A complete guide to Certificates of Higher Education
Want to take your first steps into higher education? Learn how you can with this in-depth CertHE guide.
Essentially the same as completing the first year of a bachelor’s degree, a CertHE is a one-year level 4 qualification. It’s the most basic degree level and is the perfect way to get your foot in the door if this is your first time in higher education.
What’s great about these qualifications is that they can not only help you get onto a bachelor’s course, but you can even use them as credit towards your degree. So, with a completed CertHE, you can enter year two of a bachelor’s degree programme—especially if you’ve really developed a taste for the subject.
Browse this guide and you’ll learn what a CertHE is, what you can do with it after you earn one, and how it can help you develop professional skills and prepare for further study.
Subjects you can study for a CertHE qualification
You can study for a Certificate of Higher Education across a range of subjects at a university. Each CertHE is tailored to the specific subject area and can lead to various career paths or further studies. Here we’ve listed some of the popular subjects for CertHEs, but there’s a really wide range of options out there. So, why not do your own research today and see if there’s a CertHE in a subject you love?
Healthcare
On this CertHE, you’ll develop essential skills to meet the demands of today’s healthcare sector. Explore key topics such as safeguarding, healthcare regulation, and health promotion whilst building the necessary knowledge to provide excellent patient care.
Business management
You’ll study business operations and responsibilities across a national and global scale. This type of CertHE is all about developing a firm understanding of business and management and gaining insights into how businesses operate and thrive.
Law
During a law CertHE, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to apply legal principles to practical scenarios, as you explore legal rights and responsibilities and key criminal and civil law concepts. You’ll also develop an understanding of local legal systems, how laws are made, and how they impact society.
Cyber security
A cyber security CertHE will likely cover everything from network security and programming languages to ethical hacking. You’ll learn how to protect sensitive information, prevent cyber attacks, and respond to security breaches.
Languages
This CertHE is all about developing your language skills and cultural understanding. Learn a language and explore the history, culture, and current affairs of the countries that speak the language.
Film and media studies
Explore the fundamentals of film and media production through hands-on camera, editing, and audio work. Develop the language to critically analyse existing media, and work towards creating your own narratives and building a portfolio.
Why earn a Certificate of Higher Education online?
Many accredited universities and colleges are now offering fully online CertHEs, giving students the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, at their own pace. If you’re thinking about studying online, it’s worth considering the following points:
Find your perfect CertHE
With countless CertHEs available across fields such as healthcare, psychology, law, languages, and more, it’s never been easier for students to choose a programme that aligns with their interests and career goals.
Learn whenever and wherever you want
One of the primary advantages of online education is the flexibility it offers. Students can often set their own schedules, allowing them to balance their studies with work or personal commitments. This makes online undergraduate study ideal for those who may not be able to attend traditional on-campus classes.
Get access to the right resources
Many online CertHEs provide access to the same resources available to on-campus students, including online libraries, academic advice, and technical support. Students can also engage with faculty and peers through discussion boards, live lectures, and group projects.
Save time and money
Certificates of Higher Education are more affordable than a traditional bachelor’s since they make up only the first year of a full degree. What’s more, online qualifications eliminate costs associated with commuting, housing, and on-campus fees.
Unlock new opportunities
Generally speaking, individuals with a qualification earn more than those without, making it a valuable investment in your future. Many employers recognise and value qualifications, especially when earned from accredited institutions. Plus, an online CertHE provides a pathway to further study.
Gain essential skills
Completing an online CertHE can help students develop valuable technical skills, such as proficiency in digital communication tools, learning management systems (LMS), and online collaboration platforms, which are increasingly important in today’s workforce.
Your route to a Certificate of Higher Education
Earning a CertHE is a significant milestone that can unlock a wide range of career opportunities and pave the way for further studies. By familiarising yourself with the essential steps and requirements, you can effectively navigate your path to achieving this qualification. Below are the key steps to successfully obtaining a Certificate of Higher Education:
Research
Identify your subject of interest and research universities that offer relevant CertHEs. Consider factors like reputation, accreditation, and course units.
Apply
Ensure you meet the entry qualifications, which typically includes an A-level and a GCSE in English with an A to C grade. Then, complete the relevant application process for your chosen institution, making sure to submit all of the required documents.
Accept an offer
If you’re offered a place, follow the university’s instructions to accept the offer and confirm your enrolment.
Study
Attend classes, complete assessments and coursework, participate in group projects, and engage in any practical training as required.
Graduate
After fulfilling all course requirements, attend your graduation ceremony to officially receive your Certificate of Higher Education.
Where a Certificate of Higher Education can take you
A Certificate of Higher Education can enhance your knowledge, skills, career prospects and earning potential in today’s competitive job market. Here are some common paths you can pursue with a CertHE qualification:
Further studies
You may end up deciding you want to upgrade your qualification to a Higher National Diploma (HND), which would be equivalent to the second year of a bachelor’s degree. Or, you might even decide to go for a full bachelor’s degree.
A new career
Whether you’re looking to get into an industry or change careers, a CertHE can provide you with the knowledge and practical skills you need to get your foot in the door. Plus, it’s a great sign to an employer you’re serious about working in the industry.
Apprenticeships and internships
Earning a Certificate of Higher Education can open the door to career opportunities such as paid internships and apprenticeships. Armed with new knowledge from your programme, you can put your skills to practical use and build a CV that reflects your growing expertise.
Entrepreneurship
Graduates can start their own businesses or work in startups, applying their skills and knowledge to create new ventures.
Find your Certificate of Higher Education
Common questions about Certificates of Higher Education
Want help choosing the right degree?
Complete this form and we’ll share guides, insights, and top courses to help make your degree journey that much clearer.
