What is an HTQ?
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are level 4 or 5 qualifications first introduced in 2022 as an alternative to apprenticeships or degrees. They have been nationally recognised as particularly relevant for people wanting to progress into roles like nursing associate, software developer, marketing executive, youth justice practitioner or space engineering technician. These are just some of the roles designated as 'higher technical occupations' by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE)
Structure and content
IfATE awards the status of HTQ to regulated qualifications - including foundation degrees, Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas - whose content aligns to the occupational standards that employers have helped IfATE to develop. HTQs are also designed in collaboration with employers. The name and the logo for HTQs can only be applied to approved qualifications. This is meant to give potential learners - and their future employers - the confidence that these qualifications provide the skills and knowledge that employers want.
As the content of HTQs is based on the same occupational standards as higher level apprenticeships, they may suit those who prefer a classroom-based route into higher level roles, or who cannot find an available apprenticeship. They have also been designed to provide a progression route for young people who started with a T Level or other technical qualification at Level 3 and want to continue into higher education but in a technical way.
Where and how to apply
Many HTQs are available in further education colleges, as well as universities and Institutes of Technology. They are shorter than bachelor's degrees, and often available part-time. They will often have more flexible entry requirements, making them an option for adult returners to education. Adults may want to explore how prior learning at work can be recognised for entry on to an HTQ.
Applications for full time courses can be made through UCAS or directly through the HTQ provider. For part-time courses, students can search on UCAS but applications are made directly through the provider. Students on HTQs have the same eligibility for tuition fee loans and maintenance loans as students on bachelor's degrees (although HTQs shorter than a year are instead funded through Advanced Learner Loans).
Progression
HTQs enable progression to high skilled employment or further study. In many cases, students who have successfully completed an HTQ can 'top up' to a Level 6 bachelor's degree, and in some cases enter an accelerated degree apprenticeship. If this is important to a potential learner, they should enquire directly with the provider as to what arrangements are in place for onward progression.
