Difference Between HND and HNC
Many students find it difficult to spend three or four years full-time studying for a degree at a university. HNDs and HNCs are great alternatives for those who want to finish their studies in a short period, also at the same time wants to get valued at job sector.
Both of these degrees are undergrad qualifications and takes less time to complete and are mostly designed to prepare a student for a specific career.
What is an HND?
A Higher National Diploma (HND) is a work-related programme issued by higher and further education college in the UK. A full-time HND takes two years to complete, whereas a part-time takes three to four years to complete. Generally, an HND is equivalent to two years at university and is level 5 in the UK.
What is an HNC?
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a level below (level 4) an HND, generally equivalent to the first year at university. Most of the subjects are the same in the HNC course as HND. A full-time HNC takes one year to complete, and a part-time takes two years.
Difference Between HND and HNC
Both HNDs and HNCs are degree pathway courses which are flexible and can be top up to a full degree with further study. Students pursuing an HNC course can transfer to the second year of a degree programme, whereas, an HND takes directly into the third year of a degree course.
HND and HNC programmes allow students to study a subject to find out if they like it before deciding either they want to continue it to degree level. These courses also provide a group-based, practical approach to learning. Also, both these programmes are more affordable alternative to studying a traditional degree at a university.
Moreover, these qualifications are valued by employers and also allows the entry of many respected careers, and also count towards membership of professional companies.
Subjects Available and Entry Qualification
HND and HNC programmes are available in a wide range of subjects.such as Agriculture, Business and management, Computing and IT, Construction and civil engineering, health and social care, Perform arts, sports and distribution and more.
Most students can start directly after their A level. Usually, a student will need one higher level qualification, such as A level or equivalent to A level degree to enter an HNC course and two higher level qualifications or two A levels to start an HND programme. These requirements may vary by course and course provider.
Where HND and HNC can Lead?
HNCs and HNDs are designed to provide the skills for a particular fieldof work which can lead straight to a career. A student can also use the qualifications to progress within the current career to acquire professional status.
While studying, a student can achieve many potential skills that lead to success in future, whether the person wants to go on to further study at university or develop a career. The student can gain knowledge by understanding the skills required for success in their current and future employment or progression to an undergraduate degree.
