) or 1 year duration, it may also be possible to study on a part-time basis.
Higher National Certificate (HNC): This is an advanced course with subjects studied in greater depth than at NQ/NC level. Generally younger students would be expected to posses one or two highers or appropriate NC for entry. Mature students without these qualifications may gain direct entry with appropriate work or life experience. Check course details for entry requirements. HNC's are offered on a full-time, part-time or distance learning basis. Full time courses are of a year's duration or six months (Fast Track). Successful completion of an HNC can lead to progression to the 2nd year of relevant HND or direct entry into many degree courses at either 1st or 2nd year level.
Higher National Diploma (HND): This is a two year advanced course normally on a full-time basis, although some are available by part-time study. This course allows students to study a wider variety of subjects than HNC. Entry requirements for an HND are similar to that for an HNC. Successful completion provides wider access to the jobs market and can lead to direct entry into 2nd and sometimes 3rd year of particular degree courses. There are direct articulation routes from HNC to HND.
Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ): SVQs are work-based qualifications designed to equip students with skills directly related to their job. They are designed by industry for industry and are available at a variety of levels to encourage continual learning progression.
Entry qualifications are for guidance only. If you are interested, but unsure of which course of study may be best for you, please apply and we will provide expert advice and guidance. Please do not hesitate to contact our Admissions Unit on 0800 052 7343.