Where Next: Who Applies to Level 4 and 5 Qualifications?

This research is the first to shine a light on the motivation and experiences of applicants to HNCs, HNDs, Foundation Degrees and more at this level through UCAS.

Higher education qualifications at Levels 4 and 5 have long been a part of post-18 education in the UK, providing opportunities for adults of all ages to gain higher-level knowledge and skills in further education colleges, universities and some training providers. Historically popular with more mature, part-time learners, and usually with a strong vocational focus, these qualifications have been acknowledged by successive governments as vital to achieving both economic growth and social mobility.

Despite this, and in contrast with many other countries, learner numbers have been in general decline. Action to address this decline must centre on good evidence – including a deeper understanding of the interests and motivations of those who choose to study these qualifications. Such action must also take into account a backdrop of financial pressures for both higher education  providers and potential HE applicants.

We have worked with UCAS to explore what their existing data has to say about the preferences and behaviours of their applicants to Level 4 and 5 courses, and to give those young people a voice through a new survey. While this population is only about half of all Level 4 and 5 learners, it represents an important group of young people who are often looking for something different from the traditional bachelor’s degree.

since the publication of the Sainsbury Review in 2016, one of Gatsby’s objectives is to strengthen the place of higher technical education at Levels 4 and 5 in England. Increasing participation and ensuring good outcomes is a long-term endeavour, one that extends beyond the typical political cycle of governments. The recent introduction of Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), and the elevation in status of some providers to become Institutes of Technology, have been significant moves in the right direction.

Equally important is the continued implementation and support of the Gatsby Benchmarks for Good Career Guidance in schools and colleges, to help young people understand, and have meaningful encounters with, the full range of higher education providers and the courses they offer.

This report provides invaluable insights into Level 4 and 5 learners, and it is great to see UCAS commit to using these insights to extend and deepen the support they give young people navigating the complex and often-changing world of options beyond 18. We hope that other organisations can make a similar commitment, and collectively recognise Level 4-5 education as a distinctive and crucial part of an inclusive tertiary system in the UK.

Download the full report here.