What is an NVQ Level 6?

 

Introduction

Job hunting and climbing the career ladder is becoming increasingly competitive. As society progresses, we find ourselves focusing more on the academic achievements and previous successes of both ourselves and our peers. In doing so, we are quickly creating a world of highly trained professionals, which can make navigating the job market a daunting prospect. Therefore, now more than ever, we need to equip ourselves with the appropriate skillsets to ensure we have the proper capabilities to get the job done.

 

With University fees on the rise, it may not seem possible for all to access such a level of education, however, this is not true. There are now many alternative options that you can follow, one of which being a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). You can apply for many different levels of NVQ, from level 1 to level 7. To keep contextually relevant, we will be comparing a Degree, to an NVQ Level 6, the equivalent of a Bachelors Degree.

 

Degree vs. NVQ

In the past the weight given to a degree has been much more significant than that given by a diploma, yet it is important to evaluate why this may be? It is argued that University qualifications are more respectable than qualifications gained through other means, yet this isn’t necessarily true. It is important to remember the historical connotations of University, and where this respect has come from. Many often think, that due to the history of University attendance and its importance to those before us, that it is more respectable than any other qualification. However, this is a stigma we need to distance ourselves from. As we have evolved, society and education have evolved alongside us, as we are now in a world with many more viable options than we have ever had before.

 

Employers are now awarding NVQ’s with a much higher regard than previously due to the hard work and experience that goes into one. It is often said that to get a well paid job you need to have both experience and a qualification. This set many University students back. Although they are qualified, they have not had the opportunity to gain experience in the field. NVQ’s however, require experience alongside learning, therefore giving you the upper hand when looking for jobs.

 

The advantages and disadvantages of University

Whether or not you should go to university is an age-old argument. Many say that given the competitive job market, it is a given, that to pursue your chosen career you should go to university. Although that is not necessarily true, university does still have its advantages. It is historically respected, and no doubt will continue to be for the foreseeable future. It’s also a brilliant social learning curve, many friends can be made, and life experiences had. There is excellently delivered lectures given to rooms of likeminded individuals, not to mention the night life.

Yet University does also have its disadvantages. University is a very academic route, which does not suit everyone, as we all learn in different ways. Not only this but it is a very expensive investment, that take a long time to complete. On average, a full-time university degree can take onwards of 3 years. Not only this, it can cost multiple tens of thousands of pounds. A figure that we have seen rise over the years. Although it may seem like a worthwhile investment at the end, University life isn’t suited to everyone.

 

The advantages and disadvantages of a NVQ

It is then only appropriate to look at the advantages and disadvantages of an NVQ in the same way. A level 6 NVQ is the equivalent of a Bachelors degree and can be earned in a very different learning environment. Employers know that University now is less attainable than ever. Therefore they are starting to view other qualifications with much more respect than they have done previously. Especially qualifications such as the NVQ Level 6.  Not only does it give you the same level of qualification but does so whilst also providing experience in the chosen field.

The way in which NVQ’s are delivered is also vastly different from the delivery of university lectures. More often than not, NVQ’s can be completed online. They can be done whilst working full time and still take considerably less time to complete than a degree. However, unlike university, the social aspect of an NVQ qualification can be drastically different. If you are learning via an online course, it is very easy to isolate yourself. In doing so you can miss out on the social opportunities working with others can bring. Therefore, it is important to look for a course that still provides such opportunities, even though it is hosted online.  

 

A Diploma through the College of Contract Management

The College of Contract Management is a fantastic example of demonstrating how the advantages of university and diplomas can be combined. They deliver a high class education whilst maintaining the flexibility and opportunity for experience as a study from home diploma.

 

For example, let's look at their diploma in site management. It gives you all the knowledge and capabilities you need to excel in your career whilst providing you with real life experience at the same time. Not only this but it is very affordable, takes less time to complete than a standard degree and you can access the course from the comfort of your own home. However, it is important to mention the one key difference that differentiates this online course from others. It is delivered via live online lectures, with the lecturer and other student available to talk to and network with. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to meet likeminded people without having to leave your home.

These facts alone, justify the rise in popularity of the non-academic route, and further highlight the importance to find the course, that is right for you.