Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Access Course?
Access courses are designed for anyone without formal qualifications who wishes to progress to a higher level course such as a degree or foundation degree. You will work towards the successful acquisition of specified number of ‘credit' that will then be accounted for when you join a full degree. Access courses are designed especially for mature students who have had a break from their studies. The courses are generally accepted as an alternative to GCSEs and A levels. If you are looking for a new direction, or have been away from studying for some time, and Access course can help you move quickly and efficiently into Higher Education.
What Qualifications do I Need?
No formal qualifications will be needed. There will be an advisory interview during which we will discuss whether our Access courses can help you reach the targets you have set yourself. You should be motivated to undertake further study and have a reasonable level of literacy and numeracy.
How is Credit Accumulated?
All Access to Higher Education courses are credit based. Subjects have a set number of credits and level. You can accumulate credits for each subject unit and your tutor will advise you as to the total needed for your successful completion. You will get plenty of feedback to help you.
Do I Have a Choice of Courses?
There are six Access to Higher Education courses offered at The Bournemouth and Poole College.
- Access to Higher Education in Business Studies and Computing
- Access to Higher Education - General
- Access to Humanities - Bournemouth
- Access to Science - Poole
- Access to Higher Education in Media and Performing Studies
- Access to Higher Education in Social Work and Nursing
- Access to Higher Education in Sport
These courses are QAA recognised and validated by the Open College Network of the South West.
What is the Open College Network of the South West?
The Open College Network of the South West operates under licence to the National Open College Network (NOCN). It is a nationally recognised Access Validation Agency. There are Open College Networks operating throughout the UK from London to Scotland, Northern Ireland to Cornwall. OCNSW is the formal validating body for all Access to Higher Education Courses in the South West. It awards a QAA recognised Access Certificate to successful students on completion of their course, which is recognised for progression on to Higher Education anywhere in the country. OCNSW comprises a network of educational, training and voluntary sector institutions in the South West region which provides an accreditation service covering the whole range of adult learning from basic levels to pre-degree provision. Embracing all subject areas it enables adults to obtain credits for their learning on recognised programmes. As a member of the National Open College Network it is part of a nationwide Credit Accumulation and Transfer agreement. This means that credits gained on a OCNSW validated course are accepted by other Open College Federations, Higher Education Institutions, voluntary organisations and others in the public and private sector.
Who are Access Courses Suitable for?
Access courses are suitable for mature students who have had a break from studies and are looking for a return to education. They provide an excellent preparation for Higher Education, and a step towards your dreams of university.
How Much Does it Cost?
If you are a FULL TIME student on an Access to Higher Education course then your tuition fees will be FREE . You will be required to pay an OCNSWR registration fee (£100.00 for the academic year 07-08) plus a college administration fee (£40.00 for the academic year 07-08). In addition you should expect to pay examination fees to your relevant awarding body (prices vary subject to examination taken).
PART TIME students on Access to Higher Education courses will pay variable fees – subject to the number of college hours attended. Prices will be given on application – subject to your choice of course.
All part time Access to Higher Education students will be required to pay an OCNSWR registration fee (£100.00 for the academic year 07-08) plus a college administration fee (£40.00 for the academic year 07-08). In addition you should expect to pay examination fees to your relevant awarding body (prices vary subject to examination taken).
Course fee remission may be available for adult UK and EU students in receipt of the following means tested benefits*:
- Job Seekers Allowance
- Unemployment Benefit
- Income Support
- Family Credit
- Disability Allowance (physically disabled)
- Disability Working Allowance
- Income Top-Up
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Benefit
- Unwaged dependants of those in receipt of the above
* Proof of benefit required if applying for course fee remission .
If you are unemployed and considering taking an Access to Higher Education course at the College, please check the current New Deal arrangements at your local Job Centre Plus office. There may be restrictions for learners in receipt of unemployment benefits.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Tuition fees for 2007/2008 are £4,200 per year. (With the exception of the International Access to University for Business which is £6,000). Fees for 2008/2009 will be confirmed on application.
How Long Will I Study?
Courses generally require attendance for a minimum of one academic year on a full or part time basis. Timetabled hours range from 13 upwards and the amount of daytime /evening attendance per week will be dependent upon selected area of study.
Are Access Courses Difficult?
Yes, Access courses are demanding. However college staff have years of experience in delivering these courses and will support you throughout your course. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will provide practical help and encouragement with your studies. We always discuss the course thoroughly with you before enrolment to make sure you are prepared – so you don't need to worry.
I Have Family Commitments. Will This be a Problem?
Most of our Access to Higher Education Courses have ‘family friendly' timetables And are normally spread over 4 days of the week to fit in with most student commitments. The College has childcare facilities on campus. The Sunshine Nursery is based at both North Road , Poole and the Lansdowne, Bournemouth . For details call 01202 205670 (NR) and 205444 (Lans).
Can I get Advice and Guidance to Help me Choose a Course and Career?
The College offers lots of practical advice and guidance. If you are unsure about returning to education you could enrol on the Pre-Access courses. This course helps to boost your study skills and confidence.
The Higher Education Unit can assist with lots of information about Access and Higher Education courses, including answering any questions you may have about chooing a course. The College also has a dedicated Adult Guidance Unit which is for any mature student (not just those who may be considering HE). You can contact them on 01202 205896.
What if I am not Sure About the Course?
If you are not certain that you could cope with an Access course, The College can offer you the option of attending a short Pre-Access programme, specifically designed to give you an insight into the full courses and to help you with your decision. The College also has a dedicated Adult Guidance Unit. Please contact 01202 205896. We will help you assess if this is the right course to take.
What Happens Once I Have Finished my Course?
Our Access courses have an excellent track record. Having achieved an Access to Higher Education course, most students go on to the higher level courses either at The College or at universities all around the country. The Access course will give you the opportunity to continue learning in your chosen subject.
How do I Apply?
Once your have decided which Access course you would like to do just complete the application form.
Once we receive your application form we will ask you to come in for an informal interview. Following this interview we will confirm whether you have a place on the course and will confirm start dates etc. validated by The Open College Network of the South West Region operating under license to the National Open College Network (NOCN). It is a nationally recognised Access Validation Agency. There are Open College Networks operating throughout the UK .
An Access Certificate (QAA recognised) will be awarded to successful students on completion of their course. This qualification is recognised for progression on to Higher Education anywhere in the country (universities and colleges) For more information visit www.ocnswr.org.uk
