Student Advice 3 min read

What is a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)?

Looking to gain a vocational qualification? A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) might be the one for you! Here’s everything you need to know.

Ben Maples

Published Aug 21st 2024

What is a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)?

A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) is an accredited qualification that is widely respected by employers in the UK and abroad. It shows them that you have developed a deep understanding of a subject that directly applies to a certain profession or job field.

DipHE is a level 5 qualification, equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree and worth the same amount of credits. A DipHE can be awarded to students who leave a degree program before their third and final year of study for a degree.

Your DipHE gives you a strong, foundational knowledge of your subject area. You'll gain both academic understanding and practical skills you can use in your career. The diploma can be a standalone qualification or can count towards studying a full Bachelor's degree if you wish.

Is a DipHE the same as a HND?

Both a DipHE and an HND are level 5 qualifications. Both take two years to complete when studied full-time and are both university-based vocational courses with the same points awarded when completed.

The difference between a DipHE and HND is in the methods of assessment. A HND mostly includes practical assessments, such as presentations, projects, and practical observations. A DipHE follows a more academic approach with essays, coursework and exam-based assessments.

Take some time to consider which way you would rather learn and which assessment types will best show the necessary skills needed for your career.

Is a diploma a degree?

It can become a little confusing as you might hear someone say they received their diploma when graduating with a degree. But a diploma is a certificate that shows you've reached a certain level of education. In this instance, a Diploma of Education is a certificate that is equivalent to two years of studying for a degree. Therefore, the DipHE is not a full degree.

A degree is an advanced qualification that tends to be more in-depth and will take more time to complete. Which you decide to choose will depend on your skills, interests and goals for the future. Neither option is better than the other and will be down to you!

Subjects available

There's a range of course options with vocational routes available as a DipHE. They all help prepare students for the world of work, so the diploma subjects have very close links with specific career paths. Available subjects include:

How am I assessed?

DipHE's are usually assessed through a mixture of written work, assignments, projects and sometimes practical work. It could include coursework, exams or both.

A DipHE is graded into tiers. This will mean your final grade will be a fail, pass, pass with merit or pass with distinction.

What is a DipHE worth?

A Diploma of Higher Education is typically worth 240 credit points, with 120 of those points earned at Level 7, and at least 80 from Level 8. Because an undergraduate degree is worth 360 credit points when all three years are completed, a DipHE is essentially the first two years of an undergraduate degree.

How do I apply for a DipHE?

Students can apply via their chosen institution, usually online or sometimes by post. For more information, contact the college or university offering your chosen course.

What are the entry requirements for a DipHE?

The entry requirements will depend on the course and where you're looking to study. Some DipHE courses don't require any previous qualifications while others may specify you need A-Levels, BTEC or equivalent to apply. Most colleges and universities have entry requirement information online. Have a look at what they say and contact them if you can't find the necessary information online.

Distance learning options for DipHE

Most universities will offer a Diploma of Higher Education as a distance learning option. The most well-known is the Open University which allows students to pick and mix modules to gain a wider range of knowledge, with all accessed online.

What can I do with a Diploma of Higher Education?

When looking at your study options, you'll be asking yourself is it worth it? And the answer is down to you. A DipHE is a great choice for those looking to head into the working world earlier than those choosing a three-year course, but with a deeper understanding of the industry and the technical knowledge needed that a CertHE may not cover.

If you also finish your course and find you're enjoying education, in many cases you can convert your DipHE into a full degree with an extra year of study on a course that is closely related. This will likely mean you'll join a Bachelor's degree program in the final year of study.