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Further Education Colleges are best known for the post-16 courses they offer, however some colleges also offer Higher Education courses. In addition to offering subjects similar to those available at universities, they may offer other areas of study, tailored to meet local needs and niche markets. Check carefully which subjects your local college offers and the flexible options they have that may enable you to attend on a full-time, part time or evening basis.
College staff, like those at universities, are well qualified, often practitioners in the vocational subjects they teach with close links to relevant local industry, businesses and other professional organisations. Colleges can provide opportunities for work experience related to courses and have staff able to provide support for those who have particular learning support requirements or who need careers guidance and counselling.
The number of taught hours for a course is frequently higher and teaching is in smaller groups in colleges than at many universities. So you may feel that a local college could provide a more supportive and familiar environment for your higher education study.
The qualification you will receive when you complete your course successfully is equivalent to any similar university course. Links between colleges and universities mean that there may be opportunities that allow a period of study at a Further Education College followed by a period at a university to top-up your qualification to one at a higher level..
Financial Support
As a student studying a higher education course at FE colleges you would be eligible for the same financial support for tuition fees and student loans as those studying at university. FE Colleges like universities also have Access Funds available for those in particular financial difficulties.
Application
You should apply for most full-time higher education courses through UCAS. For part time courses enquiries should be made to the individual college and they will advise you of the application route for the course you are interested in.
All applications to higher education courses are considered carefully by the colleges.
Not everyone is interviewed before they receive notification of whether their application has been successful. However, if you would like to discuss your application for any reason, then colleges are often happy to arrange for an interview.
To find out more about colleges in the Greater Manchester area please go to http://www.college4us.com
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