Christmas Closure Information

Our campuses close on Friday 20th December and re-open on Thursday 2nd January 2025 for the Christmas Break.

Students will return to timetabled lessons on Monday 6th January 2025.

For information on term dates and enquiries please visit our information page using the button below.

University Centre Colchester | Qualifications Explained

Which course is for me?

There are many ways to study for a higher education qualification and choosing the right course will help you get the most out of your study at University Centre Colchester. If you have questions or would prefer to chat to our Academic Services department then please give us a call on (01206) 712777.

Certificate of Higher Education

These are practical vocational courses aimed at developing your knowledge and skills within a particular employment sector. The qualification is a similar level to the first year of an undergraduate degree. The Certificate in Higher Education in Construction at University Centre Colchester is a two year par-time course for existing construction employees. The Certificate in Higher Education in Business Innovation and Applied Management can be studied full-time or part-time.

Diploma of Higher Education

The Diploma of Higher Education enables you to gain specialist understanding of your chosen subject, the critical and analytical skills needed for further study, and a valuable qualification that’s highly rated by employers. The Diploma is a similar level to the second year of an undergraduate degree and can be used stepping stone towards an Honours Degree. The Diploma of Higher Education in Person Centred Counselling at University Centre Colchester is available as a full-time study programme.

Higher National Certificate

A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a work-related qualification that provides practical vocational training, to prepare you for a career in a particular area. HNCs are a similar level to the first year of an undergraduate degree. The Engineering HNCs at University Centre Colchester are offered as part-time study programmes. When you’ve successfully completed the HNC you can continue your studies and convert the qualification to a HND.

Higher National Diploma (HND)

A HND is similar to a HNC but you study additional units. HNDs are a similar level to the second year of an undergraduate degree. The Engineering HNDs at University Centre Colchester are offered as or part-time study programmes. When you’ve completed a HND you could enter the third year of a degree course.

Honours Degree

An Honours Degree can be in an academic or vocational subject. A full-time degree usually takes three years, while part-time degrees can take up to six years. The most common degrees are Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Sciences (BSc).

Masters Degree

Master’s courses enable you to develop advanced knowledge and skills in a particular subject area. The most common qualifications are Master Arts (MA), Master of Sciences (MSc) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). At University Centre Colchester we offer a part-time taught MA in Education.

Certificate in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector)

The part-time two year Certificate in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector) is aimed at those working in a post-compulsory education or training role, who need to gain a professional teaching qualification.

Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector)

The part-time two year Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector) is aimed at those working in a post-compulsory education or training role, who need to gain a professional teaching qualification.