BTEC Introductory

The following set of frequently asked questions give information about the BTEC Introductory qualification.

BTEC Introductory FAQs

Question:What is a BTEC Introductory?
Answer:A BTEC Introductory is a new qualification. It acts as the first step on the BTEC ladder and gives you a broad introduction to a subject. It also gives you a flavour of how BTEC qualifications work.
  
Question:How many do I study?
Answer:You only study for one BTEC qualification at a time. This lets you build and focus your knowledge and skills in a particular area.
  
Question:How many units are there?
Answer:There are two qualifications. The BTEC Introductory Certificate has 4 units and the BTEC Introductory Diploma has 8 units.
  
Question:How long does it take to do one?
Answer:The BTEC Introductory Certificate normally has 180 learning hours and the BTEC Introductory Diploma has 360. Each qualification normally takes a year to complete because students tend to study part time for the Certificate and full time for the Diploma.
  
Question:Where can I study for a BTEC Introductory?
Answer:You can study for a BTEC Introductory course at your nearest approved centre. To find out which one is closest to you, please contact your local Edexcel regional office.
  
Question:Can I study part time?
Answer:Yes, you can study for both BTEC Introductory qualifications as you wish. So, if you want to study part time, full time or another way, there is no problem. The most important thing is that you study for the right number of hours.
  
Question:What can I do after I finish a BTEC Introductory?
Answer:Most students will go on to study a BTEC First after their BTEC Introductory. This will give them more knowledge and experience for working or studying. However, if you decide to take a BTEC Introductory you don’t have to carry on taking BTECs – you can revert to GCSEs and A-levels if you prefer.
  
Question:Who normally takes a BTEC Introductory?
Answer:Anyone can take BTEC Introductory qualifications – we would expect that students aged around 15 would be interested, as well as people at work who may want to get back into education.
  
Question:What subjects are available?
Answer:You can take a BTEC Introductory in Health & Social Care, Hospitality, Travel & Tourism, IT or Performing Arts. There will be even more choice from September 2004 – watch this space.
  
Question:Will a BTEC Introductory help me get a job?
Answer:BTEC Introductory qualifications are designed to give you a start in learning about a new area. We would recommend that you study for at least one more BTEC qualification before entering the workplace, so that you have enough skills and knowledge to attract employers.