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Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)

HNDs are work-related, or vocational, higher education qualifications to give you the skills you need to work in a particular job. As Level 5 qualifications (equivalent to a foundation degree) with the focus on ‘learning by doing, these practical diplomas are highly valued by employers.

These internationally recognised qualifications can also count towards membership of professional bodies and other employer organisations.

Belfast Met has a very wide range of HND options, and we can also help you choose the course that fits your career plans and helps you progress.

 

What are HNDs?

 

Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) are Level 5 qualifications that are designed for you to help you specialise in a certain career or move on into either second or third year in university.

As Level 5 qualifications (equivalent to a foundation degree) with the focus on ‘learning by doing’, these practical diplomas are highly valued by employers. It will offer you a more relaxed setting focusing on teaching you practical skills, and providing you with real-life work experience. And if in the future, you want to step on to a degree or any other higher education qualification, an HND is a great starting point.

Benefits of HNDs

 

HNDs will have considerably lower fees than a university, and you will also be entitled to a student loan while studying.

The best part of studying an HND is that, on completion, there will be so many options available to you. They include continuing Higher Education through a degree or a professional qualification or going into full-time work.

Although, it is itself a great qualification to earn, graduates who want to complete additional Higher Education can use their HND as an excellent steppingstone to progress onto a full degree programme, as they will help you gain entry into the second year of a related degree course.