Difference between Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc.), HND, OND, and NCE – The controversy hovering around the differences between bachelor’s Degree (B.S.C), HND, OND, and SCE is getting high on a daily basis as different persons doing each of these programs do not want to accept what seems not to be equivalent, and what seems to be equivalent.
While on the other hand, most people see themselves as inferior to others. Some overlook others and some devalue their self because of the rumors of their program
It is important to note that each of these programs has its own uniqueness and value.. it may be quite surprising that one with your “term to be the least program” can get a job worth more than the person that got a degree.
In this article, we will first give explanations as to what these four different program means and then we will try to highlight the differences.
Meaning of Bachelor’s Degree
BSc, short for Bachelor of Science, is an undergraduate academic degree awarded to students who have completed a program of study in the field of science at a university.
Science covers all parts of science including social science. Typically one might say it focuses on physic, mathematics, biology, computer, environment, and other branches of engineering.
It is known to be the first degree immediately after your secondary school education. For persons in the arts field, it is regarded as a Bachelor of Arts.
Duration
The duration of a BSc program varies depending on the country and institution. In most cases, it takes three to four years to complete a BSc degree.
But some programs may be structured as joint honors degrees or include a year of industrial placement, which can extend the duration.
Composition
Students are exposed to a wide range of scientific concepts, theories, and practical applications in their chosen field of study.
The curriculum of a BSc program typically includes a combination of core courses, elective courses, and laboratory work
Core courses – provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and theories in their field.
Elective courses – allow students to specialize in specific areas of interest and explore advanced topics.
Laboratory work – an integral part of many BSc programs, providing hands-on experience and practical skills in conducting experiments, data analysis, and scientific research.
Meaning of HND
HND, which stands for Higher National Diploma is an award that is being given to students who have completed a two years or three years courses of study.
Note that students who do get this award do go for internship placement. And also to gain admission for this award you do not need to write a universal tertiary matriculation examination but you only write an entrance examination.
It is a vocational and professional qualification that provides students with practical skills and knowledge in a specific field of study.
Duration of the program
The duration of an HND program is typically two years of full-time study, although some institutions may offer part-time or flexible study options.
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Composition of the program
The curriculum of an HND program consists of a combination of core modules and specialized modules related to the chosen field of study
Core modules – cover foundational knowledge and skills necessary for the overall understanding of the subject area
Specialized modules – delve deeper into specific topics and provide practical training in relevant techniques and practices
Assessment methods – HND programs include a mix of coursework, practical assignments, examinations, and project work
OND
OND, which stands for Ordinary National Diploma is an award that is being given to a student who has completed a two years course in a polytechnic.
Its programs are offered by polytechnics, colleges of technology, and other vocational institutions. Persons with this degree can now gain admission to study for a higher national diploma award.
After getting a higher national diploma award you can be offered a direct entry admission into 200l in a university of your choice if you meet the requirement or terms and conditions.
Duration of the program
The duration of an OND program is typically two to three years of full-time study, depending on the country and institution.
NCE
NCE, which stands for National Certificate of Education, is an award that is given to graduates of the College of Education. The course duration is usually three years.
Most graduates of these courses do go through four years if he or she has taken a pre-NCE course before their first level of admission.
It is a teacher education program that prepares individuals for a career in teaching at the primary or secondary school level.
NCE programs focus on developing pedagogical skills, subject knowledge, and classroom management abilities necessary for effective teaching and learning.
| S/N |
B.S.C |
HND |
OND |
NCE |
| 1. | It is also known as the Bachelor of Science | It is also known as Higher National Diploma | It is known as Ordinary National Diploma | It is otherwise known as Nigeria Certificate in Education |
| 2. | It is earned after completion of a four to five years course | Earned after the completion of a two to three years course | Earned after the completion of a two years course | Earned after the completion of three to four years of courses |
| 3. | The institution of the award is a university | Awarded to graduates of state universities or polytechnics | Awarded to graduates of polytechnic | Awarded to graduates of the colleges of education |
| 4. | Awarded to fields such as math, natural science, and social sciences | Awarded to fields like engineering, business, computing | Awarded to fields like engineering, business, computing | Awarded to graduates of music, political science, economics, CRS, early childhood education and care, primary education studies, etc. |
| 5. | To gain admission to study this award you need to write JAMB with a combination of required SSCE grades | Entrance examination, test, or screening is the pathway to admission for this award | You have to write Jamb and then post UTME | To gain admission to study this award you need to write JAMB with a combination of required SSCE grades |
6. |
Focuses on broader and theoretical based education | Focuses on practical and skills development education | Focuses on-hand training, and development of practical competencies, incorporates workshops, industrial training, and internships | Focuses on theoretical knowledge, practical experience in teaching |
| 7. | Assessment methods include tests, research projects, theses, internships,s or work placement | Assessment methods include coursework, practical assignment, examination, and project | Assessment methods include continuous assessment, practical assignment, examination, and project work | Assessment methods include continuous assessment, written assignments, practical teaching evaluations, and examinations. It may also include a teaching portfolio |
Frequently Asked Questions on Bachelor’s Degree
What is the full meaning of HND, OND, and BSC?
HND stands for higher national Diploma, OND stands for ordinary national Diploma, and BSC stands for Bachelor of Science
Between BSC, HND, OND, and NCE which is the highest?
The Bachelor of Science is the highest degree followed by the higher national Diploma
Conclusion
This article gives you a detailed explanation of each of the educational awards, the duration, and composition.
It also takes the differences of this educational qualification in a tabular form.
