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Study Pathway

Study Pathway

Study Pathway

The BTEC Higher Nationals Programme offers clearly defined academic and professional pathways, beginning with broad industry areas at Level 4 and progressing to specialised fields at Level 5.

At Level 4 (HNC), learners select a main discipline such as Business, Engineering, Technology, or Art & Design. Each programme builds a strong foundation of core knowledge, skills, and professional understanding relevant to that industry.

At Level 5 (HND), learners continue in the same industry area but choose a specialised pathway that aligns with their career ambitions. This enables deeper learning, hands-on projects, and practical application tailored to real-world contexts.

This structure allows learners to start from a broad foundation and advance into specific expertise, preparing them for international Top-up Bachelor’s degrees or career entry at a professional level.

Level 4 (Main Pathway) Level 5 (Specialised Pathway Examples)
Business Marketing Management, Accounting & Finance, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management
Technology Software Development, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Digital Innovation
Engineering Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering
Art & Design Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Interior Design, Creative Media Production

Progression Opportunities

In Vietnam

After completing BTEC Level 4, students can continue to Level 5 at partner colleges or universities in Vietnam, and then progress to a Top-up program (final year of the Bachelor’s degree) at local universities in relevant study areas.

Business Pathway:

  • Banking Academy

  • Academy of Finance

  • National Economics University

  • University of Commerce

  • FPT University – Business Faculty

Technology & Engineering Pathway:

  • Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT)

  • FPT University – Technology Faculty

  • Hanoi University of Science and Technology

  • Phenikaa University

  • RMIT Vietnam

All of these institutions offer international or joint programs with foreign universities, enabling BTEC students to pursue transfer studies or obtain dual degrees.

International Opportunities

After completing BTEC Level 5, students may progress to the Top-up year to earn an international Bachelor’s degree at global partner universities such as:

  • University of South Wales (UK)

  • University of Sunderland (UK)

  • University of Northampton (UK)

  • Deakin University (Australia)

  • Griffith University (Australia)

  • PSB Academy (Singapore)

A complete list of recognized universities and partner institutions will be provided at the following link (to be updated).

Level Qualification Place Duration Description
BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) At the centre 1 year Provides core theoretical and practical foundations in the chosen field (Business, Technology, etc.), equivalent to the first year of university.
BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) At partner colleges or universities in Vietnam 1 year Develops advanced knowledge, management, and research skills, preparing learners for university-level study or global employment.
Top-up Top-up Year In Vietnam or abroad 1 year Students can complete their final year (Top-up) with local or overseas partner universities to earn an international bachelor’s degree.

Career Opportunities

The BTEC qualification is globally recognised and opens diverse academic and career pathways.

Level Career Opportunities
After Level 4 (HNC) Eligible for entry-level positions in business, technology, marketing, or operations; suitable for work-study pathways.
After Level 5 (HND) Prepared for professional roles in business operations, project coordination, or management support.
After Top-up (Bachelor’s Degree) Eligible for global career opportunities in management, marketing, finance, technology, or entrepreneurship — including roles such as Business Development Executive, Marketing Specialist, Financial Analyst, Operations Manager, or Entrepreneur.