SCQF Level 10 is considered to be comparable to Honours Degree standard. Why are NEBOSH Diplomas not called degrees?

NEBOSH is an awarding body approved to offer vocational qualifications. Only institutions with degree-awarding powers such as universities may offer degrees.

• Level - The allocation of a qualification ‘level’ is based on the standard, challenge or difficulty of the learning. Using “Qualifications can cross Boundaries”, Level 6 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (RQF) is comparable with Scotland's Level 10 (SCQF).

In other words, the level of challenge of a NEBOSH Diploma qualification rated at RQF Level 6 is considered to be comparable to Honours Degree standard.

• Credit - The term ‘credit’ refers to the length or size of the qualification, the amount of time that it would take a typical learner to complete the qualification or learning programme. A UK degree typically takes three years of full-time study, approximately 360 FHEQ credits (3,600 hours of learning time) in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ). Further information on credit in Higher Education can be found on the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education's website

The total tuition time of (for example) the NEBOSH National Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals) is 191 taught hours with 144 hours of private study and 80 hours of assessment time (415 hours or 42 credits); much less than a degree.

NEBOSH does not (and would not be permitted) to state that a NEBOSH Diploma qualification is the direct equivalent of a 3-year full-time university degree.

For further information on how to use the Qualifications Can Cross Boundaries chart, please see our other FAQ: “How should the 'Qualifications can cross boundaries' document be used for comparing levels and qualifications?".