College course
Complete year 1 (HNC) or year 2 (HND) in a local college.
Discover how to use a college qualification as a stepping stone into a university degree.
Going straight to university isn’t always the right path for everyone. Whether you don’t feel quite ready or don’t yet have the grades you need, a college course can help you get there. This is called an articulation route. You’ll use your college qualifications – such as an HNC or HND as an alternative to standard entry requirements.
Complete year 1 (HNC) or year 2 (HND) in a local college.
Transition directly into the 2nd or 3rd year of a related university programme.
Scotland's 12-level framework makes comparing qualifications and mapping pathways easier.
Know your SCQF level
Articulation is the process of using your college qualification to move into university without starting from first year. Articulation routes - sometimes called Advanced Standing or Direct Entry - let you enter a university course in year two or three.
If you follow an articulation route, there’s no repetition in what you study. This means you can achieve an honours degree in four years or an ordinary degree in three years.
An HNC is a one-year college course. It’s the same level as the first year of university.
An HND is a two-year course that’s the same level as the second year of university. You’ll study an HNC in the first year of your HND.
The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level shows how advanced a qualification is. It helps you compare different levels of study.
For example:
No, completing your HNC or HND does not guarantee you a place at university.
Universities set their own entry requirements, so these may vary. Requirements can include achieving certain grades in assessments or completing specific modules.
Some courses may also ask for things required of all applicants, such as an interview, audition, or portfolio.
You will need to apply through UCAS and meet the usual application deadlines.