SQA Advanced Certificate/Diploma Electronics
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Electronics and SQA Advanced Diploma in Electronics provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the requirements of employers recruiting electronic technicians. They also allow advanced entry to some universities.
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Electronics (SCQF level 7) will enable students to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in a range of analogue and digital electronics technologies.
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Electronics (SCQF level 8) will develop knowledge and skills in planning, project management and investigating. Students will also gain an understanding of the external and internal factors that influence the performance of modern companies.
This qualification is available through a growing number of colleges, training providers and universities around the world. Typically, an SQA Advanced Certificate takes one year and an SQA Advanced Diploma takes two years to complete.
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Why deliver this qualification
SQA Advanced Certificates and SQA Advanced Diplomas 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 flexible delivery. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.
Who does this qualification suit
The SQA Advanced Certificate in Electronics and the SQA Advanced Diploma in Electronics are suitable for a wide range of learners 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 decided by the college or learning provider. As a guide, the college or learning provider will look for:
- school-leaving qualifications equivalent to RQF level 3 or SCQF level 6
- a centre-devised test which shows the student's ability to study at SQA Advanced Diploma level
- relevant work experience
Progression
Market research indicates that there is a growing demand for people with technician-level skills in electronics, especially as companies automate more of their processes. Those achieving the SQA Advanced Certificate and SQA Advanced Diploma will find employment as electronic technicians and senior electronic technicians in a wide range of small, medium and large companies.
The SQA Advanced Certificate and SQA Advanced Diploma provide a solid platform for students who wish to gain advanced entry to degree-level study in order to become an incorporated engineer. For further information please refer to the SQA university agreements.
Offer this qualification
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.
How to assess
Each unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for the unit.
Ongoing course assessment will apply.
Qualification structure
SQA Advanced Certificate in Electronics
Group award code: GM8C 47 (96 SCQF credit points)
SQA Advanced Diploma in Electronics
Group Award code: GM8T 48 (240 SCQF credit points)
For information relating to the qualifications structure please refer to the arrangements document.