Why become a student

“It has been an enriching experience. I feel that university has changed me at a personal level. I have developed so many different skills which have given me confidence in my abilities to problem-solve, be resourceful, multi-task, analyse information…to name a few! I have had the opportunity to learn a lot about myself and have met some really nice people. All of my tutors are so good at what they do and they inspired me throughout the course to ultimately achieve my goal of becoming a Physiotherapist.”

Ruthy Pritchard, BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy; qualified in 2007 and now employed as a Physiotherapist

Study something you have not had the opportunity to study before

In the United Kingdom we are fortunate to have over 40,000 courses to choose from in an ever-increasing range of subject areas. You may wish to develop further your existing skills and knowledge base gained in the course of employment, as a homemaker and parent or through your recreational interests. Some courses relate to specific occupational, or sometimes recreational, areas allowing you to increase the breadth and depth of your knowledge, as well as offering a very practical component, enabling you to learn new or refine existing skills.

Meet and enjoy the company of like-minded people

Many people describe the friendships formed at university as quite unique and lasting. Mature students do manage to enjoy an active social life alongside their study and family commitments. There are also those students who initially had no plans to enter higher education but have surprised themselves and had their confidence boosted as a result of enrolling on a 'Return to Study' or 'Access to Higher Education' course. Such courses allow people to blossom and show them what they are capable of and can lead on to great things. Whatever their motivation, mature students make a valuable contribution to the university community.

Enhance your career prospects

Certain professions such as Teaching, Social Work and Nursing, for example, require you to possess a higher education qualification before you can practice as a professional. Any higher education qualification has the potential to open up more and varied career prospects.

Achieve personal satisfaction and develop on a personal level

Gaining a higher education qualification can be a goal in its own right. This can be true for people who feel they missed out the first time round and now have the opportunity to seize the moment and show the world – and themselves – what they are capable of. The sense of achievement is hard to beat!

“I wasn’t sure whether I had made the right decision or whether I was ‘good enough’ to be here. I discovered I was worrying over nothing as I soon settled in and realised my fellow students felt the same. All the staff are great, as are my much younger fellow students. At times it is challenging, frustrating and stressful but I wouldn’t change my decision for anything. I have grown as a person since starting my degree, made new friends and feel I have found true fulfilment. The time has flown by so quickly…I have found getting involved in the life of the university to be key to my enjoyment."

Martin Hockaday, BSc (Hons) Social Justice and Human Rights; graduated with a first class Honours degree