BTEC Higher Nationals
Built for the real world
BTEC Higher Nationals are BTEC Level 4 and 5 qualifications, equivalent to the first two years of a university degree.
Higher education that works for you
BTEC Higher Nationals, like the Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND), are career-focused qualifications equal to the first two years of an undergraduate degree or foundation degree.
After you finish, you can start working or top up to a full degree. There are over 300 universities worldwide that accept BTEC Higher Nationals.
Many students choose this path because it offers real, practical advantages:
- Save money and reduce student debt
- Study locally and stay close to home
- Build the real-world skills employers are looking for
- Top-up to a full university degree when the time’s right for you
Whether you're looking to launch your career sooner or take a flexible route into Higher Education, BTEC Higher Nationals put you in control.
Download the student guide to explore your next steps and see how far a BTEC Higher National can take you.
Why BTEC Higher Nationals?

The smart way to get hired.
BTEC Higher Nationals are created with employers, so you build the knowledge and skills that matter, and are ready to start, not stall.

Different route. Same destination.
Looking for an alternative to university? Higher Nationals offer a faster, more flexible way to get qualified. When you finish, you can go straight into a skilled job or top up to a full degree later.

Real learning, real people, real support.
Smaller classes mean more support from tutors who know you and classmates who’ve got your back. You’ll be more than just a name on a list.

And students love it.
90% of students say their BTEC Higher National experience is positive*. That’s not just a number, it’s real people finding a career path that works.*Source: BTEC Higher Nationals Discovery Research