Starting lower and working up (ladder progression)
Take the Level 6 or Level 7 version of the same course, which needs far fewer points, pass the years, then add the extra year that turns it into the honours degree. You end up with the Level 8, one year later than the direct route.
What you actually do
- 1Apply for the Level 6 or Level 7 version through the CAO as normal.
- 2Pass each year to the standard the college sets for progression.
- 3Apply internally for the add-on year that finishes the honours degree.
- 4Graduate with the Level 8 award.
The dates that matter
Normal CAO deadlines: 1 February, or 1 May for late applications.
The hard part, said plainly
Progression usually requires a minimum grade average, not just a pass, and the add-on year can be capped. Confirm the progression rule in writing before you commit to the lower level.
Courses you can get into this way
0 courses in our 2026 research set have this route. Type a course or college to narrow it down.
Questions students ask about this route
Can I move from a Level 7 to a Level 8 degree?
In most technological universities, yes. You complete the Level 7 to the required standard then take the add-on year, finishing with the honours degree.