Mapping learning paths
You may already have some qualifications, in which case you might find it useful to think about how different qualifications relate to each other.
For example, the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) shows the relationship between the many qualifications and learning programmes in Scotland. It provides a common language for all types of learning whether it is formal, non-formal or informal. The framework helps you understand and compare qualifications by clarifying entry and exit points. This all helps you plan your learning path.
| SCQF level | SQA National Units, Courses and Group Awards | Higher education in the university sector | Higher education in the Scottish Colleges | Scottish Vocational Qualifications |
| 12 | Doctorates | |||
| 11 | Masters | SVQ 5 | ||
| 10 | Honours degree Graduate diploma | |||
| 9 | Ordinary degree Graduate certificate | |||
| 8 | Diploma in Higher Education | Higher National Diploma (HND) | SVQ 4 | |
| 7 | Advanced Higher | Higher National Certificate (HNC) | ||
| 6 | Higher | SVQ 3 | ||
| 5 | Intermediate 2 Credit Standard Grade | SVQ 2 |
The SQA has other ways of comparing and explaining the range of formal qualifications available in Scotland that you might find helpful: http://www.sqa.org.uk/ files_ccc/ readyreckoner.html [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .
For further information about a specific course, contact your local college or university, or visit The Open University in Scotland website. For information about career paths see useful websites in the Resources section at the end of this course.
Learning paths