Route Into Higher Education Fastrack - Preparation for Higher Education

Summary 2011/12

• Take advantage of a free course that will give you the skills, understanding and confidence to go forward into higher education;
• Take the fear out of academic study with training in essential study skills like note-taking, essay writing and exam techniques, plus an introduction to IT;
• Prepare yourself in just seven weeks for an exciting and rewarding degree programme at Edge Hill University.

Subject routes are yet to be confirmed for June 2012 entry. Please keep checking this page for updates.

Fastrack is an intensive, free 7-week Preparation for Higher Education programme for adults, designed to give you the skills and knowledge to prepare yourself for entry to an Edge Hill degree. Successful completion will enable you to undertake a full or part-time degree from the following September in your chosen subject.

2011 Entry Requirements

Formal entry qualifications are not normally required. However, you will need to show you are committed to studying for a degree. If you can demonstrate the skills and potential we will offer you a place.

Please note, if you are applying to vocational programmes such as teaching, 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.

For Initial Teacher Training routes, you will need to have GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C or above or equivalent. For Key Stage 2/3 routes, GCSE Science is also required. If you do not already have these GCSEs don't worry; Edge Hill University offers equivalency tests.

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

Summary 2012/13

• Take advantage of a free course that will give you the skills, understanding and confidence to go forward into higher education;
• Take the fear out of academic study with training in essential study skills like note-taking, essay writing and exam techniques, plus an introduction to IT;
• Prepare yourself in just seven weeks for an exciting and rewarding degree programme at Edge Hill University.

Subject routes are yet to be confirmed for June 2012 entry. Please keep checking this page for updates.

Fastrack is an intensive, free 7-week Preparation for Higher Education programme for adults, designed to give you the skills and knowledge to prepare yourself for entry to an Edge Hill degree. Successful completion will enable you to undertake a full or part-time degree from the following September in your chosen subject.

2012 Entry Requirements

Formal entry qualifications are not normally required. However, you will need to show you are committed to studying for a degree. If you can demonstrate the skills and potential we will offer you a place.

Please note, if you are applying to vocational programmes such as teaching, 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.

For Initial Teacher Training routes, you will need to have GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C or above or equivalent. For Key Stage 2/3 routes, GCSE Science is also required. If you do not already have these GCSEs don't worry; Edge Hill University offers equivalency tests.

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

Details

Who is this course for?

We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are able to cope with the demands of an intensive course.

What will I gain from this programme?

You will gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to start a full or part-time degree programme. As well as specific study skills that you will need to use on a day-to-day basis on your degree course, you will also learn to organise, plan and manage your own time, which is useful in many other areas of life.

What will I study?

There are two modules in the course, one related to your subject choice 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. There are also optional study skills drop-in sessions.

You will get an introduction to ICT covering IT awareness, the Internet, word processing, CD-ROMs, online databases, scanning and graphics. There is also optional training in IT for statistics, IT applications and further IT drop-in sessions.

How will I study?

Teaching is through lectures, tutorials, small group work and practical sessions. You will be allocated a personal 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.

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 assignments, projects and coursework.

What are my career prospects?

Fastrack gives you the opportunity to prepare yourself in 7 weeks for courses in selected subject areas. Successful completion of this Fastrack programme offers guaranteed progression onto a wide range of degree programmes at Edge Hill University.

A Great Study Environment

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities, more than 1,000 rooms in halls of residence and fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You'll get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top four in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

You should apply directly to Edge Hill University.

Download the Fastrack application pack (pdf) >>

Fees and Finance

The course is currently free and, if you demonstrate that you need it, you may receive assistance with childcare and travel. Information for UK and EU students only.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus or be kept updated about forthcoming events, contact the Course Information, Advice and Guidance Team on 01695 657000, email study@edgehill.ac.uk or submit your details at www.edgehill.ac.uk/courseinformation.

You can also register to attend one of our open events held throughout the year. Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays to book your place.

You'll also find Edge Hill University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask about this course, please contact:

• Access Programmes Team
• Tel: 01695 584644 / 01695 584618
• Email: accessprogrammes@edgehill.ac.uk

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