What is a Certificate of Higher Education and How Do I Obtain One?

A Certificate of Higher Education is the first step toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. When looking to pursue higher education, a Certificate of Higher Education symbolises that you have completed the equivalent education to the first year of an undergraduate degree. Completing this certificate indicates that you may want to continue to your bachelor’s or master’s degree. It shows you have the skill set to take higher education classes successfully. 

Learn more about what qualifications mean in the UK and which level you need to complete to obtain the job you’re searching for.

What is a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)?

According to the University of Essex Online, a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) equates to 120 Level 4 credits, equivalent to the first level of a bachelor's degree [1]. This certificate takes between 6 and 24 months to complete. 

Everyone’s timeline for completing a CertHE or a bachelor’s degree is different and can change depending on the number of courses and credits you take at any given time. 

At the undergraduate level, you can choose three courses: those leading to a degree, those contributing to certificates or diplomas, and those combining professional and academic experience [2].

What are Certificates of Higher Education used for?

CertHEs are often the first step toward pursuing a degree. With the Certificate, you display knowledge of higher education subjects and courses and an interest in continuing your schooling. 

Per the University of Oxford, a CertHE includes 60 to 80 credit accumulation and transfer schedule (CATS) points in modules in your main area of focus and another 30 to 50 credits you earn by completing courses outside your main subject area. You also earn points for completing the first-year introductory course, for an average of 120 CATS points, to get the certificate, equal to completing your first year of full-time study [3].

CertHEs are not the same as a degree, but you can apply the credits to a degree programme, making it easier to receive one. You may not be able to get a job in your career field with the CertHE itself, but it might get you on track to break into your field or a university degree programme.

How to obtain a Certificate of Higher Education

To obtain a CertHE, you must complete certain qualification levels and secondary schooling. The CertHE is typically awarded in Level 4 after partially completing your bachelor’s degree or the first batch of credits received following general secondary schooling.

After receiving the CertHE, you may continue your education at Level 5 to obtain your bachelor’s degree. After Level 4, only two levels remain for completing a degree. 

What do different qualification levels mean?

The UK has eight total qualification levels. Levels 1 through 3 can be completed in secondary school, while Levels 4 through 8 are optional for individuals interested in higher education. 

Entry level

The most standard qualification level is Entry-Level, which requires little to no extra education to apply for. With Entry-Level, you may also qualify for Level 1 or 2 roles that meet your qualifications. Entry-level individuals have a basic understanding of necessary skills and an Entry-Level Certificate. 

Level 1

When you have Level 1 qualifications, you likely have a General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) and have reached this qualification through years 10 and 11 of secondary school. 

Level 2

Similarly to Level 1, you study and complete Level 2 during years 10 and 11 of secondary school. At this level, you may also complete a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). Qualifications include awards, certificates, and diplomas. 

Level 3

Level 3 is generally completed during years 12 and 13 and encourages continuing your education at a sixth-form college or college. With Level 2, you can further your schooling by obtaining a Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education. 

Level 4

CertHEs are a qualification of Level 4. It is the first step to a degree or specialised studies.

Level 5

With Level 5, you can continue higher education by studying at a university to complete your degree. At this stage, you receive a Diploma of Higher Education.

Level 6

Completing Level 6 qualifications typically means obtaining a degree from a university or college. Level 6 qualifications include degree apprenticeships, graduate diplomas, and certificates.

Level 7

Level 7 qualifications indicate that you have completed a postgraduate degree in your chosen study area. 

Level 8

Level 8 qualifications may be right for you if you want to pursue the highest form of education. You receive a doctorate or PhD in your field of study at this level. You may also pursue a Level 8 award, diploma, or certificate.

CertHE vs. DipHE: What’s the difference?

Both options offer standalone qualifications that can boost careers even if you don’t pursue additional education. CertHEs and Diplomas of Higher Education (DipHE) offer a stepping stone if you choose to continue earning your degree; however, each has different requirements.  

To get a CertHE, you must complete one year of full-time study or 120 credits. It’s a Level 4 qualification. DipHE is a Level 5 qualification that takes two years and 240 credits. It is comparable to an associate’s degree in the United States. After obtaining a DipHE in your chosen area of study, you could then go on to complete your bachelor’s degree.

Next steps

Obtaining a Certificate of Higher Education is a great way to expand your education and knowledge for your future career. You can choose from various degrees, courses, and Professional Certificates offered on Coursera that may help you as you pursue higher education.