Posted By Karel Simpson Hi PAul I am currently studying for the National Diploma via e-learning. Without obviously knowing too much about your background etc is how I am making my comments. I have completed the NEBOSH General Certificate for which I was awarded a credit, I did not put as much effort as I should of for this due to time restraints. However with the diploma it is a completely different ball game, I had the option of the NVQ Level 4 but chose the Diploma because of it's academic side as I do not have any other qualifications so though this route would be needed. However if you have a degree etc and are happy with your knowledge and are just after proving competence then the NVQ Level 4 may be a better option. One thing I will say is the diploma is a huge step up from the General Certificate and will need a lot of time and effort to achieve. i hope this helps, you may also be better posting this in the study forum. regards Karel