Going back to studying. Where do i start?

Oldernotwiser

squirrelchops wrote: »

I attained 3 A levels but didn't go to Uni for 14 years after this and boy was I shocked at the level we were expected to write at!

Yes, appallingly low, isn't it?;)

Aspiring

squirrelchops wrote: »

Hi,

regarding studying a a 'mature' student I would also consider which courses offer the best in terms of financial aid. E.g social work or teaching have good bursaries. These most certainly help and take off some of the financial strain whilst you are studying.

I agree with ONW re: access course. This will help you to get to grips with the academic standard required for a degree. I attained 3 A levels but didn't go to Uni for 14 years after this and boy was I shocked at the level we were expected to write at!

I'm currently on an Access course and it is the most liberating and empowering academic excercise I have put myself though. :rotfl: I'm a long way down the line from my O level days (aka longer than 14 years ) and this has been a very illuminating and thought provoking experience. On the plus side, it has shown me that I'm not quite as "thick" as people in my life had led me to believe. But then, to be fair, they had ulterior motives :rolleyes:

Last year, I might have recommended anyone pursue their dreams simply because they can: this year, and speaking from experience, I would recommend, pursue your dreams, but take "baby steps" so that you are fully prepared for what you are embarking on - for the like's of me, that means, take an Access course so that you give yourself the best grounding beforehand and equally, giving yourself the best avenues of advice/experience to draw upon. All are priceless IMO.

Chai_2

Hi,

Doing an A level would be a great waste of time and is not taught in the same way uni will be. An access course is good but better still is what is known as an "extended" degree.
An extended degree is the same as an access course but you study this at uni which will directly prepare you as you will have an extra year to get your grounding.

Trust me, either an access course or an extended degree would be more valueable use of your time. There are pro's and con's of each choice but at least consider these options.

Also bear in mind that as a mature student, you are not subject to the same entry requirements as a fresh from college student. Go to the uni you are interested in and talk through your options.

Hope this helps.

Good luck with your decision

C

welshmoneylover

Oldernotwiser wrote: »

Yes, appallingly low, isn't it?;)

Hmmm, I done my A levels *ahem* years ago when they were proper A levels.
I saw an exam paper for a level history last year and to me I thought the standard was of an o level type. Things are being dumped down thats for sure. I had to work hard to get a grade A in a subject and there were only 2 of us in the entire school to get an A. Now, they seem to be given them away :cool:

scrooge786

Thanks ever so much for all your replies although i am now more confused than ever looking at all the different options available. Thanks nonetheless.

Oldernotwiser

scrooge786 wrote: »

Thanks ever so much for all your replies although i am now more confused than ever looking at all the different options available. Thanks nonetheless.

That's why you need to have a discussion with a Careers Adviser; they're trained to help you sort out situations like this as well as to give you infomation.