With such a wide range of qualifications available we want to
make sure that you choose the right course for you. Many of our
courses are available at different levels and your choice is
dependent on your own qualifications and experiences.
Which Level is right for you?
Studying at the right level is essential to ensure that you find
your course challenging and enjoyable, without it being too hard.
This qualifications table gives you a guide to the different levels
available.
Qualifications explained
Hopefully by now you know which level is right for you, however
there is still a huge range of qualifications for you to choose
from. Here is some information to help you tell a NVQ from a
HNC!

Business & Technology Education Council (BTEC)
Diplomas
These qualifications develop the specialist skills required for
your chosen career. They enable you to demonstrate your skills and
knowledge in practical situations throughout the course rather than
taking exams. Level 3 Diplomas are recognised by universities and
employers alike as a great alternative to A-Levels.

Foundation Degrees
Foundation Degrees are university-level qualifications but
specifically designed with a particular area of work in mind and
with the help of employers from that sector. This mode of study has
been developed to enable you to apply your subject knowledge
directly to the workplace. 70% of your assessment will be through
exams, while 30% is through coursework. Download our Higher
Education prospectus for more information.
Functional Skills
All full-time courses up to and including Level 3 at
Shuttleworth College include opportunities to gain qualifications
in Functional Skills. These are skills that employers require and
you will be expected to demonstrate at interviews such as good
communication and numeracy. Functional skills therefore focus on
English, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Maths.