Tertiary education
historyTertiary education, also referred to as third stage, third level, '''and post-secondary education,''' is the educational level following the completion of a school providing a secondary education, such as a high school, secondary school, or gymnasium. Higher education is taken to include undergraduate and postgraduate education, while vocational education and training beyond secondary education is known as further education in the United Kingdom, or higher education in the United States.
Colleges, universities, institutes of technology and polytechnics are the main institutions that provide tertiary education (sometimes known collectively as tertiary institutions). Tertiary education generally culminates in the receipt of certificates, diplomas, or academic degrees.
Usage in varying national contexts
United Kingdom
"Tertiary education" includes further education (FE), as well as higher education (HE). Since the 1970s specialised FE colleges called “tertiary colleges” have been set up to offer courses such as A Levels, that allow progression to HE, alongside vocational courses.
In some areas where schools do not universally offer sixth forms, tertiary colleges function as a sixth form college as well as a general FE college. Unlike sixth form colleges, the staff join lecturers' rather than teachers' unions.
- Education Index
- Education by country
- List of colleges and universities by country
References
"Tertiary Education"
»Quality Research International - (Glossary)