Qualifications Explained
Further Education (FE)
Pathways
Pathways courses are designed to enable students of varying abilities, and those who have been out of formal education for some time, to acquire meaningful qualifications and experience, helping them progress into further study or employment.
These courses build independence in the classroom or simulated environments. The focus is on a holistic approach with learners at the centre of each programme. You will also develop personal and social skills and enhance your ability to make informed life choices, allowing you to succeed at a level that is right for you.
Entry requirements – There are no formal entry requirements, but applicants are required to attend an interview.
What next – Previous students have successfully progressed on to Level 1 courses of vocational subjects at the College.
Vocational Courses
We offer a wide range of vocational courses across our campuses, all taught in high-spec industry-standard facilities. Courses range from Entry Level to Level 3. So whatever area of interest or level of study, we have a course for you.
All of our courses will equip you with the right skills to step into your chosen career or move on to Higher Education, with a Level 3 qualification.
Our courses are mapped to Wiltshire’s economic priorities, ensuring you are trained for a real career within an industry that you will be able to progress into once you complete your course.
Entry Level Study Programmes
Entry Level Study Programmes
Entry Requirements – There are no formal entry requirements, but applicants are required to attend an interview.
What Next – Previous students have successfully progressed on to Level 1 courses of vocational subjects at the College.
Level 1 Study Programmes
Entry Requirements – Typically, four GCSEs at grade 1 or 2.
What Next – This is your first step towards a Level 2 course or an Apprenticeship.
Level 2 Study Programmes
Entry Requirements – Four GCSEs at grade 3 including English & maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 1 Course.
What Next – Students can progress onto a Level 3 course, T Level, an Apprenticeship or into skilled employment.
Level 3 Study Programmes
Entry Requirements – Four GCSEs at grades 4-9 including English & maths, or Merit or Distinction in a related Level 2 Course.
What Next – Successful completion of a Level 3 programme could lead to skilled employment or further study at university level which is known as Higher Education (HE).
T Levels
Information & Entry Requirements
T Levels are the newest post-16 qualification and will help take your career to the next level. T Levels are knowledge rich and develop technical skills that employers need. They offer a mixture of classroom learning and ‘on-the-job’ experience through an industry placement. T Levels are the equivalent of three A Levels and offer invaluable and meaningful wok experience, with students spending 20% of their time in the workplace.
Entry Requirements – Five GCSEs at grades 4-9 including English, maths and science, or Merit or Distinction in a related Level 2 Course.
What Next – Successful completion of a T Level could lead you straight into skilled employment or further study at university level which is known as Higher Education (HE).
Apprenticeships
Information & Entry Requirements
An apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity for you to gain a recognised qualification whilst getting paid. At WCUC, we work with around 700 employers and deliver more that 70 different apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors and skill levels.
As an apprentice, you will receive a wage and will need to work at least 30 hours per week, including study at WCUC. Apprentices working under 30 hours per week are considered part time, and this may mean that their apprenticeship is extended. Whatever weekly hours are agreed, 20% of them must still be spent in off-the-job training. You will learn alongside experienced industry professionals and build real industry-ready skills of your own.
Entry Requirements – Some apprenticeships require certain qualifications, for example GCSE English and maths. You may be given extra training to meet these qualifications.
What Next – A Higher Apprenticeship or permanent skilled employment in your chosen industry.
Access To Higher Education Courses
Information & Entry Requirements
Our Access to Higher Education course can help you achieve your educational goals and pave the way for higher education opportunities, designed for adults who do not have A Levels or Level 3 qualifications. The Access to Higher Education course covers a broad range of subjects, allowing you to explore different disciplines and discover your areas of interest. You will have the opportunity to enhance your critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, which are vital for success in higher education.
Entry Requirements – Four GCSE’s at grade 4 (C) or equivalent, including English and maths.
What Next – Further study at university level which is known as Higher Education (HE).
Higher Education (HE)
Higher National Certificates (HNC)
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a highly practical qualification, normally studied over one year full-time or two years part-time, and can be used as entry to the second year of a degree course – or, more commonly, topped up to a Higher National Diploma with a further year of study.
Higher National Diploma (HND)
A Higher National Diploma (HND) is usually studied over two years full-time or three years part-time and, like Foundation Degrees, can be converted to a full degree by topping up with a final year.
Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are technical qualifications that have been developed by employers and awarding bodies, so you will get the right training, knowledge and skills to succeed in the workplace. They are usually studied over one or two years full-time, with part-time options available, and can be converted to a full degree buy topping up with a final year.
Foundation Degree (FD)
A Foundation Degree (Fd) qualification is equivalent to the first two years of a degree course. Usually designed with input from employers, these courses ensure that, on completion, students can make an immediate contribution to their workplace. Students often then chose to top up their qualifications by either joining the third year of a degree or a specially designed ‘top-up’ qualification.
Top-Up Year Or ‘Integrated Degree’
A top-up year is normally one year of study at Level 6, which is the final year of a full degree programme and follows either a Foundation Degree or an HND in the same or similar subject.
Degrees
A full degree is a three-year programme which includes research projects in the final year. The course will lead to a Bachelor’s Degree. Students may also have the option to undertake a placement year.
Higher/ Degree Apprenticeships
These are a great alternative to university, with many now offering training to degree and postgraduate degree level. You will receive training both on and off the job, a salary and the opportunity to move your career forward – all without tuition fees.
Contact Us
Can’t find the answer to your question? Want to speak to someone about college 16-19 courses?
Contact the admissions team and we’ll get you started.