HND is the acronym for Higher National Diploma. Like a bachelor’s degree, it is a higher education qualification that is obtainable in many countries. It was introduced in England and Wales in 1920, and since then, other countries like Argentina, Malta, Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya have adopted it. Generally, the grade boundaries for this certificate vary according to the institution’s requirements.
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What is HND?
In Nigeria, HND typically takes about two years. Although, it can take longer if the student decides to take the part-time route. It is also a continuation of the OND (Ordinary National Diploma), also called the National Diploma. These programs are offered by polytechnics. The National Board for Technical Education is the regulatory body for polytechnics and other technical institutions.
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- Duration of study: a minimum of 2 years
- Admission requirements: OND certificate plus one year of relevant work experience.
- Content: Students get access to practical knowledge and are taught vocational subjects and other general subjects. The curriculum can be found here.
- Benefits: Holders of this certificate can apply for jobs like degree holders, and they can also apply for master’s degrees, which can begin in the 3rd year of a related bachelor’s program.
Is an HND the same as a Bachelor’s Degree?
A HND certificate is equal to two years of a Bachelor’s degree. Therefore, those seeking to further their HND into a Bachelor’s degree, have to study for 2 years at a university to achieve it.
Can I Move To The UK With An HND Certificate?
It is possible to move to the UK as an HND holder. All that matters is that you meet the requirements and are eligible. You can either get a job or further your studies in the UK as an HND holder too, as long as you are qualified and meet the outlined specifications.
Can I Pursue A Master’s In The UK With An HND Certificate?
Yes, as an international student who wants to pursue a master’s degree abroad, you can pursue a master’s degree in the UK with your HND certificate.
However, it depends on the following factors:
- the level of the HND,
- the subject area of the program, and
- the academic performance of the applicant.
Generally, universities in the UK require a minimum of 2:2 UK Honors degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area for admission to a master’s program. However, some consider HND holders for master’s programs if they have:
- relevant work experience and
- high grades in their HND studies.
Moreover, there are also scholarship opportunities for students who desire to go abroad to study.
Universities In The UK That Accept HND Certificate For Master’s Program
Here are some of the universities in the UK that may consider HND for Masters programs:
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Birmingham City University
- Cardiff Metropolitan University
- Coventry University
- De Montfort University
- Edinburgh Napier University
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- Kingston University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- London South Bank University
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Middlesex University
- Northumbria University
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Teesside University
- University of Bolton
- University of Greenwich
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Salford
List of UK Universities that Accept HND Certificates and Third Class for Masters
Here is a list of UK universities that accept HND Certificates and third-class master’s degrees.
1. University of South Wales
The University of South Wales is notable for its research work and is one of the best in the UK and the world at large. Additionally, the university is known for accepting HND holders and 3rd class degrees for international students looking to gain their master’s at the school.
Furthermore, the school has campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Wrexham. It also has some of the best facilities, such as gymnasiums, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
The university offers courses like:
- Business Management,
- Applied Sciences,
- Engineering and Technology Management,
- Mathematics,
- Psychology
- and Sociology
School website: www.southwales.ac.uk
2. Swansea University
Swansea University is one of the best universities in Wales. The university is known for having a high population of international students, giving it the name “the students’ choice”.
Additionally, the school has a wide range of programs that students can choose from and also receives international students from Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone for admission into its Master’s programs every year.
School website: www.swansea.ac.uk
3. London Metropolitan University
This London-based university is a world-class school that accepts international students from all parts of the world and gives them a chance to network with various experts from all walks of life and fields.
Additionally, the university is known for accepting applicants with third-class degrees from a recognized university. However, the applicants must meet the following criteria:
- One of the requirements is a minimum of three years of full-time relevant work experience after graduation.
- an additional professional qualification.
Note that you can also apply for a master’s with either your HND or third-class degree.
School website: www.londonmet.ac.uk
4. Robert Gordon University
Robert Gordon University is known as the School for All as it has strong ties with West African nations like Nigeria and Ghana. That is a major reason why a large number of its students are Africans.
Additionally, for students looking to apply to this university, the application process is quite straightforward.
School website: www.rgu.ac.uk
5. University College Birmingham
At the University College of Birmingham, you are sure to get admission into their master’s program with just a third-class degree. However, you are only allowed a few selected lists of master’s programs to choose from when you have a third-class degree certificate. These programs are listed under the Masters in Business Program.
6. Edinburgh Napier University
Edinburgh Napier University is located in the capital city of Scotland and was founded in 1964. Graduates from this prestigious university have gone on to become world-beaters and inventors in their various fields. The university is known for having a great atmosphere on campus.
Additionally, the free university offers master’s programs in Business Studies, Engineering, Marketing, and so on.
The requirement for entry is:
- Applicants with HND or 3rd class
- Applicants must have achieved at least 60% in their last two years of study at the undergraduate level.
