Looking to get admission to a university, But among that list of degrees, you can’t choose which one to proceed with. Here in this blog, we are going to discuss the different types of degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels that you can choose from when applying to university.
Understanding the UK’s Qualification Framework
The UK has a system called the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ). These frameworks make sure that every level of education follows the same standards. Here’s a simple breakdown of this framework:
- Level 4: Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) – A qualification you can get after the first year of university or standalone short courses.
- Level 5: Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) – A step just before a full bachelor’s degree, often focused on specific skills or practical knowledge.
- Level 6: Bachelor’s Degree (BA, BSc, BEng) – Your typical undergraduate degree, completed in 3-4 years.
- Level 7: Master’s Degree (MA, MSc, MBA) – A postgraduate degree for advanced learning in a specific field.
- Level 8: Doctorate (PhD, DBA) – The highest level of academic achievement based on original research or expertise.
Types of Degrees in the UK
- Undergraduate Degrees
- Postgraduate Degrees
Difference between Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees?
Undergraduate and Postgraduate are both higher levels of education.. But how to pursue them is quite different. An undergraduate degree is the first step you can take right after finishing school. At the same time, after you have completed your undergraduate degree, only then can you pursue a postgraduate degree.
The framework ranks undergraduate degrees at levels 4, 5, and 6, while postgraduate degrees are at levels 7 or 8.
Undergraduate degrees focus on broadly covering different areas of a subject (a more generalized study), while postgraduate degrees are more about specializing in a particular subject. Postgraduate degrees are more self-studied. They have fewer lectures, tutorials and labs. These degrees take less time to complete than an undergraduate degree until or unless you’re a PHD student.
What is an Undergraduate Degree?
An undergraduate degree is the first level of education that a student can pursue after completing school. It provides foundational knowledge and skills in a specific subject area and often prepares students for a career or further studies.
The most common type of undergraduate degree is a bachelor’s degree, such as:
- BSc Human Resource Management
- BA in Business Management and Leadership
- BA in Business Management
It usually takes 3-4 years to complete.
Students can also opt for shorter courses, like a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE), Foundation Degree, or Higher National Diploma (HND). These usually last one or two years. Undergraduate degrees usually involve lectures, seminars, labs and exams that last a year or two. Once completed, students can either choose to work or continue their education with a postgraduate degree.
Bachelors Degree:
A Bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to complete, and it requires you to study one or two subjects in detail. According to the UK’s framework, it is the most common type of undergraduate degree and falls in Level 6 Education.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB)
In Scotland, some undergraduate degrees are cited as MAs (Master of Arts), but they are equal to Bachelor’s degrees in any other country.
If you choose to study a single subject, it’s called a single honours degree. You can also study a primary subject along with a secondary subject, referred to as a major/minor honours degree. In these cases, the degree title reflects the major and minor subjects, such as Psychology with Criminology or Law with International Relations.
For those who want to study two or three subjects, a combined or joint honours degree is an option. Here, you’ll take modules from each subject, and all subjects will contribute equally to your final result. Examples include Law and Spanish or Accounting and Business.
Duration of Study
A full-time bachelor’s degree takes three years to complete. But, some courses may last four years, especially those that include a year abroad or a placement year. Subjects like Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary Science can take up to 5-6 years to complete. If you choose to study part-time, your degree will take longer to complete.
In Scotland, honors degrees generally take four years.
Intercalated and Integrated Degrees
Intercalated Degree:
Some courses allow students to take a break from their main undergraduate subject to complete a separate qualification. This option is common in Medicine or Dentistry, and by the end of this course, you could graduate with two degrees.
Who can take an intercalated degree?
- Medical students
- Dental students
- Veterinary students
Integrated Degrees:
An Integrated Degree combines different levels of study into a single program. Thus, students can learn from multiple programs while pursuing one advanced degree.
Entry Requirements:
To be eligible for a bachelor’s degree, students typically need to meet specific entry requirements, including:
- A Levels (or equivalent qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or vocational qualifications).
- Typical grades: Most universities expect grades between AAB and CCC, though the requirements vary by university and course. More competitive programs, such as Medicine, have higher grades.
Some universities may also accept alternative qualifications or offer foundation years to students who do not meet the typical entry requirements. Additionally, some courses may require specific subjects (e.g., A-level mathematics for a BSc in Engineering).
Fee Structure:
For UK students, the tuition fee for a full-time bachelor’s degree is capped at around £9,250 per year. For international students, tuition fees range from £12,500 to £37,293 per year, with clinical courses like Medicine potentially costing as much as £64,000 per year.
