How to choose your course

Course planning is key to a successful future. City College recognises the importance of choosing the right course that will provide a pathway to employment. 

Our courses are designed to ensure that you can progress into employment or higher education, unless you want to learn for personal interest. 

Age is not a barrier since we have a range of levels and qualifications to suit everyone including university level courses (HND, degrees and professional qualifications).

Which career/course?

The first thing you need to decide is what you hope the course will lead to?  To help you make that all important choice, you can explore different careers and job profiles at our online virtual career library.

Which level?

To make the right course decision you need know which level you will start at. Some courses do not require previous qualifications. Others may require a minimum level of English and Maths. Wherever you start, you can progress up the levels from foundation to advanced and beyond. If you are unsure, we will work this out for you once you have applied. Each course description outlines the entry requirements.

What next?

When you know which job you want and which course you need you can apply online. Just click the apply now on the course information page.

Did you know?

We have over 4500 adults at City College in any year, which is four times as many under 19s!

Levels Explained

E 1, E2, E3  (Entry Level qualifications)

These qualifications concentrate on basic skills and understanding, they do not involve a vocational skill, i.e the part that leads to a specific job. They do build confidence and help people to prepare for further learning, work and independent living.

L1 (Level 1 qualifications)

Ideal for those who wish to develop skills required to move on to a Level 2 course.

Level 2 courses are similar to a GCSE's or O Levels. Level 1 courses are ideal for those who have not quite got the grades they need for a level 2 course and just need a little longer to improve basic skills in Maths, English and IT. 

L2 (Level 2 qualifications)

These qualifications are roughly the equivalent of GCSE's.  You are deemed to have a Level 2 qualification if you have gained one of the following:

• National Vocational Qualifications at Level 2
• GCSE's achieved at grades A*- C
• The Higher Diploma
• The BTEC First Diploma
• City & Guilds Intermediate Awards
• Apprenticeships

Most employers use this level as their minimum entry requirement.

L3 (Level 3 qualifications)

These qualifications are the equivalent of A Levels and you can go to university with one.  Unlike A Levels you are graded with a Pass, Merit or Distinction.

• National Vocational Qualifications at Level 3
• AS and A Levels
• The International Baccalaureate
• The BTEC National Award
• City & Guilds Advanced Awards.

L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 (qualifications at Levels 4 to 8)

These qualifications include:

• National Vocational Qualifications at Levels 4 and 5
• Foundation degrees
• Honours degrees
• Higher National Certificates and Diplomas
• Specialist professional qualifications
• Postgraduate qualifications