As A-Level students across the province prepare to take the next step in their academic journey, South West College (SWC) is encouraging talented and ambitious young people to explore the wide range of university-level study options available at their local Further Education College.
On Wednesday, 20 November 2024, from 9am to 6pm, SWC will be hosting an ‘All About Higher Education’ event. This event offers personalised one-to-one video or voice call appointments for Year 13 and 14 students, as well as their parents or guardians, to explore the various pathways available beyond A-Levels.
It is ideal for those completing UCAS applications or considering their next steps - whether that’s university, college or a different path. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with SWC’s expert Higher Education (HE) team, ask questions, receive tailored advice, and gain valuable insights into higher education courses, financial aid, scholarships, career opportunities, and the application process at SWC.
SWC is proud to have developed a number of wide-ranging degree programmes in partnership with prestigious Higher Education institutions, including Pearson, Queens University Belfast, The Open University and Ulster University, in a wide range of subject areas, ensuring that students receive high-quality education and training.
SWC understands that choosing the right path after secondary school can be a daunting task and offer a diverse range of university-accredited courses including, Foundation Degrees that combine hands-on practical learning with academic study. These degrees can be completed in two years full-time or three years part-time and can be topped up to a full degree later.
SWC also offers Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Higher National Certificates (HNCs), which focus on job-specific skills that are highly valued by employers, preparing students for either immediate employment or further study.
Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLAs) are another valuable option, allowing students to gain paid employment while earning a Level 5 qualification. This pathway is fully funded by the Department for the Economy, so there are no tuition fees to worry about.
Students who decide to study at the College benefit from smaller class sizes allowing for a more focused teaching approach, cheaper tuition fees, industry standard facilities and equipment to help gain the skills employers are looking for, industry accredited qualifications and tutors who have industry expertise. All programmes are developed in line with industry demand to ensure that they provide the right skills for progression to further study or employment.
South West College Principal and Chief Executive Celine McCartan explains, “Deciding on the next step after leaving school can be a daunting and anxious time and young people and parents don’t always know what career courses or learning opportunities are available to them. With the growing costs of university tuition fees and living costs, it is vital that young people wishing to obtain qualifications are aware of the range of options available to help them make better, informed choices and I would encourage them to look at the provision that’s on offer at their local Further Education College as they look to the next step of their educational journey. With a wide range of university-accredited courses available, students can study locally, gain real-world skills, and save on the costs of their studies.”