HNC/HND

HN means Higher National. Higher National courses combine academic theory and practical experience, and are offered in a wide range of subjects from engineering, computing and construction to the built environment, leisure and tourism, business and IT. Usually, work placements or work-related experience is involved.

HNDs take two years of full time study to complete or three years if the sandwich option is taken. HNCs are the part-time equivalent of the HND.

In addition to being a valuable qualification in its own right an HND can also qualify you for entry onto the second or third year of a related degree course. An HND is often a pathway to a degree and many students progress to the final year of a degree course.