Posted By Michael.Armstrong Hello, I recently passed the NEBOSH certificate course and am looking into possibility of doing the Nebosh Diploma. However a local college runs the Nottingham Trent Diploma course on a part time basis. Has anyone on the forum taken this course in the past?, I would be interested to hear hopw they found it and how long it would realistically take to pass, is it a bridge too far having only just passed the certificate?, I passed with a distinction but am not a practitioner although about 50% of my work involves H&S, Coshh assesments, risk assessments, fire and alarm systems and testing etc. According to the college blurb it is a better qualification than the NEBOSH Diploma, what does anyone else think. I am committed to furthering my education in H&S and there is a good chance that my company will sponsor me, I would appreciate any advice. Thanks to all Michael

Posted By David Onigbanjo Hi Michael, It may be worth looking at the wider possibilities, for the same price as the NEBOSH Diploma you may be able to do post graduate studies(e.g. PG Dip. or PG Cert.) , which may include - or could lead towards a masters degree I know there have been previous discussions around the merits of diplomas versus degrees, but in my (limited) experience I have found that employers seem to be clear about degrees, and less clear about the status of a diploma. I am sure IOSH HQ staff could help out with a list of course providers in your area. Whatever you decide, I wish you all the best. Regards, Dave O.

Posted By Adrian Clifton Michael As a former student of Nottingham Trent Uni, I can tell you that the course, due to being crammed in to 12 months, is quite intense and needs a fair ammount of time, both at Uni and at home. You will need to set aside around 20 hours per week to comfortably complete your studies, assignments and final dissertation. Having said all that (which may sound like bad news) I personally enjoyed (if that's the right word) the experience and would reccomend it to anyone who is serious about qualifications for their future. The level of support you receive is excellent. The NTU Diploma is equivalent to NEBOSH Parts 1 & 2 and the cost is much less. It is a well respected and recognised qualification within the field of H & S. I would only say to you, GO FOR IT, as I did and the rewards, both financially and personally, will be well worth the effort. I hope that this has given you encouragement and answered your questions. I wish you the very best for the future. Adrian Clifton MIOSH (currently self-employed,well paid and thoroughly enjoying it.

Posted By Michael.Armstrong Thanks to all for advice, I think it is the route to take in my position. Sorry I havent replied to offlist e-mails, I have been away for two weeks on Hols, will do so soon. Regards Michael

Posted By Andy Maguire Michael, I completed the NTU Diploma on a part time basis over 2 years and confirm that 1. Its hard work 2. Employers treat it equally to the NEBOSH Diploma 3. Its an excellent course providing a good level of knowledge across a wide range of topics. If you are contemplating studying for it other than at the NTU it would be worth seeing if you can have access to the course materials or speak with someone who completed the course at that college. Whilst the college has to meet the minimum requirements of the NTU to keep its franchise, the quality of course materials can vary greatly. Regards Andy