If you’re planning a long-term career in construction – especially in site or project management – you’ve likely asked yourself one key question: Should I take the NVQ route or go for a university degree?
Both NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management and a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management or a related field can open doors to similar roles. But they take very different paths to get you there.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between NVQ Level 6 and a degree, including learning style, employer perception, CSCS card eligibility, and career outcomes – so you can choose the path that fits your goals.
An NVQ Level 6 is a work-based qualification that proves you have the skills and experience to manage construction projects effectively. It’s designed for experienced professionals already working in the industry, particularly those in supervisory or junior management roles.
Key features of NVQ Level 6:
At Think Construction Skills, we help you gain your NVQ Level 6 while you continue working, using on-site assessments, professional discussions, and portfolio evidence.
A degree in construction management is an academic qualification, typically completed over 3–4 years at a university. It covers a wide range of topics, including:
Degree programmes often include classroom-based learning, coursework, exams, and sometimes work placements.
Examples include:
While degrees provide strong theoretical grounding, they typically require full-time study and are best suited to school leavers or those new to the industry.
Both NVQ Level 6 and a Bachelor’s degree are classified as Level 6 qualifications on the UK’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). That means they are academically equivalent in level — but differ in approach and application.
| Qualification | RQF Level | Type |
|---|---|---|
| NVQ Level 6 | 6 | Work-based |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 6 | Academic |
| NVQ Level 3 | 3 | Vocational |
| A-Levels | 3 | Academic |
In the UK construction industry, employers are heavily focused on proven on-site competence — especially for roles involving site supervision and project delivery.
Many employers see NVQ Level 6 as the fastest and most relevant route for experienced professionals to move into leadership roles.
The Black CSCS Card (Manager level) is the benchmark for senior site roles in the UK.
To get this card, you must:
While some degrees are accepted by CSCS, the process is not as straightforward — and often requires additional evidence or training.
That’s why even degree holders later complete an NVQ to meet card requirements.
At Think Construction Skills, we guide you through NVQ assessment and CSCS card application, making the process simple and fast.
Both qualifications can lead to high-responsibility roles in construction, such as:
Salary potential varies based on experience, location, and employer — but roles requiring NVQ Level 6 or a degree typically start at £40,000+, rising to £60,000+ for senior positions.
However, many professionals with NVQ Level 6 can access these roles faster, especially if they’ve already built up years of site experience.
This route is ideal if you:
Think Construction Skills specialises in helping professionals like you get qualified fast, with minimal disruption to your work.
A degree may be better suited for:
For many, this is a longer-term investment — but it usually requires significant time, money, and commitment.
Yes — and many people do.
The two routes are complementary, and many professionals benefit from both at different stages of their careers.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — the right choice depends on your experience, goals, and learning style.
Choose an NVQ Level 6 if you:
Choose a Degree if you:
For experienced professionals, NVQ Level 6 offers a faster, cost-effective, and CSCS-compliant route into senior construction roles.
At Think Construction Skills, we help skilled professionals gain NVQ qualifications without leaving site or sitting exams. Our expert assessors support you through a streamlined, flexible process that fits around your job.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your CSCS card or take the next step in your career, we can help you gain your NVQ Level 6 quickly and affordably.
Get in touch today to start your journey into construction management — the smart way.
