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Qualifications & courses


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!


Qualifications explained


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.


BTEC qualifications


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.