What are my options for further study?
You can use your HND to transfer onto the first, second or third year of a Bachelors degree depending on how relevant it is to your degree. Acceptance into the final year is more likely if you’ve studied a similar subject and have a good academic history. You’ll probably have to start in the first year if your chosen degree subject differs drastically from your HND. Contact your chosen university in advance of your application to determine the exact year of entry.
To move on to a degree course, you must apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) a year before the programme begins.
As a HND graduate, there may also be opportunities for postgraduate study, but you’ll need to check the course entry requirements. It is widely believed that you need a higher qualification, such as an honours degree, to join a Masters programme – but there are certain courses where relevant work experience is just as highly valued, such as social work and business.
What do other HND graduates do?
Almost a fifth (19%) of recent HND graduates studied business studies, while 7% studied either computer science or electronic and electrical engineering. General engineering (5%) and hospitality, leisure, sport, tourism and transport (4%) were also popular choices.
Almost half of HND graduates were in further study six months after graduation, with the majority (91%) studying towards a first degree.
Destinations data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency
Progressing to Employment after a Business HND?
The skills offered as part of the Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Business can provide graduates with the opportunity to work in many different areas of the business sector. Below are some examples of job roles each qualification could lead to:
| Pathway | Job Roles |
| Accounting and Finance | Chartered Accountant Accounting Technician Financial Advisor |
| Business Management | Business Manager Business Development Manager Business Advisor Office Manager |
| Human Resource Management | Human Resources Officer Training and Development Officer Recruitment Consultant Human Resources Manager |
| Marketing | Channel Marketing Manager Sales and Promotion Marketing Executive Communications Planner Digital Marketing Executive |
| Operations Management | Logistics and Distribution Manager Supply Chain Manager Service Delivery Manager |
| General / All Pathways | Retail Manager Sales Manager Business Consultant General Manager |
These job roles are based on descriptions from The National Occupational Standards for Business and Management
How can I increase my chances of getting a job?
Given the vocational nature of an HND, job opportunities may present themselves while you carry out work experience. The contacts made on your course may also prove useful when considering how to find a job. It is important to use your CV to highlight the many skills that you’ve gained through your HND. Do your research and find out the person attributes and skillset that companies are searching for.
If you need help compiling a CV tutors/cohort leaders and the welfare officer are all available to be consulted. Note also that there is a study skills sessions exclusively devoted to the production of professional CVs.
References: Pearson BTEC HND Business Specification – Issue 2 – September 2016
Regent College London offers HND courses in Business to help students improve their career prospects and open pathways to University. So, if you want to study around your busy life commitments – why not contact us to find out more on our flexible HND business programmes offering day, evenings and weekend study.
