Why start with a Higher National (HN) qualification?
HNCs (SCQF Level 7) and HNDs (SCQF Level 8) are respected higher-education qualifications. They offer a practical, supported way to build skills, gain confidence and progress into a degree - often with entry into the second or third year of university. For many learners, they’re the perfect bridge between school and university.
There’s a wide range of subjects to choose from, including nursing, accounting, video production, pharmacy, animal care, and computer science.
HNCs usually take one year to complete, while HNDs generally take two years. There’s also flexible study options, including part-time courses.
HNs – a pathway to university and further study
Higher National (HN) qualifications don’t just prepare learners for employment – they are also recognised higher education qualifications that can provide progression to university‑level study.
HNs can support advanced entry into a wide range of undergraduate degree programmes at universities and higher education institutions in the UK and internationally. In some cases, an HNC may allow direct entry into Year 2 of a degree, while an HND may allow direct entry into Year 3, subject to the university and course requirements.
Progression routes are agreed through articulation arrangements, and learners are encouraged to speak to student advisors or university external engagement teams for further guidance on progression options.
What are HNs?
Higher National (HN) qualifications equip learners with the practical skills needed for the workplace, alongside the theoretical knowledge employers value.
Higher National (HN) qualifications offer a practical and flexible route into employment or further study. An HNC typically takes one year to complete, while an HND usually takes two years, with part-time and flexible study options often available for those balancing work or other commitments.
HN qualifications are suitable for a wide range of learners, including school leavers, adults returning to education, employees looking to progress their careers, and entrepreneurs seeking skills to start their own business.
All HN qualifications are made up of Higher National Unit credits. Each credit represents around 40 hours of classroom learning and 40 hours of independent study. An HNC normally consists of 12 credits (some centres may offer up to 15), while an HND includes up to 30 credits.
Developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry, HNs combine theoretical learning with practical, workplace‑focused skills. Assessment is continuous and may include essays, presentations, projects and questioning.
Graduates can progress directly into employment, gain entry to certain professional bodies, or move on to a related undergraduate degree. Entry requirements vary by provider, with applicants typically accepted based on formal qualifications and/or relevant work experience.
Benefits of HNs at UHI Argyll
Trusted qualifications
Acknowledged by employers, colleges, universities, and professional bodies
A pathway to a degree
Direct entry into the second or third year of a university degree programme
A confident transition after school
Starting at your local college gives you time to grow, build confidence and get ready for university
Smaller classes, more support
With small classes, your lecturers know you by name, not just as a number. You’ll get more one-to-one time and support throughout your studies Student Support
A financially sensible choice
Starting at your local college can help you save money and reduce stress whilst gaining real qualifications and before moving away from home Funding options
Progress at your own pace
Build your qualifications step-by-step. College gives you the time to develop academically and personally, without the pressure of committing to long-term choices before you’re ready.
Funding
Confused about funding?
Everyone's situation is different so if you read the information below and you're still unsure what you might be eligible for, please have a chat with your local centre team. Let them know about your circumstances, and they will point you in the right direction.
Course fees are explained in the Fees and Funding Guide
If you have not completed your funding application before your course starts, make sure you do within six weeks of the start date so that your payments are backdated to the beginning - otherwise your payments will only be backdated to the date you provided the final correct evidence needed to process your application.
At busy times (like July to September) it can take up to 4 weeks to process the application. You can track the progress of your application on the Student Hub.
Please contact ACStudentSupport@uhi.ac.uk if you need any help throughout this process.
Support
We strive to create the ideal study environment for each and every student.
Our friendly, approachable local centre staff are here to support you and will be able to advise on most of your day to day questions. If you need more specialist help they will be able to direct or refer you to the most appropriate service. Your course lecturer will be your first point of contact if you have problems or questions about any aspect of your course.
You can also contact our Student Support team by email at ACStudentSupport@uhi.ac.uk, who cover a wide range of things important to your student life - including funding advice, additional support for learning, alternative assessment arrangements, mental health support and other issues that may affect your learning experience.
Our student support team can speak to you privately and in confidence if you have any problems you’d like advice or information on.
At the start of your course you will be invited to attend a welcome session, where you will get the important information needed to get the most from your time with us.
Contact
Get in touch with us.
If you'd like to speak to us about a course or would just like some advice we want to hear from you. If you can't find the email address you need please use the contact us form at the bottom of the page and we'll get in touch using your preferred method.