School website: www.napier.ac.uk
8. University of Bradford
The University of Bradford is one of the best universities in the UK that accepts HND Certificates and 3rd Class for their Master’s program. They also offer a Global Development Scholarship that aims to help international students gain scholarships for free studies.
Additionally, the scholarship scheme has little or no requirements as it aims to alleviate poverty and provide quality education. Hence, it has no care for the class of degree. Therefore, anyone can apply for it.
You can reach out to the university via their site, and once you’re eligible, you can apply with your HND Certificates and 3rd class.
School website: www.bradford.ac.uk
9. University of Kent
The University of Kent provides an easy process for getting a quality education. Hence, it is easy to study. Meaning that it has no long process for application and about a 90% probability of meeting the requirements if you’re serious.
Note that international students can apply for their Master’s program at the University of Kent with their third-class degree, HND certificate, or pass.
School website: www.kent.ac.uk
10. University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth is one of the best institutions in the UK that accepts HND Certificates and 3rd Class for Masters.
Founded in 1992, the university has seen substantial growth and played a part in the education of international students globally.
The school’s official website: www.plymouth.ac.uk
Schools and Universities in Scotland that accept HND and Third class for Masters
Here are some universities in Scotland that may consider HND and Third Class degrees for admission to a Master’s degree program:
- University of Stirling
- University of Abertay, Dundee
- University of the West of Scotland
- Glasgow Caledonian University
Eligibility Criteria To Pursue Masters With An HND Certificate
There are schools in the UK that accept HND holders just the same way they would accept a student with a bachelor’s degree. In these institutions, they often examine standardized tests like the GMAT/GRE with your IELTS/TOEFL before the student can be considered for admission. If a student has excellent scores in these exams and also has relevant work experience, then there is a good chance that they will be considered for admission.
Tips On How To Apply For A Master’s In The UK With An HND Certificate
Having a good grade will increase your chances of studying abroad, although the schools in the UK that accept students with an HND certificate often consider standardized test scores like the GMAT or GRE along with your IELTS or TOEFL. If you plan on pursuing your master’s abroad with your HND certificate, you will first need to evaluate your transcripts. Additionally, you will also send your transcripts to the World Evaluation Sеrvісеѕ (WES) through your school. The three sorts of assessments include:
- Evaluation by Course
This entails a course-by-course qualification assessment. The report recognizes each of the certificates submitted and provides an equivalent for each record. It includes a demonstration of the portrayal of times of learning, courses, credit hours, evaluations, and degrees in the general education system as far as the instructional framework in the UK is concerned. Additionally, it should be noted that schools in the UK use minimum credits and an evaluation point average, or GPA, оn a 4.0 ѕсаlе.
- Evaluation by doсumеnt
This assessment involves the assessment of the lists of educational institutions and educational сrеdеntіаls obtained in a foreign country through the Dосumеnt Credential Evaluation Report. Note that some universities in the UK accept this evaluation exercise.
- Eԛuаlіtу (Prоfісіеnt Wоrk Experience Evaluation)
This assessment is mostly used for migration purposes, and it is for those who want to apply for visas into the UK.
Necessary Documents Needed To Apply For A Master’s In The UK
Below is a list of the necessary documents required to apply for a master’s degree in the UK
- Letters of Recommendation
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized tests like the GRE and GMAT
- Proof of English language proficiency scores like SAT and TOEFL
- Statement of Purpose
- Passport
- Resume or CV
- Mark sheets and pass certificates
- Work experience letters (if any)
- Proof of funds
- Research proposal or any portfolio (for any particular course)
How To Position Yourself For A Scholarship Opportunity As An HND Certificate Holder
As an HND holder, there are various tips you can harness to increase your chances when you want to get a scholarship to further your studies in the UK. Some of them include:
1. Consider getting more certifications:
Whether you are a degree holder or an HND certificate holder, you mustn’t just stop there. Take short specialized courses and get certifications. It aids your personal growth and broadens your knowledge. Doing this communicates dedication and commitment to your field and gives you an edge.
2. Get the relevant work experience:
The scholarship committee considers the applicant’s work experience, so applicants should gain the necessary work experience either through internships, volunteer roles, or other means. It gives you practical experience in your field.
3. Networking:
The importance of networking cannot be overemphasized. Attending career fairs, webinars, and conferences can aid networking as you get to meet other like-minded individuals and get recommendations from them.
Research: Participating in research projects can demonstrate dedication to your chosen field of study, and it gives you an edge when you apply for a scholarship.
4. Prepare an excellent application:
An excellent application goes a long way in determining whether or not you are going to get the scholarship. When applying for post-graduate programs, having an excellent application that properly outlines your strengths, experiences, and achievements so far gives you an advantage during the application process.
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