Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme
Many universities and other educational establishments have signed up to a Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS), in which candidates need only commit themselves to individual short modules. These can then be accumulated and credited against later degree or diploma studies. CATS modules can also be transferred between different learning providers and will be acceptable to all those participating in the scheme.
CATS offers a useful way to start studying without making a long term commitment or losing credit for any passes achieved." A national system to support this type of credit transfer and give recognition to what learners have achieved is being developed. This is called the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and you can get more information about it by visiting the SCQF website at www.scqf.org.uk.
Higher National Certificates
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) is broken down into a number of units that are available in a wide range of subjects. The full qualification is achieved once sufficient units are obtained to meet national criteria. Study is normally full or part-time at college.
The HNC is a respected qualification in its own right, particularly since it often has a practical slant and doesn't just involve theory.
Higher National Diplomas
The Higher National Diploma (HND) is also based on units of study and is one of the highest qualifications awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. It is often used as a stepping stone to go on to university and is an acceptable entry qualification for a wide range of degrees, sometimes providing subject or exam exemptions in the first year of study at university.
The HND is a respected qualification in its own right, particularly since it often has a practical slant and doesn't just involve theory.
University degrees
University degrees normally require three or four years of full-time study, but this will usually take be longer part-time. The last year or two of a four-year degree is often taken as Honours years, when study is taken to a higher level than for an Ordinary degree.
Some degrees are known as "sandwich courses" if they include a period of work experience, with class-based study at either end.
Postgraduate qualifications
These cover postgraduate certificates and diplomas, masters degrees and other higher level degrees such as doctorates. Entrants will usually have completed a first degree, but relevant experience or other qualifications are sometimes accepted.
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