What is BCS HEQ all about/Twim Institute
So, a lot of people might be wondering what the BCS HEQ stands for and its relevance to one’s certificate. The truth is no knowledge is ever and will ever be a waste.
Learning is a continuous process from birth to death, and from cradle to grave. As long as humans are alive and breathing, learning is a process that goes on and on.
Therefore, additional skills one acquires are feathers to one’s cap and even if not useful now, would be in the nearest future. Ultimately, in terms of learning and garnering more knowledge, no stone must be left unturned.
First, what does HEQ stand for?
HEQ is the Higher Education Qualification program from BCS (British Computer Society), The Chartered Institute for IT. It offers three modular study levels, each accredited by the UK government regulator, as well as the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (OFQUAL).
The BCS HEQs are a combination of qualifications in IT that are mapped to the British Qualification system at Levels 4, 5, and 6.
In the British qualifications framework, the first year of a Bachelor’s degree or a qualification like the BCS Level 4 Certificate in IT are all types of Level 4 qualifications, while the second year of a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to the Higher National Diploma or the BCS Level 5 Diploma in IT. The third year, however, is the final year of a Bachelor’s degree or the BCS Professional Graduate Diploma in IT are examples of level 6 qualifications.
What this simply means is that, if you study with BCS from levels 4-6, you will end up with a qualification evaluated at the level of a UK Bachelor’s degree.
The BCS higher education qualifications are regulated by the UK government. Therefore, you need not develop a cold leg towards acquiring it as they are widely accepted and can be used to top-up to the final year of one’s undergraduate study.
NOTE: UK Bachelor’s degrees are 3 years since the entry point is A-Levels, unlike the 4 years in Nigeria.
Can I Take the Course Online?
The answer is YES! Distance is never a barrier. You can learn within the comforts of your home or office. These classes are delivered via a combination of recorded classes or can easily be accessed through our portal or live instructor-led classes mostly delivered through the Zoom app.
BCS Level 4
The Certificate level comprises 3 modules namely: Software Development, Information Systems, and Computer and Network Technology. Upon completion of the course, as a student, you would earn the BCS Level 4 Certificate in IT, equivalent to the first year of UK university degree studies.
BCS Level 5
The Level 5 Diploma in IT builds on the modules taken at level 4 to solidify one’s expertise in IT. The level is made up of one core module and 3 other modules from which you are expected to select from a variety of options.
BCS Level 6
This is the final level that completes your HEQ course. you will be required to write a total of 4 exams and submit a professional project to gain the Graduate Diploma in IT, which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. Many universities across the globe accept the Graduate Diploma for MSc study.
Is BCS Equivalent to a Degree?
This is the final level of BCS. It is an internationally recognized IT Qualification and the Academic Equivalent of a 3-year UK University Honours degree in IT.
Are BCS Qualifications Recognized?
BCS IT qualifications are aligned to professional and IT industry standards examined at the degree level and accredited by the UK regulator Ofqual.
What can I do after BCS?
BCS program offers a lot of opportunities to candidates in both private and public sectors. Candidates can also be employed in the post of Software Developer, IT Manager, Project manager (IT), System Engineer, Network Administrator, etc. So, make hay while the sun shines.
Where Can I Study?
The British Computer Society has several approved centers in the countries below:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Nepal
- Mauritius
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Zimbabwe
If you are in Nigeria and would love to be a student of the BCS HEQ, click here
What Are the Entry Requirements?
- You must first be a BCS member before you can be allowed to sit for the exams.
- You must be aged 16 years old and over.
- If you already hold a qualification that covers the HEQ syllabus, you may qualify for an exemption from a particular module.
The training approximately takes six months.
Can the BCS Certificate be Used for WES Evaluation?
Yes! The BCS is a valid awarding body and its certificate can be used for WES evaluation which is important in migrating abroad. A lot of Nigerians have been able to evaluate their certificates successfully. A lot of people are looking for a way of boosting their scores; hence, the reason for the BCS level 4 certificate in IT is to claim additional points.
Can I Gain University Credits at a US University using BCS HEQs?
Each university has its policies and each university responds differently. However, a large number of them request for the WES evaluation and if it is evaluated accordingly by WES, then they would honor the certificate.
Can I as a Candidate in Nigeria take the Examinations?
Absolutely yes! There are several centers in which you can take the exams in Nigeria. The exams take place twice a year: in April and October.
The examinations are not practical in that you would need a computer; the exams have to be written in a theory form. Each of the exams would cost you 45 pounds and one must be a member of the BCS before you can take the exams. To be a member of the BCS, you have to register as a student and it costs 30 pounds which is valid for 3 years. Click here for more information.
If you wish to end your BCS journey at level 5, then, you can write a project. However, if you wish to proceed to level 6, then, you can do a professional project as well.
