Looking for a university or higher level course?

Find out about clearing for 2023

With our dedicated university centres, excellent relationships with employers, and industry-standard facilities, South & City College Birmingham is the destination of choice for hundreds of higher education students who live in Birmingham, Worcestershire, Sandwell, and the surrounding areas.

Our courses are run in partnership with well-regarded institutions including the University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, De Montfort University, and Birmingham Newman University – so no matter what you’d like to specialise in, we can help you to achieve your higher education goals.

You can progress to higher education from your further education course with us, to stay in an environment with staff and students that you are familiar with.

Access to HE

An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a one-year Level 3 qualification that prepares learners without traditional qualifications for study at university. Over 98% of our Access to Higher Education students progress onto a university course.

It’s a fantastic option for those who are looking to earn formal qualifications, change careers or get the most from the career path you are currently on.

See our Access to HE coursesRead more

Higher Technical Qualifications

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) offer a high-quality route for students to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for roles in demand from employers.

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are either new or existing Level 4 and 5 qualifications (such as HNDs/Foundation Degrees/Diploma HE) that have been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education as meeting occupational standards for the relevant sector. These qualifications are aimed at both college and school leavers or those retraining and upskilling.

These qualifications have been developed by awarding bodies in collaboration with employers and businesses so that students get the specific training, knowledge and skills required for their chosen career.

South & City College Birmingham are currently providing HTQs in:

  • HND Computing (Cyber Security)
  • HND Computing (Networking) – Coming Soon
  • HND Computing (Data Analysis) – Coming Soon

HNC (Higher National Certificate)

A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a level 4 vocational qualification that takes one year to complete full-time, or two years part-time. They’re practical-based courses that can prepare you for either work after completion or studies at degree level.

See our University Level Courses

HND (Higher National Diploma)

A Higher National Diploma (HND) is a level 5 vocational qualification provided by higher and further education colleges. It takes two years to complete full-time, or three to four years if you study part-time. HNDs are practical-based courses, ideal for those wanting to enter the workforce or study towards a bachelor’s degree.

See our University Level Courses

BA (Hons)

The Level 6 honours degree is the most common and widely studied undergraduate qualification, with thousands of courses available across the UK. Studying for a Bachelors degree at university will give you an in-depth understanding of one or more subjects.

See our University Level Courses

Student information

If you want to apply, but you are not sure about the course fees or the support we offer, we can answer those questions.

Student portalStudent Life Information

Qualifications explained

Qualifications explained

Choose a level

Choose a level

  • Entry
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6

Entry Level qualifications can assist you in developing your abilities, expanding your knowledge, and increasing your confidence. They’re called ‘certificates’ or ‘awards,’ and they’re available to anyone who wants to earn a recognised qualification. There are no entry requirements. They are available in three different sub-categories, which get progressively more difficult: Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3.

Please note: If you are an International student you can only study from Level 3 and above. 

Level 1 qualifications are the first formal rung on the numbered system of qualifications. They are frequently studied at secondary school in Years 10 and 11. If you’re looking for an introduction into general work and practical hands-on activities, these foundation level courses allow you to gain skills that will help you to earn a job or qualification. Examples of Level 1 qualifications include GCSEs at grades 3, 2 or 1 (previously D, E, F or G), Level 1 Functional or Essential Skills, or Level 1 ESOL.

Please note: If you are an International student you can only study from Level 3 and above. 

See level 1 courses

These qualifications are a step up from Level 1. They provide a more in-depth understanding of a subject. Examples of Level 2 qualifications include GCSE grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5 or 4 (previously grades A*, A, B or C), Level 2 awards, diplomas, or certificates and intermediate apprenticeships.

Please note: If you are an International student you can only study from Level 3 and above. 

See level 2 courses

If you’re planning on going to university, you will need Level 3 qualifications. Study at this level is more advanced, as it prepares you for your future career or further and degree level study. Examples of Level 3 qualifications include: A and AS Levels, Access to Higher Education Diplomas, Advanced Apprenticeships, T Levels and BTEC Level Award/Certificate/Diploma and Extended Diplomas.

Please note: If you are an International student you can only study from Level 3 and above. 

See level 3 courses

A Level 4 qualification could be seen as the equivalent of the first year of a bachelor’s degree. Examples of Level 4 qualifications include: Higher National Certificate (HNC) Certificate of higher education (CertHE), Accounting AAT Diploma, and Higher Apprenticeships.

See level 4 courses

A Level 5 qualification is equivalent to the second year of a bachelor’s degree. Examples of qualifications at Level 5 include: foundation degrees, Higher National Diploma (HND), Chartered Institute of Personnel Development Intermediate Certificate in HR Management, and DET in Post-Compulsory Education and Training.

See level 5 courses

Level 6 refers to qualifications gained at degree level. Examples of Level 6 include: a bachelor’s degree with or without honours, or a degree apprenticeship.

See level 6 courses

Events & Open Days

We run several events throughout the year that allow you to explore your options both in-person and online.

What’s on

Read our student blogs

Catch up on all the latest news, blogs and exciting announcements from across South & City College Birmingham.

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How do I apply?

You can apply on this website, by searching for a course that you want to do. What is important is that you disclose your needs on your application form so that we can assess you and arrange your support before you start your course.

Apply now