HNC Fashion Technology

Higher National qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers. The HNC in Fashion Technology at SCQF level 7 develops knowledge and specialist vocational skills for a range of careers in the apparel industry and for progression to further studies.

This qualification covers areas such as:

  • Pattern Development for the Fashion Industry
  • Fashion Technology: Pattern Drafting and Development
  • Sewing and Finishing Techniques for Garment Development
  • Fashion: Textile Technology
  • Fashion Technology: Design and Produce an Outfit
  • Garment and Equipment Technology for the Fashion Industry
  • Fashion: Preparation and Cutting of a Sample Garment

This qualification is available through colleges. Typically, a HNC takes one year to complete.

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Higher National qualifications have been 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 is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

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

This HN provides progression routes to further study and/or employment.

The HNC in Fashion Technology is 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:

  • National Qualifications in Fashion and Textile Technology at SCQF level 5 or 6 or equivalent
  • work experience in fashion technology or a related industry
  • evidence of a natural aptitude in the area of fashion technology

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

Progression and employment

Learners who achieve an HNC in Fashion Technology can progress to the HND in Fashion Technology or to employment in the fashion industry in roles such as garment technologists, pattern cutters, etc.

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study.

For example, the HNC in Fashion Technology may allow direct entry into the second year of a degree programme in fashion design and the HND in Fashion Technology may allow direct entry to the third year of a programme. However, articulation requirements for degree courses vary significantly and colleges can advise you on the best options.

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

Centres without devolved authority require to 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.

 

HNC Fashion Technology at SCQF level 7

Group Award code: GP8D 15 (96 SCQF credit points)

HNC in Fashion Technology at SCQF level 7 consists of six mandatory units (56 SCQF credit points) and three to five optional units (40 SCQF credit points).