Many years ago, holders of Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) who wanted to upgrade their qualifications to a university degree had only one option: applying through Direct Entry (DE) via the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) or through the HND to BSc conversion programme.
At that time, HND holders were required to start from the 200 level in the university, after already spending five years (depending on the entry mode) at the polytechnic.
Those admitted through DE would typically spend three years completing a four-year program such as Accounting and Mass Communication or four years in the case of a five-year program such as civil engineering engineering.
However, with the introduction of the HND conversion program (also known as the top-up program) by various universities across Nigeria, HND holders now have an alternative to DE. The conversion program allows them to upgrade their HND to a university degree.
Why bother about a BSc when you already have an HND?
The marginalization and stigmatization faced by HND holders in the workplace often make the HND certificate seem inferior. Even though the Nigerian government claims that HND holders should be treated equally, it is often found violating this principle.
In government ministries, departments, and agencies, HND holders are not placed on the same level or grade as their BSc counterparts.
Although in some countries BSc and HND holders are treated equally, that is not the case in Nigeria. This is one of the main reasons for the proliferation of HND conversion programmes and the decision of a state government such as Lagos to upgrade Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) to Lagos State University of Science and Technology, following the signing of a bill into law by the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on February 2, 2022.
So, for those with an HND who are determined to obtain a university degree, the question is: should they go through Direct Entry or opt for the top-up program?
To help make a more informed decision, let’s compare the time commitment for each mode of entry.
Direct Entry Mode
The DE path begins at the 200 level, though in rare cases, applicants have been able to convince the admissions unit to start at the 300 level. Here’s the typical timeline:
Five years at the polytechnic: two years for the Ordinary National Diploma (OND), one year for Industrial Training (IT), and two more years for the HND.
If a candidate gains admission through DE, they will spend another three years to complete a BSc, making it a total of eight years to obtain a university degree.
HND Conversion
In the case of the HND conversion program:
After completing the same five years for the HND, candidates spend an additional two academic sessions in the top-up program, making it a total of seven years.
However, this could extend to eight years for institutions that require an NYSC discharge certificate for top-up admission.
Conclusion:
I believe the HND conversion program is better than the DE route for the following reasons:
Applicants have an edge in the job market over their DE counterparts because they can work while studying.
The top-up program offers flexibility, as it typically runs on weekends and is treated as part-time, unlike the DE route, which is full-time.
Though the tuition fees for the top-up program may be slightly higher, many universities in Nigeria offer installment payment plans, making it more convenient.
On the other hand, if you want to experience the full student life, including participating in campus activities like student unionism, the Direct Entry route might be more appealing. HND conversion candidates generally don’t enjoy this political freedom.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, depending on your main objective—whether it’s bridging the gap between your HND and a university degree or immersing yourself in campus’ social activities.
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