Apply to SRUC | College & university qualifications explained

Qualifications available to study at SRUC:

National Certificate (NC)

NC’s are vocationally focussed and they can equip you with the practical skills needed for work. After completing an NC, you can progress to HNC/HND study or into the world of work.

Professional Development Award (PDA)

PDA's are designed for those who would like to broaden their knowledge and skillset in a career they are already working in.

Higher National Certificate (HNC) / Higher National Diploma (HND)

HN (Higher National) courses are shorter undergraduate qualifications focused on practical skills for specific careers. A full-time HNC takes 1 year and can lead to an HND, 2nd year of university, or work. A full-time HND takes 2 years and can lead to 3rd year of university or employment.

Undergraduate degree

Undergraduate degrees are studied for 4 years full time. Alternatively, you can choose to leave after your third year, and you would receive a degree without honours. At SRUC, you can choose to study full-time or part-time for your degree, depending on the course.

Postgraduate degree

After completing a bachelors degree, you may decide that you would like to further your education and study for a postgraduate degree. This is a good way to further your specialist knowledge or advance your career. At SRUC, we offer Masters (MSc) and Postgraduate Diplomas (PgDip) courses. Postgraduate courses can be taught or research degrees, to be studied full-time, or part-time distance learning, depending on the course.

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)

Many of our courses have a qualification in the course title, for example Higher National Certificate (HNC), followed by a level from The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), such as Level 7. The SCQF interactive framework helps make the relationships between qualifications and the level reached clearer for employers, universities and colleges. Visit the SCQF website for more information.

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Apprenticeships

Scottish vocational qualifications (SVQs) and Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) are work-based qualifications. The qualifications combine studying with working, and evidence is submitted for the qualification, rather than formal written exams. The amount you need to attend college will vary depending on the course. To study, you must be employed or be able to secure a work placement.

Micro-credentials

Micro-credentials are short, accredited learning experiences that facilitate flexible and innovative professional development and lifelong learning. SRUC micro-credentials offer bite-sized accredited learning for continuing or professional development. And every micro-credential course offered is accredited, earning you 10-20 Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework (SCQF) credits upon completion.

Short courses & professional development

These courses, also referred to as training courses or CPD (continuous professional development) are typically a few hours to a few days in length and are designed to develop or enhance your skill set in a specific area.

What do you want to do next?

GROW: Stories of progression at SRUC

We believe every student’s journey is unique - and we’re proud to offer pathways that help you grow, step by step. Whether you’re studying full-time, part-time, or from a distance, you’ll find flexible options and support to help you reach your goals.

This booklet shares the real stories of students who have taken those next steps with us - we hope their journeys inspire you to start (or continue) your own.

Read the booklet

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Study Options

Explore all the ways you can learn at SRUC. From entry-level to Master's degree and beyond, full or part time study, distance learning, apprenticeships, mature students and courses for schools. We're here to help you and your business thrive.

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Student Life

Explore what life is like at SRUC from before your arrival all the way through to graduation. Find campus and accommodation information, tips, checklists and helpful information on getting started at SRUC, student support services before, during, and after you arrive, term dates and timetables, Moodle, and more.