WHEQ Levels
Welcome to the World Higher Education Qualifications Levels web page, where you can explore and discover the diverse range of educational qualifications available globally. Whether you are a student, educator, employer, or simply curious about educational pathways, this page offers a detailed overview of each level, highlighting the associated qualifications, their significance, and the skills and knowledge they entail.
Level 1 - (Entry Level Certificate/Primary GCSE)
Level 1 Qualifications represent the initial stage of education and skills development. They include the First Education Certificate, GCSE grades 3, 2, 1 or grades D, E, F, G, Level 1 Award, Level 1 Certificate, Level 1 Diploma, Level 1 ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Level 1 Essential Skills, Level 1 Functional Skills, Level 1 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), and Music Grades 1, 2, and 3. These qualifications provide a solid foundation, introducing learners to essential knowledge, skills, and competencies in various subjects and disciplines. They serve as stepping stones towards higher levels of education and future career pathways.
Level 2 - (GCE O/L or equivalent)
Level 2 Qualifications signify a significant step forward in education and skills attainment. They encompass a range of certifications, including CSE grade 1, GCSE grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A*, A, B, C, Intermediate Apprenticeship, Level 2 Award, Level 2 Certificate, Level 2 Diploma, Level 2 ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Level 2 Essential Skills, Level 2 Functional Skills, Level 2 National Certificate, Level 2 National Diploma, Level 2 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification), Music Grades 4 and 5, and O level grades A, B, or C. These qualifications provide individuals with a broader and deeper understanding of their chosen subjects or areas of expertise, equipping them with valuable skills for further education or entry into the workforce.
Level 3 - (GCE A/L or equivalent)
Level 3 Qualifications represent a significant advancement in education and skills acquisition. They encompass a wide range of certifications, including A level, Access to Higher Education Diploma, Advanced Apprenticeship, Applied General, AS level, International Baccalaureate Diploma, Level 3 Award, Level 3 Certificate, Level 3 Diploma, Level 3 ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Level 3 National Certificate, Level 3 National Diploma, Level 3 or 4 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification), Music Grades 6, 7, and 8, and Tech Level 3. These qualifications provide learners with in-depth knowledge, advanced skills, and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for higher education, specialized vocational training, or entry into professional careers. Level 3 qualifications are highly regarded and serve as a pathway to academic and professional success.
Level 4 - (Diploma)
Level 4 Qualifications signify a higher level of education and specialized knowledge. They encompass various certifications, including Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE), Higher Apprenticeship, Higher National Certificate (HNC), Level 4 Award, Level 4 Certificate, Level 4 Diploma, and Level 4 or 5 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification). These qualifications offer individuals the opportunity to deepen their understanding and skills in specific subject areas or professional domains. Level 4 qualifications often serve as entry points to higher education programs or advanced vocational training. They provide a solid foundation for career advancement, enabling individuals to pursue further education or progress in their chosen fields.
Level 5 - (Higher Diploma)
Level 5 Qualifications represent a higher level of education and specialization, providing individuals with advanced knowledge and skills. They include certifications such as Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE), Foundation Degree, Higher National Diploma (HND), Level 5 Award, Level 5 Certificate, Level 5 Diploma, and Level 5 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification). These qualifications offer a deeper understanding of specific subjects or professional areas, preparing individuals for more advanced roles and responsibilities in their chosen fields. Level 5 qualifications are highly regarded and often serve as stepping stones to further academic pursuits or career progression. They provide individuals with the necessary expertise to excel in their respective industries.
Level 6 - (Bachelors or Bachelors Honours)
Level 6 Qualifications denote a higher level of academic achievement and specialization. They include certifications such as Degree Apprenticeship, Degree with Honours (e.g., Bachelor of Arts (BA) Hons, Bachelor of Science (BSc) Hons), Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Level 6 Award, Level 6 Certificate, Level 6 Diploma, Level 6 or 7 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification), and Ordinary Degree without Honours. These qualifications represent the successful completion of undergraduate studies, providing individuals with in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in their chosen disciplines. Level 6 qualifications, such as Bachelor's Honours degrees, are highly respected and open doors to a wide range of career opportunities or further academic pursuits at the postgraduate level.
Level 7 - (Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate)
Level 7 Qualifications represent a higher level of academic and professional development beyond undergraduate studies. They include certifications such as Level 7 Award, Level 7 Certificate, Level 7 Diploma, Level 7 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification), Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and Postgraduate Diploma. These qualifications are designed to enhance specialized knowledge, advanced skills, and critical thinking abilities in specific subject areas or professional domains. Level 7 qualifications are commonly pursued by individuals seeking to deepen their expertise, advance their careers, or transition into leadership positions. They provide a solid foundation for further academic research, doctoral studies, or career advancement in various industries and sectors.
Level 8 - (Masters by course work or Masters with course work and a research component )
Level 8 Qualifications encompass advanced academic pathways for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge and expertise. These qualifications offer two distinct options: Masters by Coursework programs, such as MA and MSc, focus on specialized coursework to enhance subject-specific skills. Masters with Coursework and Research programs, including Integrated Master's Degrees like MEng, combine coursework with independent research projects, fostering advanced expertise and contributing to the field. Level 8 Qualifications provide opportunities for individuals to pursue advanced study, acquire specialized knowledge, and develop advanced research skills, preparing them for professional growth and academic advancement.
Level 9 - (Master of Philosophy)
Level 9 Qualifications encompass the prestigious Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Degree, along with associated certifications. The MPhil Degree is designed for individuals seeking to pursue advanced research in their chosen field, requiring a high level of independent study and the completion of a significant research project. Level 9 Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas recognize the successful completion of advanced academic coursework and research at this level. Level 9 Qualifications provide a platform for individuals to engage in rigorous scholarly inquiry, contribute to the body of knowledge in their field, and advance their academic and professional pursuits.
Level 10 - (Doctor of Philosophy / MD with Board Certification/Doctor of Letters/Doctor of Science)
Level 10 Qualifications represent the highest academic achievement attainable, offering individuals the opportunity to pursue a Doctorate, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD or DPhil), Doctor of Letters, or Doctor of Science. These qualifications signify the culmination of extensive research, scholarship, and the production of an original thesis or dissertation. Level 10 Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas recognize the successful completion of rigorous doctoral programs and the attainment of expertise in a specialized field. Level 10 Qualifications equip individuals with advanced knowledge, research skills, and the ability to make significant contributions to academia, research, and professional practice.
