by HRUC Apprenticeships & Skills•Harrow on the Hill, GREATER LONDON
Competitive
09/09/2026
Open
Competitive • HRUC Apprenticeships & Skills
This Level 4 Higher National Certificate provides broad knowledge of the principal areas of business. It is suitable for anyone interested in careers such as marketing, human resources or finance, as well as students wishing to continue to an HND or university degree.
The programme includes:
Applicants should normally have:
Applicants with slightly lower qualifications may be considered if they have good references. An Access to Higher Education qualification in Business may also be accepted.
Applicants will need a tutor reference and must attend an interview.
International applicants whose first language is not English—and who have not completed their final two years of education in English—must normally demonstrate English ability equivalent to IELTS 5.5, including at least 5.5 in Reading and Writing.
The course is intended for students who want to build a career in areas including marketing, human resources and finance.
It can be taken as a standalone qualification or used as a route into the second year of a university degree or the Level 5 HND in Business.
The qualification involves approximately 1,200 total learning hours.
Around 480 hours are delivered at college through lectures and workshops. This normally amounts to 15 hours each week, divided between taught lessons and practical or supported workshop sessions.
The remaining 720 hours consist of independent study, including research, assignments and work completed at home or in the Learning Resource Centre.
The HNC is assessed entirely through coursework, with no traditional examinations.
One unit is a Pearson-set research project representing 12.5% of the qualification. Pearson determines the project theme, and students receive limited guidance and feedback while completing it. Half of the project time is timetabled and half is independent study. The project must be completed by February.
The college also works with large public-sector organisations and local businesses to offer experience of different business operations and administrative functions. Organisations mentioned include:
A detailed course handbook is available from the college and includes information about:
Higher Education students can also participate in extracurricular activities designed to develop additional employability skills and help prepare them for university or employment.
Eligible students may be able to apply for financial support through Student Finance England. Fee status and eligibility depend upon government regulations.
The qualification can support progression into a variety of business roles, including:
Students who successfully complete the HNC may be able to progress to the Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Business and subsequently complete a full degree at university.
The HNC is also recognised by various professional bodies as preparation for further professional study.
These fees cover one year of study and include tuition, examination costs, materials, an ID card, use of college facilities and registration.
Applications can be submitted through the online application form on the Harrow College website. Alternatively, applicants can download an application form and return it by post.
Once an application has been received, the college will contact the applicant to arrange an interview.
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