Foundation Year/Foundation Diploma and Foundation Degree
Foundation Year / Foundation Diploma
A foundation year or foundation diploma is an introductory course designed to prepare students for a bachelor’s degree. It lasts one year and is typically offered by universities or further education (FE) colleges to help students meet the entry requirements. This qualification is perfect for students who don’t yet meet the necessary entry standards.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: The entry requirements for foundation years are generally lower. Many courses accept non-traditional qualifications, and specific requirements vary by institution. If studied full time, it usually takes one year to complete.
Foundation Degree
A foundation degree (FdA, FdSc) is a Level 5 qualification that combines academic study with practical, workplace-based learning. It is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. You can either start a job after this or allow students to progress to the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: If studied full-time, it takes 2 years to complete; for part-time study, it can take 3 to 4 years. As far as the Entry is concerned, some courses may require specific GCSEs and A Levels (or equivalent), while others may prioritize work experience.
Top-up degree:
A top-up degree is an option for students who have completed a Level 5 “Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma) qualification, and want to upgrade it to a full bachelor’s degree.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: A top-up degree usually takes 1 year to complete if studied full-time. For part-time students, it typically takes around 18 months. To pursue a top-up degree, you must have completed a two-year qualification, such as a foundation degree, Higher National Diploma (HND), or a Level 5 BTEC. Most universities expect this previous qualification to be in the same field as the top-up degree you wish to pursue.
Who is it for?
- Students who are not sure about committing to a full degree.
- Those seeking hands-on experience with their degree.
Higher National Certificate and Higher National Diploma
Higher National Certificate:
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a Level 4, practice-based associate degree that is considered equal to the first year of a university degree. It is typically pursued by students who either want to train for a specific career path or intend to continue their studies into the second year of a bachelor’s degree.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: An HNC takes 1 year to complete if studied full-time and 2 years if studied part-time. The entry requirements for an HNC are generally lower than those for a bachelor’s degree. Typically, you’ll need one or two A Levels or another equivalent qualification.
Higher National Diploma:
A Higher National Diploma (HND) is a Level 5 qualification similar to an HNC, but it takes two years to complete. It is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. An HND is a vocational course for those who want to develop practical skills in a specific field or move on to the third year of a bachelor’s degree after completing it.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: HND usually takes 2 years for full-time students and 3 to 4 years for part-time students. The entry requirements for an HND are generally lower than for a bachelor’s degree. Most courses require at least one or two A-levels or another equivalent qualification.
Certificate and Diploma of Higher Education:
Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)
A Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) is a Level 4 qualification that serves as an alternative for those unable to commit to a full three-year degree. Equivalent to both an HNC and the first year of a bachelor’s degree, it is often used as a stepping stone to further study. Unlike HNCs, CertHE emphasizes academic learning rather than practical training.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: A CertHE takes 1 year to complete when studied full-time or 2 years when studied part-time. Some courses may require A Levels or equivalent qualifications, while others have no formal requirements. Most programs may expect at least a Grade C in GCSE English, and creative subjects like Design or Photography may ask for a portfolio showcasing your work.
Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE):
A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) is a Level 5 qualification equivalent to an HND or the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. This program is more academically focused, and completing it often allows students to advance directly into the final year of a bachelor’s degree.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: A DipHE typically takes 2 years to complete when studied full-time, with part-time options taking longer. The entry requirements are similar to those for a CertHE, typically including A Levels or equivalent qualifications. Specific requirements may vary depending on the subject and institution.
Certificate of Continuing Education (CertCE)
A CertCE qualification is for those who want a taste of higher education. It equates to 60 undergraduate degree credits at level 4 or 5, so about half a year of study, and can lead to a full undergraduate degree.
Postgraduate degrees:
What is a Postgraduate degree?
A postgraduate degree is the next stage of education after completing an undergraduate degree. In England and Wales, it is ranked as a Level 7 or Level 8 qualification, while in Scotland, it is equivalent to Level 11 or Level 12.
Postgraduate programs allow students to study a subject in detail that they chose to study in their undergraduate program. Conversion courses are also available for those considering a career change, helping them transition to a new field.
Postgraduate degrees are categorized into two main types:
Taught Degrees:
These are similar in structure to undergraduate programs and include lectures, tutorials, and lab sessions led by academic tutors. Examples of taught postgraduate degrees include master’s degrees, postgraduate certificates, and postgraduate diplomas.
