A few things to know about part time learning

Tips for part time students

12:59 27 November 2014

You might be working and you really need to further your studies. Do you think the idea of being a part-time student is appealing? Do you drop your job and go to college or you would rather hold on to your job and opt for part time classes? To comfortably embed your studies with your job, most universities and colleges are now offering more possibilities that make it easier to acquire a degree easily.

 

Here are some things you need to know about part time learning.

 

Are part-time courses offered in all universities? No, some universities only support full time students. However, with increasing numbers of students, more and more universities are opening doors to part time students.

 

Does one have to apply through Ucas? No, although Ucas is the main enroller of part-time students and it has listed some part time courses, you can still apply via other available channels. Universities themselves mostly advertise and recruit these open positions.

 

Do I need A-levels or other qualifications? Sometimes it would be necessary. All universities will be particular about the applicant completing the course. Having said that, universities nowadays are more concerned with non traditional students. They give the A level students equivalent grades to see where they can continue from. 

 

How long does a part time degree take? It might take as long as 10 years to graduate. But it depends on factors such as motivation, time and personal reasons. Remember that you are studying just an hour or two compared to somebody else who is dedicated to full time learning for 3 to 4 years. Since some course will have a limited number of modules you can take, they will make sure that they balance them accordingly. 

 

Can I choose my timetable? Maybe, but this is entirely on the department. Remember that most timetables vary. So you will have to plan your duties in accordance with your free time and not the other way round.