THE TRINITY COLLEGE
AND UNIVERSITY


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Top-up degree programmes



ELEVATE YOUR CAREER WITH A BACHELOR TOP-UP DEGREE



Are you a professional with an HND, a Level 5 Diploma, or years of management experience? Don't let your academic journey stall at the halfway mark. The Trinity College and University (TCU) offers a streamlined Level 6 Top-Up pathway designed for the modern, work-integrated learner.


What is a Top-Up Degree?

A Top-Up degree is equivalent to the final year of a standard undergraduate degree. It is specifically designed for students who already hold a Level 5 qualification (such as an Associate Degree, HND, or Foundation Degree) or have several years working in industry, and wish to "top up" to a full Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) or Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons).


Our Specialised Top-Up Streams

We offer the following targeted programmes that align with high-growth industries in the current global economy.



BA in Business Studies



This BA Business Studies (Top-Up) is the flagship program for professionals seeking a comprehensive, 360-degree understanding of modern commerce.


It is specifically designed for those holding a Level 5 qualification (HND, Associate Degree, or equivalent) or with several years industry experience, who want to validate their experience through The Trinity College and University (TCU).


Course Overview:

  • Duration: 9 - 12 Months (Distance Learning)
  • EQF Level: Level 6 equivalence
  • Total Credits: 120 UK Credits (60 ECTS)
  • Methodology: Action Learning (IFAL) and Portfolio-based Assessment

This course turns general managers into versatile business leaders capable of navigating the complexities of the current global economy.


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BA in Human Resource Management



This BA Human Resource Management is designed for HR professionals and middle managers who hold a Level 5 qualification (HND, Associate Degree, or equivalent) and wish to transition into strategic HR leadership.


Validated by The Trinity College and University (TCU), this program aligns your practical HR experience with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 6.


Course Overview:

  • Duration: 9 - 12 Months (Distance Learning)
  • EQF Level: Level 6 equivalence
  • Total Credits: 120 UK Credits (60 ECTS)
  • Methodology: Action Learning (IFAL) and Portfolio-based Assessment

The course is designed to move the student from "Administrative HR" to "Strategic HR Business Partnering."


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BA in Marketing



This BA Marketing is designed for marketing practitioners, digital strategists, and brand managers who hold a Level 5 qualification (HND, Associate Degree, or equivalent) or have 5+ years of practical industry experience.


This program focuses on the shift from "Tactical Marketing" to Strategic Growth Leadership, utilizing Action Learning to solve high-stakes commercial challenges in real-time.


Course Overview:

  • Duration: 9 - 12 Months (Distance Learning)
  • EQF Level: Level 6 equivalence
  • Total Credits: 120 UK Credits (60 ECTS)
  • Methodology: 100% Coursework and Portfolio assessment

The course is designed to address the volatility of the current digital landscape, focusing on AI-integration, ethical branding, and data-driven ROI.


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BA in Health and Social Care



This BA in Health and Social Care is designed for practitioners, supervisors, and community leaders who already hold, or are working towards a Level 5 qualification (HND, Associate Degree, or Nursing/Social Work Diploma).


The program focuses on the transition from "frontline delivery" to strategic health management, utilizing the Action Learning framework to solve real-world healthcare challenges.


Course Overview:

  • Duration: 9 - 12 Months (Distance Learning)
  • EQF Level: Level 6 equivalence
  • Total Credits: 120 UK Credits (60 ECTS)
  • Methodology: Work-Integrated Learning (No traditional exams)

The course is designed to address the complexities of modern healthcare systems, including aging populations, mental health integration, and digital records.


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BA in Leadership and Management



This BA in Leadership and Management is a specialized Level 6 qualification that bridges the gap between mid-level supervision and senior strategic leadership.


While a standard Business degree is broad, this program focuses specifically on the psychology of leadership, organizational agility, and the "Human-in-the-Loop" management of AI technologies.


Course Overview:

  • Duration: 9 - 12 Months (Distance Learning)
  • EQF Level: Level 6 equivalence
  • Total Credits: 120 UK Credits (60 ECTS)
  • Methodology: 100% coursework and professional portfolio assessment

The course is designed to help individuals focus in on and develop key leadership and management attributes.


Learn More

the tcu advantage



Action Learning At TCU, we don't just teach theory we facilitate Action. Our pedagogy follows the Reg Revans (IFAL) Model, where your current workplace becomes your laboratory.


L (Learning) = P + Q
P (Programmed Knowledge): Access 2026 industry insights and frameworks through our digital LMS.

Q (Questioning Insight): Apply that knowledge to a "live" project in your organization to solve real-world problems.


Combining your achievements, both learned and experienced, with the fundamentals of Action Learning, we aim to put you in pole position for your future.



entry requirements and apl fast-track



We recognize that many experts have gained degree-level knowledge through their careers. Our Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) service allows you to claim credits for:

  • Certificated Learning: Previous diplomas, professional licenses, or industry certifications.
  • Experiential Learning: Documented management experience, project leadership, and hands-on technical experience.

Standard Entry: Completion of a UK Level 5 qualification (or international equivalent)

Professional Entry: 5+ years of relevant experience (subject to APL portfolio audit),

or a combination of the two.


All courses can be used as a pathway to Master level top-up programmes at universities across UK, US and Australia, which can be studied on site or remotely.





“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”



– Nelson Mandela



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