What We Offer

A top-up degree is equivalent to the third year of University study and is designed to give you a deep understanding of your chosen subject. You will also learn key transferable skills, graduating with a strong learning in your discipline.

You can study this 1-year course after completing the foundation degree or Higher National Diploma (HND), topping up your qualification to a full Honours degree.

This 2-year qualification is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree and is designed to provide a comprehensive academic and practical understanding of your chosen specialism.

After completing a foundation degree, you will have a strong foundation in your chosen subject. You can progress straight into employment or pursue further studies by studying a top-up degree, allowing you to build up your qualification to a full honours degree,

A HNC (Higher National Certificate) is equivalent to year 1 of University study. After completing a HNC, you can progress to a HND (Higher National Diploma), which is equivalent to year 2 of University study. You can then progress to a top-up degree.

HNC and HND qualifications provide a great academic and practical learning in your chosen specialism. They offer lots of opportunity for practical learning, providing excellent skills for the workplace and future employment.

HTQ’s (Higher Technical Qualifications) are Level 4 and 5 qualifications. They are specialised training programmes developed by employers and awarding bodies, providing the exact training, knowledge and skills for a specific sector.

With this in mind, if you want to enter a specific career or industry, a HTQ could be a great choice for you.

These qualifications also open the door to further study, and you can use the credits gained through HTQ programmes to pursue a degree or an apprenticeship.

This nationally recognised qualification, known as a CertHE, is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor’s degree. It provides a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills, including transferable skills valued by employers and for further study.

Unlike a typical ‘Year 0’ or foundation year, the CertHE gives you a valuable, stand-alone qualification that enhances your CV.

Upon completion, you can progress directly to Year 2 of a foundation degree at University Centre Middlesbrough, allowing you to achieve a full degree within three years!

A Higher Apprenticeship is equivalent to University study and provides on-the-job training and experience. They combine vocational training in the workplace with academic study, developing your skills and knowledge for a specific career.