What Level Is the NEBOSH General Certificate?

The NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety is one of the most recognised health and safety qualifications worldwide. It is classified as a “Level 3” qualification, but what does that actually mean, and how does it compare to other “Level 3” health and safety qualifications?

After advising thousands of learners, I’ve seen firsthand how understanding the level of a qualification and how you might progress afterwards helps customers to produce the right course for their career goals.

What Does the Level 3 Mean for the NEBOSH General Certificate?

In the UK, qualifications are assigned a level on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) or the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) in Scotland.

The NEBOSH General Certificate is set at RQF Level 3 (or SCQF Level 6 in Scotland). This is roughly the same academic level as an A-level.

However, the “Level 3” label doesn’t mean it’s easy or basic. It simply reflects the depth of knowledge and skills expected. Level 3 qualifications require you to:

• Understand detailed principles and apply them to real-world scenarios.
• Analyse and evaluate information, not just recall facts.
• Produce structured, evidence-based written work (especially in the NG2 risk assessment assignment).

From my experience helping learners start the course, I’d say the jump in workload can be significant, especially for those who haven’t studied for a while. Many learners come to Astutis thinking “it’s just a certificate,” and are surprised by how rigorous it is. That’s not a bad thing; it’s what makes the qualification respected by employers across the globe.

Is the NEBOSH General Certificate Equivalent to NVQ Level 3?

In terms of academic level, the NEBOSH General Certificate sits at the same RQF level as an NVQ Level 3. But the way they are assessed and what they focus on are quite different. For most people aiming to progress in health and safety, the NEBOSH General Certificate is the stronger choice.

• NEBOSH General Certificate – Knowledge-based qualification with structured, externally marked assessments. It’s designed to give you a deep, transferable understanding of health and safety principles, legislation, and practical application. It’s recognised globally by employers, making it a powerful CV booster whether you’re new to the field or aiming for a promotion.
• NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Health and Safety – Work-based qualification where you compile evidence from your current role to prove competence. It can be valuable if you’re already in a health and safety position, but it doesn’t deliver the same breadth of theoretical knowledge or international recognition as NEBOSH.

Having worked with thousands of learners at Astutis, I’ve consistently seen the NEBOSH General Certificate open more doors once completed. Many learners choose NEBOSH after discovering how widely respected it is, both in the UK and overseas. In fact, some complete the NEBOSH General Certificate first to gain credibility and knowledge, then choose the NVQ later to formalise workplace competence.

Other Level 3 Qualifications for Health and Safety

If you’re weighing up the NEBOSH General Certificate, you might also come across:

• NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Health and Safety – Similar level, but less widely recognised by employers internationally.
• Level 3 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace – Usually a short course covering basics; not as comprehensive as NEBOSH.

From employer feedback we’ve gathered over the years, the NEBOSH General Certificate tends to be the preferred choice for career development because of its depth, global recognition, and the doors it opens for further study.

What Level of Qualification Comes After the General Certificate?

The next step up is the NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals, which is set at RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree).

The Diploma is a significant step up; it dives into legal frameworks, risk management systems, and strategic leadership in health and safety. Many learners at Astutis follow a path like this:

1. NEBOSH General Certificate – To gain core knowledge and credibility.
2. Specialist NEBOSH Certificates – For example, NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety or NEBOSH Certificate in Environmental Management, to develop expertise in niche areas.
3. NEBOSH Diploma – To achieve higher-level roles, such as Health and Safety Manager or Consultant.

Although this is a typical journey we have seen in the past, some learners choose to do the specialist courses after completing their Diploma.

One learner I supported recently used this exact route. After completing the General Certificate, she landed a Health and Safety Advisor role. Two years later, with her Diploma in hand, she was promoted to Health and Safety Manager for a multinational manufacturing company.

The NEBOSH General Certificate’s Level 3 status makes it a challenging but achievable qualification for people at many career stages, from complete newcomers to those already working in health and safety. It’s a respected benchmark of competence, and for many of our learners, it’s the key that unlocks the next stage of their career.

If you’re unsure whether it’s the right step for you, my advice is simple: look at where you want to be in two to five years. If your goal involves a career in health and safety, this qualification is one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself.

Build a strong foundation for your health and safety skillset with the NEBOSH General Certificate below. Alternatively, you can find more NEBOSH General Certificate-related blogs below.