From Fastrack to PhD: Ricardo achieves his higher education dreams
Ricardo Lopes pursued his dream to complete a degree and changed his life, and it all started with Edge Hill’s Fastrack programme.
The Fastrack programme is a free 7-week course designed for people who’ve been out of education for over three years and haven’t got the relevant qualifications for university study, to gain the skills and confidence required to join an Edge Hill University degree.
“Life took me in many directions, including working as a waiter and later as a property manager, but I always held on to the dream of completing my education.
“It was actually my partner who spotted an advert for Fastrack and encouraged me to go for it. That moment changed everything. I met Ann, Jan, and Shirley, whose support and belief in me continue to this day.”
Ricardo joined the Fastrack programme and committed himself to the programme. He spent the next seven weeks working on the academic skills he would need for degree study and covering key elements of his chosen subject to help him hit the ground running when he joined the course.
“Joining the Fastrack Programme was a turning point in my life. I had always wanted to complete a degree, but after moving to the UK from Brazil in my 20s, life took over, working long hours and adapting to a new culture meant that education had to be put on hold.
“It wasn’t just about a career shift, it was personal. I wanted to challenge myself, to prove that it wasn’t too late, and to invest in a future that felt meaningful. Coming from a background where access to education wasn’t always guaranteed, I saw higher education as a way to reclaim and reshape my story. I was 41 when I started Fastrack too, far from the traditional age of a student but it was that first open door – and it gave me the tools, support and belief I needed to step through it.”
After successfully completing the Fastrack course, he progressed onto a BSc in Computing and has since graduated with First Class Honours; but Ricardo’s already incredible story didn’t end there.
Ricardo continued his education by gaining an MSc in Big Data Analytics with Distinction, and is now pursuing a PhD at Edge Hill researching the impact of AI in the Criminal Justice System in England and Wales, while also teaching and training.
“Fastrack was hard, but incredibly rewarding. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the academic foundation I still rely on today, even as a PhD researcher. It taught me how to manage my time, think critically, and study effectively. More than that, it helped me build confidence in my ability to succeed at university level.
“Fastrack didn’t just open the door to education, it gave me confidence, purpose, and a community. For anyone wondering if it’s too late or too hard: if I could do it, so can you.”
Successful completion of a Fastrack course will enable students to be considered for a place on a selection of degrees at Edge Hill University. The course has pathways leading to a range of degree subjects, but whichever route you choose you’ll receive a wealth of guidance and support to help you achieve your goals.
“My advice to new students would be don’t be afraid to ask for help. The staff are there because they believe in you. Use the resources available. Build relationships with your classmates. And most importantly, believe in yourself. Everyone starts Fastrack from a different place, but you all have the same goal: to move forward.
“Use the support services and people around you if you need it. Stay organised, manage your time well, and take each challenge one step at a time.”
To find out more about the Fastrack programme and how you can follow in Ricardo’s footsteps, click here or send an email to [email protected]
August 12, 2025