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Understanding the 14-19 Diplomas
The new Diploma is an alternative to the traditional GCSE or A level route. It offers a mix of classroom learning, creative thinking and hands-on experience. It can help you to develop the skills and experience that are valued by employers and which universities and colleges look for in potential students.
Diploma levels
There are three levels to the qualification.
- The Foundation Diploma, which takes broadly the same time to do as four or five GCSEs and can be started in Year 10 or above.
- The Higher Diploma, which takes broadly the same time to do as five or six GCSEs and can be started in Year 10 or above.
- The Advanced Diploma, which is equivalent to three and a half A levels and can be started in Year 12 or above.
The Advanced Diploma could lead to college, university or to skilled employment. A Progression Diploma is also available, which takes broadly the same time as two A levels. This can be chosen if you wish to take a smaller programme or would like to combine a Diploma with another qualification.
A larger Extended Diploma will be available at all three levels from 2011 and at Level 3 is likely to be equivalent to four and a half A levels (subject to Confirmation through the Tariff process).
Some universities and colleges have provided a statement regarding their view of the Advanced Diploma. View the institutions' statements.
Diplomas lines (subject areas) available
There are 17 broad Diploma lines that are being introduced over the next few years - by 2013 all students will be entitled to access the lines listed below. Click on the Diploma title to access the relevant website. All website links will open in a new window.
From 2008
Construction and the Built Environment
Society, Health and Development
From 2009
Business, Administration and Finance
Manufacturing and Product Design
From 2010
From 2011
In October 2007, the Secretary of State announced that the following three Diploma subjects will be introduced from 2011. Information on these subjects will be published as soon as it becomes available.
Humanities
Science
Languages
Further information
Directgov has created a website dedicated to the Diplomas. It contains facts and useful advice about studying a Diploma, and the frequently asked questions should answer any questions that you may have about the qualification. Access the Directgov Diploma website.