In fact, there are course options available to fit just about into every potential mature student’s lifestyle, budget and background.
Adult Education Course Choices
Mature students have just as many choices available to them as school leavers, if not more. Traditional degree courses are, of course, open to mature students. However, these usually require attendance during "office hours", when many potential mature students work.
Part-time degree courses are much more flexible in that classes are offered outside of the “9-5”. It is important to remember, though, that part-time courses will take considerably longer to complete than full-time courses.
Vocational and career focused courses, such as the UK's Higher National Diploma (HND), can again be taken full or part-time. A vocational course can open many doors in terms of career progression or even a complete change of career.
A considerable number of institutions also offer evening classes. These range from those which result in a formal qualification, through learning a craft or practising a hobby, to "taster courses" which give students the chance to experience adult education without committing to a degree programme.
A limited number of subjects can be studied by distance learning courses, also known as correspondence courses. Study is carried out at home, usually at the student's own pace with assignments submitted to a tutor by email or post and a formal examination or certification process upon completion of the course.
Distance learning can be organised to fit around existing commitments, but students can lose motivation and feel isolated. A course with some form of interaction with other students, even if only an internet forum, would therefore be a wise choice.
Course Entry Requirements
Some subjects require certain specific entry requirements, for instance a medical degree course would not be open to students without any previous qualifications. However, there are courses where credit will be given to mature students for life experience.
In addition, there are institutions, such as the University of Liverpool, offering foundation elements. These allow mature students entry into subjects where normal entry requirements are not met.
Financial Considerations for Mature Students
Those who decide to embark on a course of study as an adult may worry about the financial implications. If they wish to study a full-time degree course this may mean giving up regular, paid employment.
Grants and support, however, are available which could help to fund a full-time degree course, possibly in conjunction with a part-time job. If giving up full-time work is not an option, a part-time course or evening class may be more appropriate, particularly if an employer is happy to allow flexible working.
Distance learning offers the flexibility to fit studies around work, ostensibly giving the best of both worlds – a steady income and the chance to study. The courses available for study by correspondence course will be fewer than full-time or part-time degree courses, but this may be the more viable option for anyone who requires a full-time income.
Employers are often willing to fund or sponsor courses for their employees if they will be learning skills of benefit to the company. For instance, some English legal firms will pay for staff to complete the legal executive qualifications.
If an employer does fund a course of study, employees are usually required to commit to working for the firm for a specific period after completion of the course, otherwise the course fees will be repayable in full. If you are considering a qualification to further your current career, this is definitely a route worth considering.
In conclusion, whatever your circumstances and previous education, this should not deter you from returning to education. There will almost certainly be a course that meets your needs, suits your abilities and does not stretch your finances.
Further Information
UCAS (United Kingdom) and the American Centre for Education (USA) provide further information for mature students. Individual universities and colleges also provide further details on their own sites.
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