Get the skills employers are hungry for
Achieving a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) from a Scottish college is a great way to stand out in a competitive job market and prepare for a successful career.
Learn more about HN qualifications ›Get the hands-on experience and industry-approved skills
Higher National (HN) Qualification
HNC (SCQF Level 7) or HND (SCQF Level 8) are qualifications that provide you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that employers crave. They also prepare you for the next stage of your educational journey - if you’re considering further study before entering the workforce.
There’s a wide range of subjects to choose from, including nursing, accounting, video production, pharmacy, animal care, and computer science.
HNCs usually take one year to complete, while HNDs generally take two years. Many colleges and training providers also offer flexible study options, including part-time courses.
Find your course ›
Career Preparation
Knowledge and transferable skills that employers want
A Pathway to a Degree
Direct entry into the second or third year of a university degree programme
Flexible Study Options
Full-time, part-time, day release, evening, or distance learning
Created by Experts
Developed in partnership with colleges, universities, and industry
Trusted
Acknowledged by employers, colleges, universities, and professional bodies
Recognised by professional bodies
Some HNDs can provide exam exemptions or membership entry
Where to find HN courses
Explore the map below to view colleges across Scotland offering HNCs and HNDs. You can also find HN subjects available at each college on their website.
Having trouble with the map?
Click here to view a full list of our colleges and their websites
“Applying for the HND was an easy decision, and I can truly say I’ve enjoyed every minute.”
Coby Keith, previous HND Sports Coaching & Development student
HN learner stories
Sarah Stables – HNC Film and TV
Before starting her HNC, Sarah had no prior experience with filming equipment. Throughout her studies, she developed skills in camera operation, sound, motion graphics, and editing, gaining hands-on experience that allowed her to refine her interests while becoming proficient across various disciplines.
Sarah is currently working on two short films set to begin production later this year. She will also be working at the Scottish Screenwriters' Festival in September 2025 for the second consecutive year.
Sarah’s film and TV education pathway:
- HNC in Film and TV at New College Lanarkshire (NCL)
- HND in Television (NCL)
- BA in Filmmaking and Scriptwriting (NCL, validated by the University of the West of Scotland)
Coby Keith – HND Sports Coaching & Development
Sports has been Coby’s passion since school, which drove his decision to study an HND in Sports Coaching and Development.
The HND provided Coby with valuable hands-on experience, volunteering opportunities, and a solid foundation, all of which have prepared him for university, where he is currently studying.
He is also applying the skills gained from his HND through a part-time coaching role at Aberdeen Sports Village. Coby aspires to pursue a career in sports development upon completing his studies.
His achievements so far include winning NESCol’s Time to Shine Award and receiving a nomination for the Aberdeen Sports Awards 2024.
“Applying for the HND was an easy decision, and I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”
Coby’s educational pathway in sports:
- NPA in Exercise and Fitness Leadership (Sixth-year school-college course)
- HND in Sports Coaching and Development (North East Scotland College, NESCol)
- BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching (direct entry into the third year, Robert Gordon University)
