Qualifications Explained

Level 3

The Level 3 Course consists of 60 to 80 credits, which is the equivalent of two A levels. Six to twelve modules depending on the programme and associated written assignments make up the course. The successful completion if this course allows students to enrol in the first year of an undergraduate degree programme or a Level 4 programme.

Level 4

The first year of a Bachelor’s Degree programme is equivalent to Level 4. The Level 4 course consists of six to ten modules and associated assignments including projects & presentations depending on the qualification type and industry area making a total of 120 university credits.

Level 5

The second year of a Bachelor’s Degree programme is equivalent to Level 5. The Level 5 course consists of six to ten modules and associated assignments including projects & presentations depending on the qualification type and industry area making a total of 120 university credits. It is also equivalent to a HND diploma.

Level 6 or Top Up

Upon completion of a Level 6 course, you will be eligible for admission onto a Postgraduate programme. The level 6 course is made up of 120 credits too. At present we would be able to offer our students BEng (Hons) Software Engineering Top-Up or BSc (Hons) Business Management Top-Up from BOLTON University.

Level 7

The Level 7 course carries 120 credits which gives entry onto the MBA/MSc Top Up, this can be completed by studying either online or on campus at a recognised UK or overseas university.

For an official breakdown of what each level means, please visit https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/compare-different-qualification-levels

University Progressions

How top-up degrees work

All of the academic courses offered by us will be Ofqual approved, and universities will generally accept the credits awarded to students. Students should make it clear to the University that the qualification is OFQUAL RQF validated at the stated level/credit value. We will provide students with the requisite Ofqual documentation and transcript. Alternatively, students can visit the Ofqual website https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/ to confirm the qualification. Each University will consider an application on its merits subject to their own specific entry requirements.

Graduating students can progress onto a University programme either to join at Undergraduate entry level, usually on completion of a Level 3 programme, or onto a “top-up” Degree, depending on the level of their completed Ofqual programme. Generally, Level 3 is Undergraduate entry, Level 4 first year Degree, Level 5 second year Degree, Level 6 Graduate level and Level 7 Post Graduate level.

University Top-up courses require you to have a qualification in a relevant subject. Your chosen course should be closely tied to your previous qualification.

Diploma Programmes

Degree Programmes

Teachers Training Programmes

Postgraduate Programmes

Professional Courses

IT (Computing)

Business