The term third level degree qualification is often used by students, international applicants, and professionals who are trying to understand how degrees fit within the UK and European education systems. It can be confusing because “third level” is not a commonly used term in everyday UK education, yet it is frequently used in official documents, overseas qualifications, and international comparisons.
This guide explains third level degree qualification clearly, in a UK-focused and practical way. It covers what third level means, which qualifications fall under it, how UK degrees fit into this category, and how employers and universities interpret it.
What Does “Third Level” Mean in Education?
Understanding the Term “Third Level”
“Third level education” generally refers to education after secondary school. In many systems, education is divided into three broad stages:
First level – Primary education
Second level – Secondary education (GCSEs or equivalent)
Third level – Higher education
So, a third level degree qualification means a higher education qualification, usually studied at a university or higher education institution.
Third Level Education in the UK Context
Is “Third Level” an Official UK Term?
In the UK, the phrase “third level” is not commonly used in domestic education policy. Instead, the UK uses qualification levels such as Level 4, Level 5, Level 6, and Level 7.
However, when UK institutions or employers refer to “third level qualifications,” they are almost always talking about higher education degrees.
UK Framework for Higher Education Levels
UK higher education qualifications are mapped to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).
Under these frameworks:
Level 4–8 are considered higher education
Degree-level study begins at Level 6
This is where third level degree qualifications sit.
What Is a Third Level Degree Qualification in the UK?
In UK terms, usually refers to one of the following:
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Doctoral degree
These are all classified as higher education qualifications.
Types of Third Level Degree Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate Degree)
A bachelor’s degree is the most common third level degree qualification.
Key features:
UK Level 6
Typically 3 years full-time
Awarded as BA, BSc, BEng, LLB, etc.
It demonstrates advanced academic knowledge and independent learning skills.
Integrated Master’s Degree
Some degrees combine undergraduate and postgraduate study.
Key features:
Level 7 outcome
Usually 4 years full-time
Common in engineering and science
Although longer, it is still considered third level education.
Master’s Degree (Postgraduate Degree)
A master’s degree represents advanced third level study.
Key features:
UK Level 7
Typically 1 year full-time
Focus on advanced theory, research, or professional practice
Common awards include MA, MSc, MBA, and LLM.
Doctoral Degree (PhD or Professional Doctorate)
Doctoral degrees are the highest form of third level qualification.
Key features:
UK Level 8
Focus on original research or advanced professional contribution
Required for academic and research careers
Third Level Degree vs Third Level Qualification
Important Distinction
Not all third level qualifications are degrees.
Third level qualifications include:
Degrees (Level 6–8)
Higher education diplomas
Foundation degrees
A third level degree qualification specifically refers to degree awards, not certificates or diplomas.
Third Level Degree Qualification Compared to Other Levels
| Education Stage | UK Level | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Secondary education | Level 2–3 | GCSEs, A-levels |
| Higher education (non-degree) | Level 4–5 | HNC, HND |
| Third level degree | Level 6 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Advanced third level | Level 7–8 | Master’s, PhD |
This table helps clarify where degree qualifications sit.
How Employers View Third Level Degree Qualifications in the UK
UK employers generally interpret a third level degree qualification as:
Evidence of advanced education
Proof of analytical and problem-solving skills
Preparation for professional or managerial roles
Many job descriptions state:
“Degree or equivalent qualification”
This refers directly to third level degree qualifications.
International Use of the Term “Third Level Degree”
The phrase is commonly used in:
Ireland
European Union documentation
International qualification assessments
Visa and credential evaluation processes
In these contexts, a UK bachelor’s or master’s degree clearly qualifies as a third level degree qualification.
Third Level Degree Qualification for Immigration and Applications
When asked whether you hold a “third level degree qualification,” you should answer yes if you have:
A UK bachelor’s degree
A UK master’s degree
An equivalent overseas degree recognised at Level 6 or above
Certificates and diplomas below degree level do not usually qualify.
Common Misunderstandings
“Third Level Means Third Year”
Incorrect. It refers to the level of education, not the year of study.
“Third Level Is Only University”
Mostly correct. Third level education is primarily university-based, though some higher education colleges also deliver it.
“Level 5 Is a Third Level Degree”
Incorrect. Level 5 is higher education, but not a degree.
Real UK Examples
A BA Business Management holder has a third level degree qualification
An MSc International Management graduate holds an advanced third level degree
A PhD holder has the highest level of third level education
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bachelor’s degree a third level degree qualification?
Yes. It is the standard third level degree.
Is a diploma a third level degree?
No. Only degrees qualify as third level degree qualifications.
Is a master’s degree also third level?
Yes. It is an advanced form of third level education.
Is third level the same as higher education?
In most contexts, yes.
Final Thoughts
A third level degree qualification refers to a university, most commonly a bachelor’s degree, and also includes master’s and doctoral degrees. In the UK, this corresponds to Level 6 and above within the national qualifications framework.
If you hold a recognised UK degree, you already possess a third level degree qualification. Understanding this terminology is especially important for international applications, immigration processes, and academic or professional progression.
