The majority of ScotGrad placements are open to graduates leaving college with either an HNC or HND qualification. A key distinction for many HNC and HND graduates is the provided standard and level of practical skills gained during their studies, which make them a highly attractive option for employers. These practical skills allow for a quick and easy transition to the world or work.
What are HNCs (Higher National Certificates) and HNDs (Higher National Diplomas)?
There are two types, Higher National Certificates (HNCs) at SCQF Level 7 and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) at SCQF Level 8. They are developed by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) in partnership with Scottish colleges, universities, industry and commerce
They focus on different occupational areas and prepare people with the knowledge and some experience to work in these areas.
As at June 2015, there were 249 HN Courses covering subject areas from the more traditional - Accounting, Business Administration, Childcare, Computing, Engineering, Hospitality – to the newer – Creative Industries, Paralegal, Sports and Leisure
Other benefits:
- HNC/D qualifications meet standards and are professionally recognised
- The qualifications meet the applicable National Occupational Standards. In many areas, HN graduates can then gain entry to relevant industry bodies.
- Higher National courses provide both the practical skills you need to do a job and the theoretical knowledge an employer will expect you to have.
- All the courses are made up of Higher National Units, mostly at SCQF levels 7 & 8.
- HNCs are made up of 96 SCQF credit points and usually take one year to complete (8 points per single unit based on 12 units)
- HNDs are made up of 240 SCQF credit points and usually take two years to complete (8 points per single unit based on 30 units in total)
Articulation:
HNC/D courses are delivered by Colleges and recognised by numerous Universities as the equivalent of the first two years of a Degree course. Articulation agreements are in place in most subject areas and can allow HN students to gain advanced entry into year 2 or year 3 or a Degree programme.
Attributes of Higher National Graduates:
The qualifications make an important contribution to Scotland’s economy through the development of high level skills and equip students with both sector specific and transferable skills (e.g. employability, enterprise and the Core Skills of Communication, Numeracy, Working with Others, Problem Solving and ICT)
HN students are assessed on a competence based approach
What do I gain by employing an HN graduate?
- A more rounded employee, ready to hit the ground running
- They will understand the practical side of the job
- Practical and project based approach
- Able to demonstrate analytical, logic and systematic approach skills
- Higher order thinking skills