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Higher Technical Qualifications
What are HTQs?
Higher Technical Qualifications are either new or existing Level 4 and 5 qualifications (such as HNDs/Foundation Degrees/Diploma HE) that have been approved against occupational standards in their sector.
These qualifications have been developed by awarding bodies, who have worked with employers and businesses to make sure that learners get the specific training, knowledge and skills they need for their chosen career.
First teaching of the newly approved Digital qualifications begins in September 2022, with more courses in Construction and Health and Science coming in 2023.
Who are HTQs for?
HTQs are a great option for:
- School-leavers (18+) who are looking for an alternative to degrees or apprenticeships
- Anyone looking to upskill and gain a qualification, whether you’re already in employment or looking to retrain
What can a HTQ do for me?
- Right now, there are huge technical skills gaps, meaning employers need people with technical skills more than ever before.
- A HTQ offers you the opportunity to take a high-quality Level 4 or 5 qualification that has been specifically designed with employers to meet their needs.
- This means that HTQs can unlock high-skilled, highly-paid jobs that you can jump straight into.
- There are also often clear pathways to progress to further study from HTQs for those that want to pursue a degree.
How are HTQs taught?
HTQs can be taught in universities, Institutes of Technology, further education colleges, or independent training providers.
HTQs are primarily classroom-based qualifications and there is no mandatory work placement element.
However, many HTQs will provide experience of the workplace, including through workplace simulations, virtual workplaces and work experience – providing access to state-of-the-art facilities.
The qualifications are also flexible and include part-time options.
How is a HTQ different from…
- HTQs and apprenticeships are based on the same employer designed standards but will suit different learning styles.
- Apprenticeships are paid work, suitable for learners who know what occupation they want to pursue and wish to train ‘on the job’. HTQs offer a more flexible learning approach and are largely classroom based.
- On completion of their course, HTQ learners will be ready for work in their chosen area, and apprentices will have the skills they need for their chosen job.
- Degrees offer a Level 6 qualification, whereas HTQs are Level 4/5 qualifications.
- This means that HTQs are often shorter and cheaper than degrees.
- HTQs will suit anyone who wants to carry on studying towards a technical occupation, or those looking to retrain/upskill.
Please note
More information coming soon.
