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UPDATED:
Feb 10, 2009 04:59 PM
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 Adult Learners 19+Information for mature students wishing to take a geology degree 19+ Student Profiles
The Geology Department welcomes applications from mature students. Every year we typically graduate between four and seven students who were 21 or over when they started their degree. As a result we have extensive experience of dealing with the particular needs that being an adult learner brings. We aim to make returning to study an enjoyable and rewarding experience. You are welcome to arrange a visit to the Department to see what we have to offer, to meet some of our present mature students, and discuss your qualifications in more detail. Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a mature student?Anyone 19 or over who has not come direct from school or college via the “standard” route of A-levels in year 13 is a mature student. Whether you are over the ages of 21 or 25 may have some implications for entry requirements and funding respectively, but otherwise age is immaterial. Approximately one third of our intake is 19 or over on commencing their degree, although this figure includes gap year students as well.
Will I fit in?We often find that mature students may be slightly nervous about going into Higher Education, one reason amongst many being that they are concerned as to how they will fit in with younger students straight from college. The Geology department at Leicester is an extremely friendly and interactive environment for all our students and mature students settle in quickly. We find that our mature students, with their broader perspectives and experience, are very much valued by their peers. Students over 21 make up 13% of the full time undergraduates on campus and the Department and University offer a wide range of support for the mature student population. What are the entry requirements?Our principal criterion for entry is to ensure is that mature students will be able to manage the course and complete it successfully. Some background in science is essential for our degrees, but equally important are flexibility, determination and organisation, skills that mature students often have in abundance. Every mature applicant comes with a unique set of qualifications and skills and we deal with each case on an individual basis. We therefore encourage you to contact us as early as possible, preferably before making an official application, with a detailed listing of all your qualifications and experience so that we can advise you on the best route into Higher Education. Please try to be as comprehensive as possible, so include qualifications such as GCSEs, CSEs and O-levels, and please give the grades of all qualifications. Many mature students have considerable work-related experience, for example in ICT skills, which are relevant in our decision to make you an offer. Occasionally we may offer you an informal interview to assess your suitability for our courses. Remember that you are also interviewing us to see if we are suitable for you! How can I get into University if I don’t meet your entry requirements?If we feel that direct entry onto a degree course would not be appropriate then we can advise you on the best strategy for you to gain qualifications suitable for entry.
Possible routes might include: 1. College/evening class. You may be able to obtain some science AS and A-levels locally to broaden your knowledge. This may take a while and not be the most time efficient route. 2. Access to HE course. These entitle you to direct entry to our degrees.These are usually 1-year full time. See www.accesstohe.ac.uk/ for details. You would need to get a minimum of 18 credits at level 3 on a kite-marked course in relevant subjects. 3. The University of Leicester Sciences Foundation Year Programme. This provides a 1-year course that brings you up to equivalent of A-level sciences, equipping you fully for success on our degrees. Passing the Foundation Year entitles you to automatic entry onto all our Geology degree programmes. Note that significant advantages of this route are that during the Foundation Year students will have an academic tutor from the Department of Geology, are encouraged to attend lectures organised by our student society, and will spend some time in the department attending selected lectures and practicals. This will allow you to keep a clear picture of where you are heading during Foundation Year. See more about our Foundation Year. Do you offer part-time degrees?At present the Department of Geology does not offer part-time degrees. The Open University is a leading provider of part time science degrees. Some OU modules may be considered towards entry requirements for our degree courses. How much will it cost and how can I fund my studies?
At the University of Leicester specialist Mature Student Advisors are able to offer advice to applicants on childcare, accommodation, disability, special learning needs and finances based upon individual circumstances. To access a Mature Student Advisor contact admissions@le.ac.uk, or telephone 0116 252 5281. Where else can I find out information about being a mature student at Leicester?
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