There are many courses, degrees, and qualifications available for international students. Understanding the differences is important for your decision-making. If you want a study path that focuses on practical skills and is career-oriented, a vocational course or degree could be a good option. In this article, we explain what a vocational course is, what vocational degrees mean, vocational subject options and the types of careers or professions you can pursue.
- What are vocational courses?
- What are some of the most popular vocational courses?
- What qualification types are awarded for vocational courses?
- Why study for a vocational degree?
What are vocational courses?
A vocational course or qualification combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for a specific profession or trade. A vocational course ensures students enter the workplace and industry with the required knowledge. A vocational course is not to be confused with a professional degree. Professional degrees take longer to complete, have more academic content, and focus on developing student knowledge rather than an employment outcome.
Vocational qualifications and degrees have sometimes been seen as less valuable or prestigious than other degrees, such as academic or professional degrees. However, this isn’t accurate and much depends on the level of the vocational course and your objectives. Some vocational courses are the equivalent of an undergraduate degree or even a postgraduate programme. If you prefer to learn in a practical environment, a vocational degree might be ideal compared to more traditional academic courses.
Discover more about the best vocational courses for employment.
What are some of the most popular vocational courses?
There are many vocational subjects and specialisations available to study. Selecting a qualification will depend on your interests, abilities and career aspirations. Qualifications are studied at universities, colleges and specialised institutions or organisations. Always ensure that your institution is accredited and registered before pursuing a course. Some of the most popular vocational courses for international students include:
- Hospitality
- Culinary arts
- Digital marketing
- Accounting
- Social work
- Aviation
- Travel and tourism
- Graphic design
- Fashion design
- Nursing
Some institutions focus on offering vocation-oriented qualifications with a focus on particular industry skills. For example, the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is renowned for its degrees in food and hospitality management. Qualifications include associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in numerous areas, including applied food studies, culinary science, food business management, and wine and beverage management. Another example is the Media Design School specialises in creative and digital technology courses. Some fields the institution is known for are game design, graphic design, 3D animation and VFX.
Get more information and insights on how to choose a course.
What qualification types are awarded for vocational courses?
Vocational courses and degrees are available at different study levels, and the type of qualification you receive will also depend on the subject area you select. Qualification types also differ between study destinations, but there are some similarities. The most common types of vocational qualifications include:
Diploma
Diplomas provide students with practical training and work experience. There are four levels of a diploma. These are foundation, higher, progression and advanced. Diplomas typically take less than a year to complete but usually last longer than certificates. A standard diploma is the equivalent of five GCSEs (or equivalent), at grades D to C.
Advanced Diploma
An advanced diploma is the equivalent of two A-levels, and an extended diploma is equivalent to three. To be accepted onto this type of course, you will typically need four or five GCSEs (or equivalent), at grades A* to C.
Associate degree
An associate degree is an undergraduate qualification usually equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. These qualifications focus on giving students the academic and technical knowledge needed for employment or additional study. Associate degrees are mostly offered in the USA and Canada but may be available in other destinations as well.
BTEC
A BTEC is a specialist vocational qualification designed to prepare students for the workplace. This qualification is usually offered in the UK. Unlike degree courses, BTECs typically use coursework and practical assessments rather than essay writing and exams. If you have a BTEC qualification and want to apply for an undergraduate degree afterwards, you must check with the university/college as they may prefer A-levels. BTEC qualifications are also internationally recognised, which is useful if you are applying to study abroad or for further study.
NVQ
An NVQ or national vocational qualification is recognised by employers globally. This qualification provides students with practical skills and knowledge to prepare for a specific career. NVQs can be based in school, college, university, or the workplace. There are five levels of NVQs, from entry-level (ideal for those without previous knowledge or qualifications) up to level five (students looking to gain expertise or enter into senior management). While there is no specific time limit when studying an NVQ, most level one and level two NVQs take around a year to complete. Some even choose to study an NVQ while working full-time or part-time to enter a new industry or to upskill.
- NVQ Level 1: Equivalent to 3-4, GCSE’s (grades D-G)
- NVQ Level 2: Equivalent to 4-5, GCSE’s (grades A*-C)
- NVQ Level 3: Equivalent to two A-levels
- NVQ Level 4: Higher Education certificate/BTEC
- NVQ Level 5: Higher education diploma/foundation degree
Some common examples of vocational NVQ courses include:
*Qualifications have been compared with British secondary and higher education equivalents.
Why study for a vocational degree?
Choosing to study for a vocational degree will depend on your objectives and motivations. Vocational qualifications are excellent for gaining experience, skills, and knowledge, helping you progress to a career or enter a profession. Additionally, they can be a pathway to further study at a higher level. Some of the major advantages of pursuing a vocational degree include:
- Vocational qualifications take less time to complete than undergraduate qualifications like bachelor’s degrees. They also offer greater time flexibility.
- You may pay significantly less in tuition fees for a vocational course or degree.
- Vocational courses and degrees are comprehensive and usually allow career entry upon completion without needing additional study.
- Vocational education is wide-ranging, with access to many career paths and industries.
- Qualifications are often recognised or accredited by professional bodies globally.
If you’re trying to decide if a vocational course or degree is right for you, consider a few elements. Have a close look at the course curriculum and structure. See if this aligns with your career plans and if there are opportunities for work experience during your course. Research the reputation of the institution you want to study at and verify the programme quality. This can be done by reading reviews and speaking with prospective employers and alumni. Most importantly, match your interests, personality and skills with an appropriate course.
Now that you understand more about vocational courses, you may want to explore additional helpful information for your study journey. Discover more about the most in-demand jobs in the UK and the USA and whether students should work part-time while studying.
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