Undergraduate Programmes
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Information for Mature Undergraduate Students
At St Mary’s we welcome people of all ages to our courses, and we are committed to extending opportunities to adults returning to study. Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing with them a number of skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences. We recognise that as an adult returning to education you will contribute to the learning environment here.
Most mature students do very well at St Mary’s and find a balance between study and other commitments very successfully. In most degree programmes, there are almost certainly going to be other mature students you can get to know. At St Mary’s around one in five of our students is over the age of 21 when beginning their study, and students come from an array of backgrounds.
We advise all potential students to visit us at an Open Day. You will be welcome at any of our open events but you may be interested in our annual Open Evening that has a focus for mature students and where you can chat informally to mature students who are currently studying here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the entry requirements for mature students?
All programmes have there own course entry requirements which are listed for each courses on the website and in the prospectus. We recognise a wide range of qualifications but as a mature students you may qualify if you can provide evidence of your ability to successfully pursue the degree you want to apply for and we will consider your overall experience. Normally you would be expected to have at least one A level or the equivalent.
Am I ready for further for higher level study ?
It may be useful to consider the following issues:
• Subject Knowledge
The level of back ground knowledge you will need will vary from course to course, often in science courses a good level of prior knowledge is essential. In other areas the emphasis may be more about commitment to the course. You might find it helpful to contact the programme director for the course you are interested in if you have concerns about your suitability for the course.
• Study Skills
To be a successful student you need to be able to managing your time effectively, be able to read, listen and processing information, communicate in writing and verbally and use information technology. These skills are not just acquired through study however and are gained through work, voluntary work and general interest. Again if you have concerns it might be useful to discuss them.
Pre-University courses like Access are designed to develop the relevant subject skills needed to study at University. You can search access courses on the UCAS website.
What support will I get ?
During your course of study you can get support from your academic tutor. Skill shops are also run as drop-in sessions every day and cover writing, IT and numeracy skills, while many programmes offer their own sessions to give you an extra boost of confidence
Our Students Services team are experienced in advising adults returning to education As a mature student, it’s likely that you’ll have a number of added commitments, and we provide a range of support services designed to help you cope with these pressures, for further information please see the Student Life and Support section.
What will the timetable be like?
For many mature students especially those with families or work commitments the biggest question is – will I have the time?
The University College teaching day runs between 9.00am and 7.00pm, but some students only have to come into university on two or three days per week for a total of eight or ten hours. Including independent study your course will need approx 30 to 40 hours per week but your work load will vary during the year as several pieces of course work may be due at one time.
Your time table will depend on your programme, but academic staff are sympathetic to students with outside commitments and try to be as accommodating as possible. Sometimes sessions are repeated during the week, and you may be able to choose the most convenient group to be in.
How do I apply?
You will need to apply through UCAS for full time courses www.ucas.ac.uk. This sight also has a section for mature students with useful tips and advice about choosing courses, coping with study and money matters
Can I study part time?
Many of our programmes can be studied on a part-time basis. This will be day-time study of between four and six hours per week. It is possible to vary the amount of study you take on each year and, therefore, the time it takes to complete your degree will vary.
Many mature students spread a three-year degree over six years and you may choose to study for a Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education, if you do not wish to commit yourself to a full degree programme.
If you have not studied for a while, we also allow you to take one or more modules as an associate student. Intending students are advised to discuss their applications with the relevant Programme Director (see the 'Find Out More' webpage of your chosen course).
What Our Students Say
"Going back into education was a bit of a challenge for me. I was concerned I'd be the only mature one and find it difficult to juggle my family commitments and study. In fact I have found everyone here encouraging and supportive, and made lots of friends of all ages."
Linda Nobes, Primary Teaching