Research Degrees:
These are designed for students who want to engage in independent study. Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, students conduct original research on a topic of their choice. Examples of research-based postgraduate qualifications include doctorates (PhDs) and certain types of master’s degrees.
Postgraduate study is ideal for those looking to heighten their expertise or switch career paths while gaining specialized knowledge.
Master’s Degree
A master’s degree is the most popular type of postgraduate qualification, categorized as a Level 7 qualification. It’s typically pursued after completing a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification. Common types of master’s degrees include:
- MBA Part-time
- MBA Full-time
- MRes Sustainability
- MRes Management
- MA DL Programmes in Politics and International Relations
- MSc Human Resource Management and Training
- Master of Business Administration
Most master’s programs are taught degrees, which include structured learning like lectures and seminars. However, some universities also offer research-focused master’s degrees, which are more self-guided and centred around a specific research project.
Additionally, a master’s degree can be integrated into other programs, such as an undergraduate degree or a doctoral degree, creating a combined pathway like the Master of Engineering (MEng).
Completing a master’s degree is typically a prerequisite for students aiming to pursue a doctorate (PhD).
Duration of Study:
A master’s degree typically takes one year to complete if studied full-time, while part-time programs usually span two years. Certain undergraduate programs include a master’s degree as part of the curriculum, allowing students to get both graduate degrees in four years of full-time study.
Entry Requirements:
Most universities require at least a 2:2 bachelor’s degree in a related field to enroll in a master’s program. However, some programs may set higher standards, asking for a 2:1 or above. Equivalent academic qualifications are accepted for international students, and specific details can usually be found on the university’s course page.
(MBA) Master’s of Business Administration:
An MBA is a level 7 postgraduate degree for students looking to advance their expertise in business and management. Students can select from different modules that are usually required to complete a dissertation or work-based project. Many programs also provide opportunities to study internationally and provide hands-on experience. Full-time MBA programs generally take 12 to 15 months to complete. However, some accelerated options can help you complete it in less time. For those pursuing an Executive MBA part-time, the program generally takes up to two years and offers flexibility for students who want to continue working while studying.
Entry Requirements:
A 2:1 is required to get admission to an MBA degree; You also need to have two years of work experience in your respective field. If you don’t have a 2:1 score but have experience of 2 years, you may still get considered. Some institutes may ask for a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) as part of your application. Some may also accept GRE scores (Graduate Record Examinations General Test).
Master’s Degree in Law:
A Master’s Degree in Law (LLM) is a level 7 postgraduate qualification. Some courses can help Law graduates specialize in a particular area, such as criminal litigation or environmental law. Lawse courses are generally taught as opposed to research-based courses, meaning you’ll select the modules that interest you and have a dissertation or research project to complete.
Others may be Law conversion courses, which offer non-law graduates the first step into a legal career. Conversion courses include the core legal knowledge required to become a solicitor or barrister.
Entry Requirements:
Most LLM courses require a 2:1 bachelor’s degree, but some can accept a 2:2 course if you have relevant work experience. Suppose you want to specialize in a Law Degree, whether it’s an LLB or a postgraduate Law conversion course. Some courses can take one year to complete, but some can take a little longer. Doing part-time or taking an online course can take up to two years.
Doctorate:
A doctorate is the top postgraduate-level qualification you can get. This level 8 qualification consists of both research and academic learning, but it is mostly research-focused. You’ll spend the entire degree working on an independent thesis based on an original research proposal agreed with your supervisor.
There are two common types of doctorate degrees. The first is academic, which is based on original research to expand knowledge within a particular subject area. These include PhD and DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy).
Professional doctorate degrees, which involve research and broadening knowledge but incorporate more practical learning, are also available. These include MD (Doctor of Medicine), DClinPsy (Doctor of Clinical Psychology) and PhD(Eng)/EngD (Doctor of Engineering).
A PhD degree usually takes 3-4 years to get a degree in PhD, but if you study part-time, it can take up to 5-6 years.
Entry Requirements:
A 2:1 bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject is essential. Most PhDs will also want you to complete your master’s. You may be asked for evidence of research work and your knowledge of research methods. You may need to submit a detailed research proposal of what you’d like to study for your thesis.
Postgraduate Certificate/Postgraduate Diploma:
A postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) is a level 7 education for those looking for a better education without a master’s. It is studied at the master’s level, but it doesn’t require a dissertation or research project. It is worth 60 credit hours, and you need 180 credit hours to graduate with a master’s.
A postgraduate diploma (PGDip) is like a PGCert, but it is twice as long. This level 7 education is worth 120 credit hours for a master’s.
