Brighton School of Business and Management | The Difference Between an HND and a Traditional Diploma

Many students are not fully aware of the differences between a Higher National Diploma and a traditional Diploma. This is a common issue among university students and this article will highlight the key variations between the two, assessing which qualification could be the right choice for you.

What is a HND?

A Higher National Diploma, commonly referred to as a HND, is a higher education qualification that is issued after studying on a two year, academic work-related course. A HND focuses on ‘learning by doing’, aiming to equip students with the working knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the workplace. 

A HND is a BTEC (business and technology) qualification that is awarded as a diploma in the UK by Pearson. This qualification can be completed full-time or part time over two years, or you can study a HNC (higher national certificate) which is a one-year course, and then Top Up to the second year to achieve a full HND. Usually, a HND is equivalent to studying the first two years of university and therefore can lead directly to the workplace or work as a stepping-stone to a full degree.  You can also use a HND to study for a further year at university to achieve a BA Hons degree.

What is a Diploma?

Diplomas come in many levels of qualification, but a Level 3 Diploma is what many people mean when they reference a “Diploma”. A Level 3 Diploma is equivalent to an A-Level qualification and so it can be used to gain access to a degree level course. Diploma courses can be completed part-time, full-time, in a classroom environment, remotely, or even a combination of the above. These days, distance learning is a hugely popular way for students to study diploma-level courses as it allows them the freedom to study around their jobs and families, as well as giving them the opportunity for personal and career growth. It is common for people to complete a Diploma and progress onto Higher Education as part of a HNC, HND or a Bachelor's Degree at a university.

Who should study for a HND?

If you’re interested in a hands-on career in sectors such as hospitality, engineering, business, marketing or social care, a HND qualification could be more beneficial by providing you with some practical experience. HNDs can be studied in a classroom or via distance learning, however, students are evaluated through completing assignments, and projects that are set throughout the course.

What are the requirements to study for a HND?

In order to study for a HND, you will need some previous qualifications. Most HND courses require you to have gained at least one A-Level, or an equivalent qualification, that’s where your traditional “Diploma” comes in.

Most universities accept HND qualifications as part of an alternative route to obtaining a degree. Upon completing a HND, graduates can progress into usually the 3rd year of a degree — this is often referred to as a “top up”. After successfully completing three years, a student may complete the studying period with not only a HND, but also an Honours degree. 

What about a traditional diploma?

Diplomas provide an alternative entry path to a wide range of undergraduate degrees. A diploma course is designed to give necessary, relevant vocational and practical skills to ensure learners can perform their job roles competently and efficiently. 

Upon the completion of the diploma course, students will have a thorough understanding of their chosen subject, be competent and effectively execute tasks or jobs relating to their chosen educational field. These skills are invaluable when it comes to gaining employment and developing your job into a successful, enriching career.

At Brighton School of Business and Management, we offer many different types of HND qualifications, which you can learn about here. We also work closely with universities to provide a direct route onto a BA Hons “Top-Up” year.

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