Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

We are incredibly proud that our courses have been awarded Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) status by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. 

• What is a HTQ?

  Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are level 4 and 5 qualifications (such as Higher National Certificates/Diplomas, foundation degrees and similar technical programmes) that have been approved as meeting employer-led standards for specific occupations. They are designed to provide the specialist technical knowledge and practical skills that employers need, supporting progression into skilled employment, career development, and/or further study.

  HTQs focus on real-world application, industry-relevant content and strong links to the workplace. Many programmes include opportunities for work-based learning, employer projects or placements, helping students build confidence and experience alongside their academic learning. They can offer a flexible and cost-effective route into higher-level technical careers, with options to study full-time or part-time depending on the programme.

  An HTQ can be a great choice if you want to:

  • Gain a recognised technical qualification aligned to employer needs
  • Develop job-ready skills for a specific sector or occupation
  • Progress into skilled employment or move up in your current role
  • Use a level 4 or 5 qualification as a stepping stone to a full degree

  Learn more about HTQ Degrees.

• Who are HTQs for?

  Higher Technical Qualifications are for you if you are:

  • Aged 18 and over
  • Looking to retrain or upskill
  • Focused on gaining the knowledge and practical experience needed for a skilled job
  • A more practical learner 
  • Excited about studying an employer-led course
  • Interested in progressing to further study or training

  Need help accessing the skills you need to get the job you want? Gain skills for life with support from the government.

• What can I study?

  The first approved Digital courses below were delivered from September 2022:

  • FdSc Cyber Security 
  • FdSc Health Care Practice and Intervention 
  • FdSc Leadership Principles in Health and Social Care
  • FdA Film and Media Production
  • FdA Policing the Community and Criminology 
  • FdA Human Resource Management
  • FdA Early Childhood Studies
  • Cert. HE Housing
  • CMI Diploma in Operational Management 

• Benefits of employer engagement

  We have developed strong links with employers to offer high quality technical courses that are designed to provide training that reflects the local needs of businesses, supporting them to build a qualified workforce.

  HTQs are a high-quality alternative to other popular experience-focused routes, such as apprenticeships, traineeships or degrees.