If you are looking to do a master’s in the United States, you might want to know if your qualifications will be acceptable.
It is a frequent question for international students who have Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) or did their undergraduates with Second Class or Third Class honors.
The good news is that some USA universities, colleges, and schools accept HND certificates, Second Class, and 3rd Class for Masters programs.
In this article, we’ll discuss what these qualifications are and how you can use them to pursue a master’s degree in the USA. We’ll also look at what types of institutions will accept these qualifications and offer some practical advice for ensuring your application is successful.
What is an HND, and How Does it Stand Globally?
Before diving into individual US universities, there’s a necessity to understand what an HND certificate is. An HND, or Higher National Diploma, is a vocational qualification that’s mostly awarded in the UK, Nigeria, and other Commonwealth countries.
It’s usually achieved in two years and is focused on practical knowledge and skills in niche areas like engineering, business, or IT.
An HND is typically worth the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. This means it’s not the same as a complete bachelor’s degree but is a qualification in its own right.
Many students with an HND want to continue their studies at master’s level, but the route can be a bit more complicated in some countries, especially the USA.
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What Does Second Class and Third Class Mean?
If you hear Second Class or Third Class in graduates’ degrees, it is usually the division or classification of the undergraduate degree results.
- Second Class (Upper or Lower Division): This is a good performance but not the best. It is normally split into Second Class Upper (2:1) and Second Class Lower (2:2), with 2:1 being the higher grade.
- Third Class: This is the lowest degree of honors and indicates passing marks only.
These classifications are utilized in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK extensively. However, can these classifications be utilized for admission into master’s programs in the US?
Can USA Universities Accept HND Certificates for Masters?
The answer is yes, but this is dependent on the university and their own admissions criteria. The majority of USA universities, schools, and colleges that admit HND certificates, Second Class, and 3rd Class for Masters take the overall profile of the applicant into consideration.
This includes work experience, referees, statement of purpose, and, on some occasions, additional tests or bridge courses.
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Why Some Universities Accept HND for Masters
HND holders who have substantial work experience or other qualifications can show that they have the potential to work at the graduate level.
There are bridge courses or top-up programs offered in some universities to enable one to transition from an HND to a full bachelor’s degree before enrolling in a master’s.
Not every university requires the First Class bachelor’s degree. Most consider other factors.
What About Second Class and Third Class Degree Holders?
Admission committees tend to look at the overall application and not just the degree class. If you have a Second Class or Third Class degree and would like to apply for a master’s degree in the USA, here is what you need to know:
- Second Class (Upper or Lower): Second class lower is accepted by most US universities, but upper second class is ideal. If you fall in this range, you have a good chance, especially if you have work experience or excellent GRE/GMAT scores.
- Third Class: This can be more difficult since it is the lowest honors degree class. That being said, there are a few universities which do accept applicants who have third class if they can show ability in alternative ways, e.g., through extensive professional experience, excellent letters of recommendation, or good exam scores.
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Things You Need To Know and Do Before Applying
To have a chance of admission to compete with BSc holders to be admitted to USA universities that accept HND certificates, Second Class, and 3rd Class for Masters, completing with a Distinction or Upper Credit gives you an edge.
The majority of the institutions require your HND and ND certificates and transcripts to be evaluated by WES or any other approved organization. A course-by-course WES evaluation translates your marks into the U.S. format, explaining your credits, GPA (on a 4.0 scale), and academic history.
Adding tests like GRE or TOEFL also strengthens your application. Also, prepare all supporting documents and apply early to make an impression.
List of USA Universities, Colleges, and Schools That Accept HND Certificates, Second Class, and 3rd Class for Masters
Although not exhaustive, the following are some types of institutions and examples that are ready to accept students with HND certificates or lower classes:
1. State Universities with Flexible Admissions
There are state universities with flexible admissions that consider students on a case-by-case basis. These include:
- University of Southern California (USC)
- Arizona State University
- University of Central Florida
- California State University system
These universities typically require evidence of academic potential beyond transcripts. They may also require additional preparatory courses, English proficiency, or the GRE/GMAT.
2. Private Universities with a Reputation for Inclusivity
Some smaller private universities and colleges focus on practical experience and diverse student bodies. Some include:
- Liberty University
- Walden University
- DeVry University
These universities typically work with students who have HND certificates, especially in fields like IT, business, and engineering.
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3. Bridge Program or Top-Up Degree Providing Universities
A few universities have agreements with colleges or international universities to allow students to “top-up” their HND credentials to a full bachelor’s degree. Students can become qualified for a direct master’s program after completion.
- Northeastern University
- University of Houston
- Florida International University
These universities may also admit Second Class or Third Class honors with some additional academic preparation.
How to Improve Your Chances of Admission with HND or Lower Degree Classifications
Entry into a master’s program in the USA with a Second/Third Class degree or HND certificate requires some extra effort but is possible. Here are helpful tips:
1. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Relevant work experience might, at times, compensate for lower academic achievement. Admissions officials put a high value on real-world experience, especially for courses like business, engineering, or computer science.
2. Sit for Standardized Tests
GRE or GMAT scores can prove your academic abilities. A good score can balance concerns about your degree class.
3. Prepare a Strong Personal Statement
Explain your academic background, motivation for pursuing a master’s, and how your qualifications—HND or second/third class degree—have prepared you for graduate school.
4. Obtain Recommendations
Good letters of recommendation from academic tutors or employers can strengthen your application.
5. Take Bridge or Foundation Courses
Some universities offer these courses to prepare your skills for starting a master’s.
6. Apply to Multiple Schools
Expanding the applications enhances your chances of being accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join a master’s program directly with an HND in the USA?
Sometimes yes, but more often you will need to undertake additional coursework or a top-up degree first. Some universities accept HND holders directly if they have professional experience and good test results.
Does a Third Class degree shut doors for me?
It will close some doors but does not rule out possibilities. Good professional experience, good test results, and a clear motivation can still get you in.
Will I need to prove English proficiency?
Yes. Most US universities require TOEFL or IELTS scores from international students for whom English is not their first language.
Are there specific fields where HND holders are in the advantage?
Fields like IT, business administration, engineering, and hospitality have a tendency to value HND qualifications since they are focused on practical capabilities.
Conclusion
In summary, even if you hold an HND qualification or Second Class or Third Class undergraduate degree, there is still a way for you to study a master’s degree in the USA.
Through understanding the status of your qualification, finding universities with lower admission requirements, and strengthening your overall application based on work experience and test scores, you can open the door to advanced level study.
Remember, there are USA universities, colleges, and schools that accept HND certificates, Second Class, and 3rd Class for Masters, and they value a broader perspective of an applicant over grades.
References
- worldscholarshipforum.net – USA Universities, Colleges and Schools that Accept HND Certificates, Second Class and 3rd Class for Masters
- www.scholarshipregion.com – Explainer: Universities in the USA that accept HND for Masters and Graduate Studies
