The HNC is equivalent to the first year of university in the United Kingdom and the Certificate of Higher Education but being less extensive than that of a Higher National Diploma (HND). Studied full-time, the qualification normally takes one year or two years part-time.[2] Many HNCs cover the same areas as an HND and it is often possible to complete an HND with one year full-time study after successfully completing the HNC. Also, it is possible to be awarded a HNC on a two year full-time HND course, if the student has unsuccessfully completed the second year of their studies, aslong as they successfully completed the first year of the HND.[3]