Study Levels
Qualifications
Your exam results, previous qualifications and experience will help determine which entry level best suits you.
Motherwell College makes it possible for you to take your learning to whatever level you want. You can start by pursuing an NQ (National Qualification) and progress from HNC (Higher National Certificate) to HND (Higher National Diploma) up to degree level without going anywhere else.
We also have close links with many of Scotland’s universities, so in some cases you can use your qualification from Motherwell College to join the second or third year of a degree programme elsewhere.
Degrees and Professional Qualifications
Bachelors Degrees in some subjects are available at Motherwell College. You can progress to them through NQ, HNC and HND courses in the relevant subjects. Degrees usually take another one or two years to complete. Professional Development Awards (PDA) are available at various levels and are designed to develop your skills and provide you with a qualification related to a specific job.
HNC and HND courses
High National courses consist of units, each having a credit value. You will need 12 to 15 credits for an HNC and 30 credits for an HND. If you study full time an HNC normally take 1 year and HND two years, with the HNC leading directly to the second year of the HND. An HND may allow you to join a degree course at second or third year, either with Motherwell College or another Higher Education institution.
NC/NQ and Access courses
These qualifications are made up of courses and units which fit together to provide you with a balanced programme of study. You will also study five core skills. When you finish your course, all the units you have passed and Core Skills you have achieved will be recorded on a Scottish Qualifications Authority Certificate.
Vocational Qualifications (NVQ/SVQ/VRQ)
You earn these qualifications whilst at your work. They are based on evidence of the way you do your job, and are designed to help you in your career, while encouraging you to go on to further learning. Standards are set by industry. The five levels range from foundation training to senior management development. We also offer a range of qualifications from other UK Awarding Bodies, including City & Guilds, to meet the needs of individuals, employers and organisations.
Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)
The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) helps you understand how different courses relate to each other.
Each qualification is given SCOTCAT credit points and a level to make it easier for you to compare one with another.
Looking at the different levels in the framework, you can see where you are now and the different routes you can take to reach your next destination.
For more information on The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework visit www.scqf.org.uk