Here is a brief description of just some of them:

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are government backed training schemes aimed primarily at people aged between 16-24, although funding is available for those over the age of 24 in some regions. They enable you to learn practical skills and achieve nationally recognised qualifications, including a relevant NVQ and technical certificate. You will spend part of your time ‘on-the-job’ getting real experience and some of your time in college learning the theory you need to know. You also have the opportunity to earn a wage while you learn!

NVQs/SVQs

NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) and SVQs (Scottish Vocational Qualifications) are also work-related qualifications that enable you to gain the skills and knowledge you needed to do a job. You can do an NVQ or SVQ at different levels, depending on your ability and what sort of job you want to do. These qualifications are based on national standards agreed by industry, so they are recognised by employers throughout the UK.

Foundation degrees

Foundation degrees are a new employment-related higher education qualification designed to equip you with the higher-level skills that employers are crying out for. They are validated by universities and are a degree in their own right. Once completed, the foundation degree will provide a stepping stone to a full honours degree should you wish to continue with higher education. With no nationally set entry requirements, foundation degrees are open to anyone with the right ability. Offered on both a full-time and part-time basis, accessibility is a key point of the foundation degrees, with learning in the workplace forming a major part of the qualification.

National Diplomas/Certificates

National Diplomas/Certificates are Level 3 qualifications for students who wish to prepare for a career in a specific occupational area and/or progress to higher education. They have the same academic level as A Levels, but offer more opportunities for specific hands-on, work related activity. National Diplomas are equivalent to three full A Levels and National Certificates are equivalent to two A Levels.

Bachelors degree

The qualification studied towards as an undergraduate. Also known as a first degree or undergraduate degree.

BA (Bachelor of Arts) - a first degree from university usually in the arts.

BSc (Bachelor of Science) - a first degree from university usually in the sciences.

PGDip

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip). Does not contain extensive research.

Masters degree

MA (Master of Arts). A postgraduate taught degree in a non-scientific subject.
MSc (Master of Science). A postgraduate taught degree usually in a scientific subject.

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy. A postgraduate research degree lasting for 3 or more years.

To find out which qualifications are available in the industry you are interested in, take a look at the separate industry sections.