Vol. 472 No. 3
131 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education whether a HND qualification from Northern Ireland is considered to be equivalent to a diploma from a regional college; the steps, if any, being taken to establish equity between college courses/qualifications on either side of the Border; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22978/96]
The HND qualification from Northern Ireland is normally awarded following a two year full-time course of study. A diploma from a regional college is an NCEA qualification normally awarded following a three year full-time course. Accordingly, a HND qualification would not normally be considered equivalent to an NCEA diploma.
In general, it would be a matter for a host third level institution, in the context of academic autonomy, to decide what recognition, if any, it would give to such a qualification. It would also be a matter for the individual employer to decide on the matter.
