HNDs & Foundation Degrees
REAL experience, REAL prospects
Higher National Certificates, Higher National Diplomas & Foundation Degrees in conjunction with The University of Northampton.
Have you always wanted to progress to Higher Education?
Would you like the option of going to University?
Are you looking for a course that will kick-start your career?
Do you prefer more practically-based learning?
Would you like a flexible approach that fits in with your lifestyle?
If so, you should consider taking a Higher National Certificate, Higher National Diploma or Foundation Degree.
Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)
Whereas traditional degrees tend to concentrate on gaining knowledge, HNDs focus on practical ‘learning by doing’
experience, giving you the skills to put your knowledge to effective use in a particular job. Highly recognised and valued by industry both in the UK and overseas, HNDs are mainly assessed through assignments, projects and practical tasks, which means they’re well suited to those who don’t like exams! HNDs usually take two years to complete on a full-time basis, but may be studied part-time, which takes longer.
A Higher National Diploma provides you with the practical experience that will start you off in your chosen career. These popular and vocationally relevant programmes offer an alternative HE pathway and tend to require fewer UCAS points on entry.
Foundation Degrees (FdAs)
The Foundation Degree (FdA) programme is a new Higher Education qualification that combines academic study with learning and experience in the workplace. These are work
based qualifications, designed and delivered in partnership with employers to equip you with a combination of appropriate academic knowledge and technical transferable skills that employers are increasingly demanding. If you’re already in work, a Foundation Degree will provide you with the skills you
need to develop, or if you choose to study a full-time Foundation Degree, it’s the perfect opportunity to kick start your career!
Where will I study?
For many years, Northampton College has worked in partnership with The University of Northampton to develop a range of practically and vocationally-oriented Higher Education courses. Higher National Certificates are traditionally taught on a parttime basis at the University of Northampton, although it is possible to take modules at Northampton College. Higher National Diplomas are taught at Northampton College (the second year of some programmes is studied at The University of Northampton), although you will actually be a student of The University of Northampton. Stage 1 of the Foundation Degree is taught at Northampton College, and Stage 2 at the University of Northampton.
You may well be offered a place in the University’s Halls of Residence and travel a short distance each day to attend your classes, although courses are usually run intensively over three weekdays, providing time for study and leisure.
Applications
Applications for Higher National Diplomas and Foundation Degrees studied at Northampton College are made through the Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS). UCAS forms are available from your school or local library. Staff at Northampton College will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
For more information on Higher National Certificates, Higher
National Diplomas and Foundation Degrees, pop into the College and pick up a leaflet, or alternatively call the University of Northampton in the first instance on 0800 358 232.