About Higher Education

Higher Education is learning at University level, usually defined as a course that is classed at Level 4 or above Courses include Higher National Certificates/Diplomas, Foundation Degrees, First Degrees or work based qualifications such as NVQ Level 4 leading to Post Graduate Degrees and Doctorates.

Entry Requirements & Course Information

To progress into Higher Education, you would usually require a Level 3 or equivalent qualification such as A Levels, National Certificate/Diploma, NVQ Level 3 or an Access to HE Diploma.

Experience Counts

Many of our mature students (over 21) have a wealth of work and life experience, but no formal academic qualifications. Sometimes mature students with relevant experience will be accepted on to our Higher Education courses without the full criteria. Don’t let age, or lack of academic qualifications prevent you from enquiring about a HE course, our friendly and experienced staff will discuss the possibilities with you.

Foundation Degrees Explained

A Foundation Degree is different from a conventional Degree, as it has been developed directly with industry professionals and employers to meet the specialist skills and knowledge required for that industry. It provides a way for you to improve your qualifications and career prospects whilst in employment.
Foundation Degrees are relatively new qualifications that started in 2000. They can be studied part-time (with a work placement element). Some Foundation Degrees are delivered on a full-time basis for those groups of learners who are not in employment. In most cases you will be able to ‘top-up’
your Foundation Degree by progressing on to the final year of a BA (Hons), BSc (Hons) or BEng (Hons) Degree at University.

So Why Choose A Foundation Degree?

• They are open to all ages of learners with the appropriate qualifications
• They are exactly what you will need to launch your career
• You will work on practical projects which simulate real industry environments
• They are just what employers are looking for
• You will be able to study while you work
• They provide a mix of both academic and practical skills
• You will receive a high level of support
• They have agreed progression routes to professional qualifications and ‘top-up’ degrees