Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
HTQs are technical qualifications that employers have helped develop so you can get the right training and skills you need to succeed at work.
HTQs are an alternative to apprenticeships or degrees. They may suit you if you want a more practical, employer-led study programme.
You can study HTQs full time or part time. They are usually taught at colleges, universities or independent training providers.
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Say hello to higher technical qualifications. These are level 4 and 5 qualifications such as HNDs and foundation degrees that sit between A and T levels and degrees that have been independently approved against the knowledge and skills that employers say they need.
Higher technical qualifications or HTQs can lead to high skilled, highly paid jobs in a wide range of sectors, giving you a step up in your chosen career or further study or a trusted route to help your workforce get the skills they need.
First higher technical qualifications in digital qualifications taught from 2022 cover jobs like network engineer, software developer and data analyst.
2023's new HTQs cover health and science and construction, covering jobs such as nursing associates, sports coach, construction site supervisor or quantity surveyor. The full rollouts of all occupations will be complete in 2025.
HTQs are being taught in further education colleges, universities, institutes of technology and independent training providers across the country giving learners choice and flexibility in how and where they study.
We want higher technical education to be a prestigious and popular choice to get ahead and HTQs will be a high quality option alongside apprenticeships and degrees. With HTQs, learners and employers can have confidence in courses that provide the skills they need to succeed.
Look out for the approved qualifications quality mark logo and ask your local college or training provider about higher technical qualifications. Find out more at these websites.
Approved HTQs
Approved HTQs are new and existing level 4 and 5 qualifications approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Find out what the different qualification levels mean.
There are many different types of HTQs, such as:
- higher national diplomas
- higher national certificates
- foundation degrees
- higher education diplomas
Not all diplomas, certificates and foundation degrees are approved HTQs. Look out for the HTQ logo or banner which will always show on approved qualifications.
Available subjects
HTQs in digital occupations are now being taught in a variety of subjects leading to careers such as network engineer, software developer and data analyst.
From September 2023, new HTQs in construction and health and science will also be available.
View HTQ subjects available now and in the future.
Starting a HTQ
To start a HTQ, you’ll need to:
- be aged 18 or over
- live in England
You can apply for a HTQ while you’re still at school.
Entry requirements
Each educational provider sets their own entry requirements.
The grades or qualifications you’ll need to have will depend on the type of course you’re applying for.
Tuition fees and funding
Tuition fees vary depending on the course. They’re likely to cost from around £7,000 to £9,250 a year for a 1 or 2 year course.
You may be eligible for funding from student finance or a scholarship, grant or bursary. This will depend on your circumstances and the type of HTQ you’re studying.
Work placements
Work placements are not usually needed on a HTQ except in some professions.
However, many courses do offer you practical skills and experience through:
- workshops
- labs
- work experience
After your HTQ
After completing your HTQ, you can:
- look for a job in your chosen career
- go on to further study, such as getting a degree
- volunteer to help build your skills and experience
Search and apply for HTQs
You can use UCAS to search and apply for HTQ courses.
Alternatively, you can ask your local college or training provider.
You can also view a spreadsheet of HTQ providers on GOV.UK.
Search and apply for HTQs on UCAS
Special educational needs (SEND) advice
You can get education advice if you're disabled or have special educational needs.
It may help you choose what you'd like to do next.