What are Higher Technical Qualifications?

Higher Technical Qualifications are Level 4 and 5 qualifications designed to prepare you for skilled jobs in high-demand industries like engineering, construction, digital technologies and early years.
Studying a Higher Technical Qualification at our Mansfield Hub, you’ll gain advanced technical knowledge and practical skills, getting you job-ready.
The HTQ accreditation means a course has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education to meet employer standards and ensure you receive a high-quality education that meets industry needs.
You can find out more about Higher Technical Qualifications from the Department of Education.
Why choose to study a Higher Technical Qualification?
- Get job-ready: Gain qualifications employers are actively seeking.
- Flexible study: Full-time and part-time options available to fit around commitments.
- Opportunity to progress: Within your career or top-up your qualification to degree-level.
Find your course
Higher National Certificates
Higher National Certificates (HNC) are Level 4 qualifications equivalent to one year of a degree. A HNC can be topped up to a HND or a full degree with further study.
Higher National Diplomas
Higher National Diplomas (HND) are Level 5 courses equivalent to two years of a degree. A HND can be topped up to a full degree with further study.
NTU in Mansfield
HTQ qualifications are delivered at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in Mansfield.
The Mansfield Hub is a dedicated Higher Education centre delivering courses and training from Mansfield town, approximately 14 miles north of Nottingham city centre.

Pearson Partnership
Nottingham Trent University has partnered with global learning company Pearson to deliver their Higher National (HN) and Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ). This collaboration makes Nottingham Trent University the first Higher Education Institution (HEI) in England to offer Pearson’s HTQ qualifications.
Pearson’s Higher National qualifications are internationally recognised, career-focused qualifications designed to widen access to high-quality qualifications that meet employer-led standards.
How to apply
You can apply for an HTQ by clicking the 'Apply now' button at the top of the relevant course page on our website.
Alternatively, you can apply to a full-time HTQ course through the UCAS homepage and for part-time courses you can apply through the NTU Applicant Portal.
Enquiries
- An employer interested in finding out how these courses could benefit your workforce
- A training provider and want to discuss progression opportunities to Higher Technical courses
- Interested in finding out more about a full or part time course at level 4 or 5, or would like help to apply.
Fees and Funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there's no need to feel anxious and confused about it. Visit the course pages above for fees and funding information. You can also take a look at our fees and funding pages for lots of handy advice and guidance.
Microcredentials and Short Courses
Interested in gaining professional qualifications, with studies that fit your circumstances? Want to develop your career? Maybe you want to explore a new discipline, or perhaps you just enjoy learning for pleasure. A short course at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) can help you to develop new skills.
Apprenticeships
Combine working with studying part-time at a leading university – giving apprentices and employers the best of both worlds. We have been successfully delivering higher and degree apprenticeships since 2015, providing training solutions to a wide range of businesses.