There are two types of qualification which can be taken at further education (FE) colleges, universities, in the workplace or at home. These are either academic or vocational (directed towards a particular job or profession) qualifications.
There are various levels of qualifications which can be studied:
- Standard grade, higher and advanced higher are usually studied at school but also offered at FE colleges.
- Degree courses are usually studied at university. Courses are offered in a wide range of academic subjects such as English and History and vocational areas such as Engineering and Law.
- Postgraduate courses for students who already have a degree and wish to add to their knowledge and skill base. Some of these are vocational and required for qualification in a profession, others are academic.
- Access courses which give an entry route in to degree courses for mature students.
It is important to seek advice from a careers advisor before committing yourself to a study route. Check first that your goal is realistic and that your proposed study route will lead you to that particular career or educational goal.