BTECs, OCR Nationals and other vocational qualifications

If you want to learn more about a particular job or area of work, there are many vocational qualifications you can choose from, like BTEC qualifications and OCR Nationals.

Vocational qualifications

Vocational qualifications can range from general qualifications where you learn skills relevant to a variety of jobs, to specialist qualifications designed for a particular area of work.

They are available from several awarding bodies, such as City and Guilds, Edexcel and OCR and can be taken at many different sizes and levels.

You can find out more about vocational qualifications at the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority's (QCA) website.

Vocational qualifications - more information from the QCA website

BTECs and OCR Nationals: what are they?

BTEC qualifications and OCR Nationals are particular types of work-related qualifications that are available in a wide range of subjects.

You can take one if you are interested in learning more about a particular sector or industry. Many have been designed in collaboration with industry, so they can equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

The qualifications offer a mix of theory and practice and can also include an element of work experience. They can take the form of - or be part of - a technical certificate which are also one of the key components of an Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships - find out more

What can you study?

BTECs and OCR Nationals are available in a wide range of subjects which include:

art and design
business
health and social care
information technology
media
public services
science
sport

They are usually studied full-time at FE college, or sometimes at school, or in collaboration between a school and college. You can also take them part-time at FE college.

They are mainly taken by learners over 16, although some schools offer them to 14 to 16-year-olds, normally in combination with other qualifications such as GCSEs or Key Skills.

Levels and sizes

BTEC qualifications are available at various levels on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). OCR Nationals are offered at levels 1 to 3. The NQF shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

Within each level, the qualifications are available in a range of sizes, taking different amounts of time to complete.

Qualifications - more about what the different levels mean

Entry requirements

Qualifications at different levels can have different entry requirements.

For example, if you want to study for a level 2 qualification, you will generally need GCSEs grades D-G, or a level 1 qualification in a similar subject.

To study a level 3 qualification, you will normally need GCSEs grades A*-C, or a level 2 qualification in a related subject.

Specialist and short courses

BTEC specialist and short courses are also available in various sizes and at different levels on the NQF.

BTEC specialist and short courses

How you are assessed?

You will complete a range of assignments, case studies and practical activities, as well as a portfolio of evidence that shows the work you have completed. Generally, you are assessed by your teacher or trainer in your place of study. Depending on the qualification you choose, some assessment may also be done by external examiners.

Grades

BTEC and OCR Nationals are graded:

pass
merit
distinction

UCAS points

If you take a qualification at level 3, you can earn points on the 'UCAS Tariff' for entry into higher education.

Both BTEC and OCR Nationals can earn you equivalent points to AS and A levels. For example, a BTEC National Diploma with overall three merit grades has 240 UCAS points (one A level with A grade has 120 UCAS points).

UCAS Tariff - more information

Retakes

If you're not happy with how you've done in a particular section of the course (which is also known as a 'unit'), there are opportunities to improve your performance. You might like to speak to your trainer or teacher about it. If you are still not satisfied, your teacher can advise you about appealing.

Where can they lead?

BTECs or OCR Nationals can lead to a job or further study.

For example, you could progress from a qualification at one level on the NQF, to higher levels in the same or related area of study. This could eventually lead to professional qualifications.

You could also use a level 3 qualification as a route into higher education, such as taking an Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND).

HNCs and HNDs - more information

Need help and advice?

BTEC qualifications are offered by the Edexcel awarding body; OCR Nationals by the OCR awarding body. Visit their websites to find out about the specific qualifications on offer.

You can also get advice from your school, FE college, employer or careers adviser.