Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
Employers and awarding bodies have collaborated to develop Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), so you can get the right training and skills that employers are looking for, to succeed at work.
If you’re looking for a more practical, employer led study programme as an alternative to an apprenticeship or degree, our two-year courses have been specifically developed to help you achieve a Level 4 or Level 5 award.
Some are new and others are already being delivered, such as Higher National Certificates (HNCs) at Level 4, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Foundation Degrees (FdAs) at Level 5. The Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education has approved HTQs, so you can get a head start in your career or further study*.
*Not all HNCs, HNDs and Foundation Degrees are approved HTQs, so look out for the logo or banner, which will always show approved qualifications.
School leavers (18+) who are looking for an alternative to degrees or apprenticeships.
Adults who want to upskill and gain a qualification, whether they’re already in employment or want to retrain.
Tuition fees vary depending on the course and provider. Course fees for HTQs at the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College can be found here.
Entry requirements at the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College vary dependant on the course and allow for adults to retrain or upskill.
These can be found in the details of each course.
HTQs are eligible for the higher education student finance offer. This means that if you are studying a HTQ full-time or part-time you will be able to apply for both tuition fee loan and maintenance loan.
HTQ courses that are shorter than an academic year will be eligible for the Advanced Learner Loan, which covers the tuition fee but not maintenance fees.
As employers and businesses have a strong input to the course content, you’ll gain the practical and technical skills that they are looking for, unlocking highly skilled and highly paid jobs, without the commitment of three years of study.
Although work placement is not a mandatory part of a HTQ, at the University Centre we offer you the opportunity to complete a work placement, as well as gaining the practical skills and experience studying in state-of-the-art workshops and labs.
Once you have completed your HTQ, you’ll be ready to jump straight into your chosen career. There are also clear progression pathways to higher-level study or a degree apprenticeship for those who want to complete a degree.
