Kingston Maurward College is excited to announce a new suite of Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) starting in September 2023.
These programmes, which include Animal Management, Equine Management, Agriculture, Horticulture, Protective Services Management, and Outdoor Adventure Management, are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
But what exactly is a Higher National Diploma (HND)? A Higher National Diploma (HND) is a type of higher education course that is designed to provide students with specialised knowledge and practical skills in a particular industry or field. The HND is typically a two-year programme that is recognised globally and is highly valued by employers due to its focus on practical, real-world experience. Higher education courses that include high levels of practical delivery are favoured by employers because they provide students with the opportunity to develop hands-on skills and apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. This type of learning environment equips students with a stronger foundation in practical skills and knowledge, which is increasingly in demand by employers.
Practical courses also offer students the opportunity to develop valuable technical skills and to learn in a hands-on environment, which is much closer to the actual work they will be doing in the future. This type of training is also more engaging and allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems and situations, making them better prepared for the demands of the workforce.
One of the key advantages of an HND programme is that it provides students with a fast track to employment. By focusing on practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, HND graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce and make an immediate impact. In many cases, HND graduates are able to secure employment sooner than those who have completed a traditional academic degree programme.
HNDs are very flexible higher education programmes. Many HND programmes allow students to choose courses that align with their career goals, giving them the opportunity to tailor their education to their specific interests and career aspirations. Additionally, HND courses typically are delivered in less days per week compared to a full BA or BSc degree, which gives students more time to focus on their careers or pursue other interests outside of their studies. All full-time HNDs at Kingston Maurward for example are delivered over 2 days per week, allowing students to fit their studies around part-time employment.
Why choose a local college over a larger university to study higher education? One of the key advantages is the convenience of being able to study close to home. This not only allows students to save on the cost of accommodation, but also allows them to maintain a sense of community and support from family and friends. Additionally, studying at a college is financially more accessible than studying at a university, where higher education fees at university are around £9,250 per year, compared to £6,500 for an HND programme at Kingston Maurward, for example.
Another major advantage of studying an HND at a college is the opportunity to top up the HND to a full BA or BSc honours degree in a third year. This allows students to continue their education and further advance their career prospects.
Higher education is proven to increase the earning potential of graduates. An HND from a college can provide students with the knowledge and skills to qualify for higher-paying jobs and more career opportunities. The current average starting salary for a graduate in the UK is just over £24,000 according to the Graduate Outcomes report by HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency). Graduates also earn £10,000 more per year than those who don’t study a higher education course. This proves that higher education continues to be a rewarding investment.
But its not all about enhancing your employment chances – studying an HND in subjects such as horticulture for example can offer a range of benefits to those who are not necessarily seeking to enter the workforce. For example, an HND programme in horticulture can provide students with a comprehensive education in the theory and practical aspects of gardening and landscape design. This in-depth knowledge can be useful for those who are interested in gardening as a hobby or who are looking to improve their own garden or landscape. Additionally, studying an HND programme can also be a fulfilling and enriching experience for those who are passionate about their chosen subject. HND programmes are often taught by experienced professionals in the field, who can provide students with valuable insights and hands-on experience. This allows students to gain a deep understanding of their subject and to connect with like-minded individuals who share their interests.
Students can also benefit from excellent teaching and learning facilities. Kingston Maurward is also proud to unveil its new £3.5m higher education building, where all of the higher education programmes will be delivered. The state-of-the-art facility includes lecture theatres, classrooms and other modern amenities, providing students with the best possible learning environment.
For more information, please visit our website Kingston Maurward College | Land Based College | Dorchester, Dorset (kmc.ac.uk)
