Route Into Higher Education Fast Forward - Preparation for Higher Education

Summary 2010/11

Prepare yourself for Higher Education through flexible, online training that lets you study around your current commitments.
Take advantage of a free course that will give you the skills, understanding and confidence to start an exciting and rewarding degree programme at Edge Hill.
Take the fear out of academic study with training in essential study skills like note-taking, essay writing and exam techniques.

Fast Forward is a flexible, 30-week, online programme, with the added advantage of built-in subject and Developing Academic Support tutors. The programme is designed to offer a bridge between your current, or intended, job role and higher education. The programme is accredited by the Open College Network (North West Region).

Campus:

Ormskirk Campus, Edge Hill University

Course Type:

Undergraduate Access to Higher Education

Attendance & Study Mode:

30 weeks

Online

Start Date:

October 2010 or February 2011

2010 Entry Requirements

For the majority of Fast Forward programmes you do not require any formal entry qualifications. However, you will need to show that you are genuinely committed to studying for a degree. If you can demonstrate the skills and potential we feel you need for a degree we will offer you a place.

Please note, if you are applying to vocational programmes such as pre-registration nursing, you should be able to demonstrate an awareness of your chosen career pathway. Ideally this will have been achieved by having some experience in a relevant setting, through employment, volunteering or observation.

All applicants to health programmes also have to undergo Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Medical clearances, which we will organise for you.

For pre-registration nursing degree programmes, you need to have GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C or above or equivalent or Level 2 in Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy. If you do not already have these do not worry. Edge Hill University offers equivalency tests.

Details

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Who is this course for?

The programme is aimed at employed adults who want to prepare for a degree course while continuing their employment. If you are unemployed or looking for a career change, you could also benefit from this programme.

What will I gain from this programme?

You will gain the skills and knowledge to study successfully at foundation degree or degree level in Higher Education. Successful completion of Fast Forward offers guaranteed progression onto a degree programme at Edge Hill University (or a guaranteed interview for selected Health courses and Education foundation degrees).

What will I study?

There are two modules in this course, one related to your subject choice (see list below) and in the other the emphasis is on study skills training.

You will take compulsory sessions on essay writing, taking and arranging notes, reading effectively, report writing, revision and examination techniques, presentation skills, time management, working in groups, strengths and weaknesses, action planning, target setting, confidence building, presentation skills, group work and course evaluation.

How will I study?

Although study is predominantly online, you will be allocated a Developing Academic Support tutor and have access to the full range of services and facilities at Edge Hill, including the Learning Resource Centre, computer hardware and software, ICT/Internet access and media facilities. You will also receive valuable face-to-face teaching in a small group for 2/3 hours once a month.

Who will be teaching me?

The programme is delivered by a team of tutors who are experienced in teaching and supporting adults returning to education.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through written assignments, projects and coursework.

What are my career prospects?

Successful completion of this Fast Forward programme offers guaranteed progression onto a wide range of degree and Foundation Degree programmes at Edge Hill University (or a guaranteed interview for selected courses).

View progression routes available from Fast Forward - Preparation for Higher Education (doc) >>

Professional Accreditation

Fast Forward is validated by the Open College Network (North West Region).

Further study at Edge Hill University

Fast Forward gives you the opportunity to prepare yourself in 30 weeks for courses in the following subjects:

Applied Social and Psychological Sciences
Business Management
Biology
Childhood Studies
Communication and Media
Computing and Information Systems
Criminology
Drama (must pass an interview / workshop prior to commencement)
English
Geography
Health and Social Care (this route only offers a guaranteed interview)
History
Law

How do I apply?

Apply directly to Edge Hill University.

If you wish to have an information pack posted to you, or have any other course queries, contact the Course Enquiries Unit on 0800 195 5063 or complete the course enquiry form.

You can also download the application form and supporting documents:

See our How to Apply pages for more information on the application process and our Admissions criteria.

Fees and Finance

The course is free.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus, or be kept updated about forthcoming events, then complete our course enquiry form or contact the Course Enquiries Unit on freephone 0800 195 5063.

You can also register to attend one of the open days and evenings we run throughout the year. These are held at our main campus and at other venues across the region. You’ll also find University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you don't find all the information you need on this website, please contact:

Bill Johnson, Programme Leader
Tel: 01695 584644
Email: fastrackandfastforward@edgehill.ac.uk

Please note, requests for information packs should be made to the Course Enquiries Unit (contact details above) and not the Programme Leader.