HNC/HND Architectural Technology with Digital Construction

The following optional guidance can be used to support delivery and assessment as an alternative to the approaches outlined in the Group Award / Unit specification.

Optional assessment guidance 2023-24

Higher National qualifications are developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities, and industry — so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit typically involves 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a wide choice of optional units, which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to local needs.

This HNC and HND provide progression routes to further study (see Progression).

The HNC and HND in Architectural Technology with Digital Construction are suitable for a wide range of candidates, including:

• school leavers
• adult returners to education
• individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
• people who wish to start their own business

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

• appropriate groupings of National Units
• an SVQ at SCQF level 5 or 6 in a relevant area
• relevant work experience

Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the HNC in Architectural Technology with Digital Construction allows direct entry into the second year of most degree programmes, and the HND in Architectural Technology with Digital Construction allows direct entry into the third year of most degree programmes.

Higher National qualifications also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs).

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority must come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.

Specific delivery requirements

Centres interested in offering this qualification must come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide. The specific delivery requirements are set out in the assessment strategy.

Each unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.