With entry to university being increasingly competitive and the financial crisis biting hard, SQA Advanced Qualifications could be the perfect addition to your portfolio.
Developed in partnership with colleges, universities and industry, SQA Advanced Qualifications are globally recognised, short-cycle higher education certificates and diplomas.
The education pathways enable students to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to progress onto further study or directly into employment.
Our customers can choose from 48 courses in a wide range of sectors – perfect for complementing existing provision or meeting local skills needs.
SQA Advanced Qualifications equip students both for work and for continuing education at university in the second or third year. The SQA Advanced Certificate typically takes one year; the SQA Advanced Diploma takes two years. Both options are financially attractive: the cost of the SQA diploma is significantly less than typical university tuition fees for two years.
Diploma to Degree
SQA’s Diploma to Degree programme is a proven route for students to progress onto the second or third year of an undergraduate degree, following the successful completion of an SQA Advanced Certificate or Diploma. We have over 50 University partners around the world who recognise the qualifications for advanced entry and provide students with a quality learning experience and the option to study for their degree in the UK or internationally.
“We are proud that our SQA Advanced Qualifications are meeting the needs of employers and enabling advanced entry into many undergraduate degree programmes in universities and higher education institutions across the world,” says SQA National Manager Gillian Hepburn.
“Achieving an SQA Advanced Certificate or SQA Advanced Diploma is one of the best ways to develop skills and knowledge in a chosen sector. It gives learners studying with organisations delivering these courses the flexibility to go straight into the workforce or advance in their current role with skills and knowledge for their chosen career or progress on to a degree programme.”
St David’s College & SQA
In 2020, SQA partnered with St David’s College, a small secondary independent school in North Wales with a highly regarded Design and Technology Department.
The school delivers the SQA Advanced Certificate in CADD (Computer Aided Draughting and Design) and was delighted with the smooth onboarding process; ‘The approvals process was excellent and well supported. As a ‘newbie’ I have a lot of contact with SQA and have to admit that the service is excellent’ says Martin O’Leary, Head of Department.
He goes on to explain that the SQA Advanced Certificate in CADD has helped to elevate the study requirements for his students. ‘The units that we deliver are diverse and the level is demanding. I also like the fact that we have the freedom to develop the units as we progress, and I will be doing this once I have become settled into the course. Universities and employers also like the qualification, and I am looking forward to working with them as our syllabus develops.’
In addition to our simple onboarding process, we also provide our centres with a wide variety of support materials for our Advanced Certificates and Diplomas, providing detailed guidance on a range of topics.
SQA Regional Manager Tammy Willett added ‘It has been a pleasure working alongside St David’s College over the past few years. To see our HE level qualifications being delivered in a ‘non-typical’ HE setting demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of our provision. It is so encouraging that industry not only values these qualifications, but that the students also come out with real-world skills to help them build their future careers.’
About SQA
We’re an Ofqual and Qualifications Wales recognised provider and a global leader in education and training, offering qualifications and related services to employers, training providers, colleges and many more customers. With over 100 years’ experience, we help organisations to realise their potential and achieve their ambitions.
Discover the power of SQA Advanced Qualifications https://bit.ly/3UQBAIV
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