International Higher Education Diploma (IHED)

The International Higher Education Diploma (IHED) is a 60-credit Level 3 programme for international learners preparing to progress to higher education in the UK. Study 100% online with weekly live sessions via Zoom and choose a specialist pathway in Business Studies, Computing or Healthcare Professions.

IHED develops the subject knowledge, academic skills, independent research ability and assessment experience needed for university-level study. The programme is based on the LASER Learning Awards International Higher Education Programme and uses a detailed numerical grading model across every unit.

• Qualification: International Higher Education Diploma (IHED)
• Level: Level 3
• Credit value: 60 graded credits
• Awarding Organisation: LASER Learning Awards
• Delivery: 100% online
• Live teaching: Weekly sessions via Zoom
• Pathways: Business Studies, Computing and Healthcare Professions
• Purpose: Preparation for application and progression to higher education in the UK
• Assessment: Assignments, portfolios, presentations, practical or technical tasks and examinations

The International Higher Education Diploma is a Level 3 university-preparation programme for international students. It provides 60 graded credits through subject-specific study and academic skills development, helping learners prepare for undergraduate study in the UK.

Learners complete at least 45 credits in subjects relevant to their chosen pathway. The remaining 15 credits include independent research and may also include subject-related or study-skills content such as academic writing, presentations, examination skills and research skills.

• Study from your home country without relocating for the foundation stage of your education.
• Attend weekly live online teaching sessions through Zoom.
• Access learning materials and activities online at a time that supports your study schedule.
• Choose a specialist pathway aligned with your intended university subject.
• Develop academic writing, research, presentation and examination skills.
• Receive clear assessment requirements and numerical feedback across four grading metrics.
• Build confidence for independent learning at a UK university.

The Business Studies pathway prepares learners for degrees in business, management, marketing, accounting, finance, entrepreneurship and related areas. Learners examine how organisations operate, communicate, manage finance, market products and services, lead people and develop new business ideas.

Core Units:

• The Nature and Context of Business
• Business Communication
• Business Financial Accounting
• Financial Planning in Business
• Marketing Principles and Implementation in Business
• Managing Human Resources for Business
• Setting Up a New Small Business
• Leadership and Management Skills

The Computing pathway prepares learners for degrees in computing, information technology, software development, cybersecurity, networking, web development and related digital disciplines. It combines computing theory with practical technical and problem-solving skills.

Core Units:

• Computer Architecture
• IT Systems Security
• Operating Systems and System Tools
• Programming Fundamentals
• Implementation of Programming Projects
• Creating Dynamic Responsive Websites
• Computer Networks and Data Communication
• Setting Up and Populating Tables in a Database Application
• IT Business Solutions
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and User Experience (UX)

The Healthcare Professions pathway prepares learners for progression to health science, biomedical, healthcare and related university degrees. Learners study human biology, body systems, disease, psychology, mental health, food additives and pharmacology in healthcare contexts.

Core Units:

• Cells, Tissues and Organs for Healthcare
• Blood, Circulation and Gaseous Exchange
• Digestion and the Liver
• Homeostasis for Healthcare
• Musculoskeletal System for Healthcare
• Disease and Body Defence
• Reproductive Biology for Healthcare
• Introduction to Psychology
• Psychology and Mental Health
• Drugs and Food Additives
• Pharmacology for Healthcare

IHED is assessed through a combination of assignments, portfolios, presentations, practical or technical activities and examinations. At least three and no more than six units must include examination assessment. The exact assessment method depends on the subject and the learning outcomes of each unit.

All learning outcomes and assessment criteria must be achieved before a unit can be graded. Once every requirement has been met, the completed unit is assessed using four grading metrics and receives a numerical score out of 100.

• Knowledge and understanding: what the learner knows and understands about the subject.
• Application of subject skills: how effectively the learner selects and applies academic, intellectual, practical or technical skills.
• Analysis, argument and response to the task: how well the learner answers the question, develops an argument or responds to the assessment task.
• Organisation and presentation: the clarity, structure, communication, referencing and use of relevant academic conventions.

Each grading metric carries up to 25 marks. The four marks are added together to calculate the overall unit score.

Applicants must normally hold IGCSE English, Mathematics and Combined Science - or individual IGCSE Biology and Chemistry - at a minimum of Grade 4 or equivalent international qualifications.

Every applicant should also check the subject, grade, English-language and other entry requirements of their intended university and degree course before enrolling.

IHED is designed as a pathway to higher education in the UK. Depending on the pathway completed and the admission requirements of the receiving university, learners may use it to support applications to related undergraduate courses.

• Business Studies: business management, marketing, accounting, finance, entrepreneurship and human resource management.
• Computing: computer science, information technology, software development, cybersecurity, networking, web development and information systems.
• Healthcare Professions: health science, biomedical and healthcare-related degrees, subject to any additional science, professional or placement requirements.

Completion of IHED does not guarantee admission. Universities set their own entry requirements and make individual admissions decisions.