Levels and qualifications explained

We have courses available at a range of levels so no matter what experience or qualifications you have already, you’ll be able to make your next step here.

Our Helpzone team are always available to explain things in more detail, but to help make things a bit easier, take a look at this guide…

Entry Level	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Who is it for?
Entry Level courses are ideal for you if you don’t have any formal qualifications, and are looking to return to academic study.	Level 1 courses provide basic knowledge, and are ideal if you’re new to a subject area.	Level 2 courses are slightly more advanced and begin to build specialist knowledge.	Level 3 courses develop specialist knowledge and can help you to enter employment or prepare you for university study.
What type of courses are available?
Supported Learning Opportunities Courses to Careers Technical and Professional certificates	Technical and Professional Diplomas Traineeships Certificates	Technical and Professional Diplomas GCSEs Apprenticeships	Technical and Professional Diplomas Apprenticeships A Levels BTECs T Levels
What do I need?
All you need is a genuine desire to learn.	Usually, you’ll need some GCSEs at grade 3 and above and must have a genuine interest in your subject.	Usually, you’ll need some knowledge of your chosen subject. You’ll also need GCSE grades at grade 3 and above or have completed a relevant Level 1 qualification.	Usually, you’ll need five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (or equivalent) or to have completed a relevant Level 2 qualification.
What can I do next?
Successfully completing your studies means that you may be able to progress to other College courses.	Once successfully completed you could progress to a Level 2 course, or go on to paid employment as part of an apprenticeship.	After successfully completing a Level 2 course, you may be able to progress to a Level 3 course, consider a more advanced apprenticeship, or gain full-time employment in a junior or entry level role.	After successfully completing your course, you could consider progressing to higher education at University Centre South Devon or gain full-time employment in your chosen profession, including an apprenticeship.