European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 5

Fifth level of the European reference tool for the description and comparison of qualifications developed at national, international or sectoral level. The learning outcomes relevant to EQF level 5 are:

  • knowledge: comprehensive, specialised, factual and theoretical knowledge within a field of work or study and an awareness of the boundaries of that knowledge;
  • skills: a comprehensive range of cognitive and practical skills required to develop creative solutions to abstract problems;
  • responsibility and autonomy:
    • exercise management and supervision in contexts of work or study activities where there is unpredictable change;
    • review and develop performance of self and others.
Comment

Examples of qualifications at EQF level 5:

  • United Kingdom:
    • England and Northern Ireland: Technical/vocational qualifications level 4, Higher national certificates (HNC), Technical/vocational qualifications level 5, Higher national diplomas (HND);
    • Scotland: Higher national diploma, Professional development award, Diploma of higher education, Higher apprenticeship, Technical apprenticeship (SVQ), Advanced higher awards, Scottish baccalaureate, Higher national certificate, Certificate of higher education, Modern apprenticeship (SVQ);
    • Wales: Foundation degree, Higher national diploma, Certificates of higher education, Higher national certificate;
  • Ireland: Advanced certificate (e.g. level 6 Advanced certificate in horticulture), Higher certificate, Professional award.
Source

Based on Council of the European Union, 2017; UNESCO, 2019.

Related term(s)
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF)
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 1
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 2
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 3
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 4
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 6
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 7
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 8
post-secondary (non-tertiary) education (ISCED level 4 – EQF level 5)
short-cycle tertiary education (ISCED level 5 – EQF level 5)
tertiary education and training (ISCED levels 5 to 8 – EQF levels 6 to 8)