News release: University of Central Lancashire editorial for the Independent

Abstract

Over the past few years a wide range of educational developments have taken place at the
University of Central Lancashire, and like other new universities, this has resulted in the
expansion of the type and nature of university provision. Finance often plays an important part in
the decision and whereas many students now study full-time and work part-time, the reverse is
also a sensible option: work full-time and study part-time taking a work related or professional
course.
The Faculty of Cultural, Legal and Social Studies runs a University Certificate in Career Planning
by distance learning through its nationally recognized Centre for Employability. Divided into 14
bite-size chunks, the course takes 12 weeks to complete and is explicitly designed for those
looking to change careers or return to education. Delivered by CD-ROM and a comprehensive
student workbook, the course is taught by specialist tutors through email and Internet support.
Many UCLan degree modules are available through flexible delivery, like the History degree
where students can do an open/distance-learning module in Computing and History using the
Internet and print based support for case studies.
Partnership arrangements with Further Education Colleges have seen diploma courses such as
HNDs allowing students to study close to home in a familiar environment. Partnership colleges
can also the offer first, and sometimes the second year, of a degree programme so that attendance
at the University is only required for one year.
Foundation Degrees are new, employment related, higher education qualifications that have been
developed by employers, professional bodies and universities to meet industry's requirements. A
balanced mix of work-related and academic learning at work, college or home, they are for
students who want to gain more qualifications whilst working towards a career. Projects are often
directly related to work and can lead on to a full honours degree course. Degrees in Construction
and Forensic Science are currently being offered at the University.
The University is in the process of launching e-leaming courses and a wide range of nontraditional
courses to offer many opportunities for alternative modes of study.
7th November 2001
nr458kah
-ends-