Associate Students

For some people who just want to see if returning to study is right for them, enrolling on a full or part-time degree level programme may seem like too much too soon. That is why Writtle College offers the Associate Student Scheme.

How does it work?

Associate Students are those studying a module or a series of modules as stand along subjects, gaining credits as they go. Many students use the scheme to see if they like a subject before committing to long term study.

Many mature students find this is an excellent way to commence their studies if they are unable to commit to a full degree course on either a part or full-time basis.

Students study as Associates for any of the following purposes:

• As a taster to higher education, especially if it is a while since they have studied
• As a hobby and a way to meet people with similar interests
• To prepare for a career change

What award will I receive?

Single modules can be put together to form an award, usually a certificate of continuing education, a certificate of higher education, or a degree. The more credits, the higher the award.

How often will I need to come to college?

Each module will require you to spend approximately half to one day, or one evening a week each week in college and takes 15 weeks to complete. This usually includes lectures, practicals, reading, revision and assessment. Some modules also include visits. A few modules last for 30 weeks and carry twice as many credits. Whilst most modules are run during the day, we have recently extended our range of evening modules due to popular demand. Study will generally be alongside full-time students.

Why progress to undergraduate study?

Students often achieve very good results on the Scheme and progress by transferring on to a course and study part or full-time using the modules they have achieved as an Associate Student (as long as those modules are part of the selected award).

How much does it cost?

For an Associate Student only studying a single module at a time the cost would be no more than £411* for a 15 credit module / £822 for a 30 credit module.

Part-time students working towards a specific award will pay on a pro-rata basis. Please contact the College for further information.

* fees relate to year 2010/11

Equivalent Level Qualifications (ELQ)
The government no longer provides funding to teach students who study for a second degree at the same time or at a lower level than a qualification already held. Students studying Foundation degrees are not affected. ELQ students pay the normal fee + 50%

Who can apply?

Anyone over the age of 18 may apply, but please bear in mind that the most basic modules are from the first year of a degree course and therefore require a certain level of commitment. There are no standard entry requirements and students do not necessarily need to have formal qualifications.

An application form can be requested from Admissions on 01245 424200 or downloaded.

Not sure if it’s right for you?

We know these schemes can be confusing so it may be easier to pick up the phone and talk to us about your ideas. For further information contact Admissions on 01245 424200. Alternatively you could drop into an Open Days and chat to a specialist in person.