South West College (SWC) is delighted to launch its 2025/2026 Higher Education Community Scholarships, reaffirming the College’s commitment to widening access and participation across the region.
Valued at £52,000 in total, the scheme offers five fully funded scholarships for full-time higher education programmes in Computing, Media, Sport, Civil Engineering and Construction, starting September 2025.
Three scholarships will be awarded to pupils from local feeder schools completing A-Levels or Level 3 qualifications this summer, with two available to current SWC students. Each scholarship, worth £10,400 over three years, covers full tuition fees for a range of approved higher education courses.
Eligible programmes include:
- Ulster University Foundation Degree in Computing
with progression to the Open University BSc (Hons) Top-Up in Computing Science. (Dungannon campus),
- Open University Foundation Degree in Visual Media Arts leading to a BA (Hons) Top-Up in Visual Media Arts (Film & Games). (Enniskillen campus),
- Open University Foundation Degree in Sport and Exercise with progression to the BSc (Hons) Top-Up in Sport and Exercise. (Omagh campus),
- Ulster University Foundation Degrees in Construction Engineering with Surveying or Civil Engineering with a final-year top-up to the Open University BSc (Hons) in Construction Engineering & Management. (Omagh campus),
Last year’s scholarship recipient, Bradley Creevy from Cookstown, studying an Ulster University Foundation Degree in Computing praised the initiative for its financial support and positive impact. He said:
“Thanks to this scholarship initiative, I’ve been able to pursue my ambition in IT without the stress of accumulating significant debt. The application process was straightforward and quick, and I would highly recommend SWC for further and higher education. The lecturers are incredibly supportive, and the overall environment is both friendly and welcoming.”
Julie Kelly, Higher Education Co-ordinator at South West College, said:
“We are proud to once again offer these scholarships to support talented and hardworking students who are passionate about furthering their education. At South West College, we recognise that financial barriers can often limit access to higher education, and through this initiative, we are committed to helping remove those obstacles.
“These scholarships are about more than just funding, they are about recognising potential, encouraging ambition, and empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals. This initiative reflects our core belief that higher education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or financial circumstances, and we believe this financial support will empower students to achieve their educational goals.”
To be eligible, applicants must be on track to achieve at least 112 UCAS points, hold five GCSEs including English and Maths at grade C/4 or above, and have a household income of £22,500 or less. A 500-word personal statement is also required.
For full details and to apply, please visit: www.swc.ac.uk/communityscholarships, or email julie.kelly@swc.ac.uk.