Both qualifications are usually offered with a master’s degree. A PGCert is seen as equivalent to one-third of a master’s degree, with a PGDip being equivalent to two-thirds. In some universities, they will let you upgrade your PGDip into a complete master’s degree if you submit a research paper and dissertation.
- Duration and Entry Requirements: The duration usually depends on the structure of your course. PGCerts can usually take a term (15 weeks) to complete, but if you’re studying part-time, it can take up to a year. PGDips can take two terms (30 weeks) to a year, or if it is studied part-time, it can take about 2 years to complete. A 2:1 bachelor’s degree will be required for most PGCerts and PGDips. Some may take a 2:2 in a relevant subject.
Conversion courses:
A conversion course is perfect for those students who want to switch careers. This is a postgraduate program that allows you to study a subject that you didn’t study as part of your undergraduate degree. Most are taught degrees and are condensed as part of an undergraduate degree. Students also take conversion courses to further study at the master’s level.
Duration: Most courses take one year to complete if you study full-time. An online conversion course can take even less time, while part-time study can take longer.
Other qualifications and degree courses
National Vocational Qualification:
A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) is a practice-based degree focusing on real-life skills. The programs require students to be in part-time or full-time work routines to demonstrate their skills in the field. In Scotland, the equivalent is the Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ).
NVQs is a level 7 education. Studying it at levels 4 and 5 is equivalent to one-third and two-thirds of a bachelor’s degree, respectively, with level 7 being equivalent to a master’s degree. The time it takes to complete an NVQ is based on its modules. You’re assessed through your portfolio or being observed while at work.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
Students who left school without any traditional qualifications and now want to join a university can continue their level 3 qualification at Further Education (FE) colleges. This qualification prepares students for a degree, and universities consider it equivalent to A-levels, BTECs, the International Baccalaureate and advanced highers.
Accelerated degree
An accelerated degree allows you to complete your bachelor’s degree in a shorter period. This means completing a three-year degree in two years or a four-year degree in three. You’ll be taught the same course material as you would in a normal bachelor’s degree, but you’ll have fewer holidays.
- Who is it for?: Students aiming to enter the workforce quickly.
Degree with placement year
It is also called a ‘sandwich year. ‘ This qualification is typically a four-year degree, with the third year spent either studying abroad or working in a placement. It is a perfect opportunity to gain valuable experience learning in a new country or working in the sector you wish to be employed in.
Emerging Degree Formats
Online and Hybrid Degrees
Now, you can also access Online and Hybrid Degree models. These are some of the main features of this system.
- Flexibility: This system allows you to be flexible without any restriction of place or time. You can also manage other commitments without compromising your studies.
- Popular Fields: This model can also be used to study popular fields such as Business, Computer Science, Healthcare and many more.
Additional Information for Students:
The UK is known for its world-class education standards, which attract many students. Among the most in-demand degrees are Business, Engineering and Medicine.
Business Degrees: The UK is home to many business schools, such as the London School of Business and the University of Oxford. These are high-value programs, and students can benefit from their Strong Industry connections.
Engineering Degrees: The UK is known for its Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Programs. Institutions like the Imperial College of London and the University of London are highly regarded all over the world.
Medical Degrees: The UK has the best Medical Programs worldwide, including institutes like Kings College London and the University of Edinburgh. These programs offer hands-on clinical experience and have produced some of the world’s best healthcare professionals.
English Language Requirements:
If you want to study in the UK, then it is mandatory to prove your proficiency in the English Language. Most universities ask you to prove your language skills through different Language tests. The most recognized test is IELTS, with typical score requirement ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Some Universities also accept tests like TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge English Qualifications.
If you’re an International Student, you need these scores to qualify:
- If you want to get admission to an undergraduate program, A minimum IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 is required.
- For post-graduate degrees and Doctorate Programs, you must have a minimum score of 7.0-7.5.
Visa Eligibility:
If you want to study in the UK, you need a (Tier 4) Student Visa. Here are some key details:
- To Be visa-eligible, you must have an offer letter from a university in the UK.
- You have sufficient funds to cover the cost of your fees and living (inside or outside London).
- The visa also requires a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
- The UK Student Visa allows part-time work of up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Conclusion
The UK’s education system offers riches for students, undergraduate, doctoral degrees whatever you want. By understanding the various options, formats, and pathways available, you can make an informed decision that aligns with whatever career you choose for your personal goals. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, industry-focused learning, or academic excellence, there’s a degree in the UK for everyone.
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