What is a Diploma?

It's a new qualification for 14 to 19 year-olds in England. It's another option to consider alongside GCSEs, A-levels and apprenticeships. It doesn't replace these qualifications, instead it's anticipated that students will take a combination of qualifications that suits them best. You'll can take a GCSE or A-level as part of your Diploma course, if that's what you want. They will generally take two years to complete, but it could be shorter or longer depending on your situation.

What subjects are available?

The first five Diploma subjects launched in September 2008. You can study Diplomas in:

• Construction and the Built Environment
• Creative and Media
• Engineering
• Information Technology and Society
• Health and Development

Another five will be introduced in September 2009. These are:

• Environmental and Land-based Studies
• Business, Administration and Finance
• Manufacturing and Product Design
• Hospitality
• Hair and Beauty

Finally, in September 2010 another four will be added. These are:

• Travel and Tourism
• Public Services
• Sport and Leisure
• Retail

I haven't heard about this at school or college

Your school or college might not be signed up yet. In September 2008 there were 1,300 selected schools and colleges taking part. The aim is to roll this out to all schools and colleges by 2013 so that everyone can take Diplomas.

Ask your school or college when Diplomas will be available to study, or check the online 14-19 area prospectus to see where you can study Diplomas in your area.

I've heard Diplomas are being scrapped. What's going on?  

Headlines suggesting Diplomas are being scrapped are not strictly accurate. The Government has only scrapped the launch of three new Diplomas in Science, Humanities and languages. Schools can still teach Diplomas if they want to and it's still a recognised qualification by all but a few universities.

You can study Diplomas at three levels:

• The Foundation Diploma starts in Year 10 or 12 and is the same as five GCSEs at grade D-G
• The Higher Diploma also starts in Year 10 or 12, and is the same as seven GCSEs at grade A*-C
• The Advanced Diploma is the same as 3.5 A-levels

There'll be some classroom learning, but because the Diplomas aim to give you a headstart in business, you'll also spend time in different environments, such as workshops. This should give you a better understanding of the type of workplace you might end up working in. There's also the opportunity to do work experience as part of your Diploma.

Will universities recognise Diplomas?

According to UCAS, around 80% of British universities are happy to accept Diplomas now, although there is still divided opinion about how they are regarded by universities. Find out what two universities think of Diplomas.

It sounds like an apprenticeship...

An apprenticeship is designed to train you for a specific career. Diplomas will give you a good taster into certain industries, but you'll have time to study other subjects while you decide on your preferred career path.

How do I know if it's right for me?

Read our article about different opinions on Diplomas, from students to universities and employers. Talk to your teachers, Careers Advisor or Connexions Personal Advisor or visit the websites in the Next Steps box.

Updated: 11/04/2011