Higher Education Qualifications Explained

Whatever your starting point we have a qualification to suit you. From Level 3 Access courses designed to prepare you for university, Level 5 HND, right up to post graduate teaching qualifications.

Access courses are designed for those who wish to undertake a university level course but did not gain the qualifications needed for entry whilst at school. Each Access programme includes units in several subjects and when put together, all prepare students for the study of a particular subject at degree level. Access courses are designed to help you get back into education and the course tutors will provide all of the guidance and support required to achieve these goals.

Level 3 – Access to Higher Education

We offer access courses in:

Business
Computing
Education
Health & Caring Professions
Nursing & Midwifery
Social Science
Science

Southport College University Centre offers a range of teacher training courses for those looking to teach students age 16 and above. For those first steps towards becoming a teacher, we offer the Award in Education & Training. We also offer the Certificate of Education, or finally for those already holding an honours degree or equivalent, a PGCE.

Award in Education & Training

This qualification is open to all new in service, pre service and pre-employment teachers in the Lifelong Learning Sector or suitably qualified people who wish to enter the profession. It is an introductory programme aimed at providing a basic minimum standard for everyone entering the teaching profession.

Certificate in Education (Cert Ed)/PGCE

The Certificate in Education (CertEd) and Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) are nationally recognised qualifications for teachers, trainers and tutors in the Further Education and Post-16 Skills Sector. The qualifications are open to all in service, pre-service and pre-employment teachers, trainers and tutors in the Lifelong Learning Sector or suitably qualified people who wish to enter the profession.