The University of Sheffield
Electronic and Electrical Engineering

Mature Candidates

The Department is seeing an increased number of applications from mature candidates. The University is actively committed to increasing the number of mature students and we strongly welcome such applications. Many mature candidates are seeking to change career or have reached a position in the Electronics Industry where they need a degree for further advancement. This document is designed to offer you guidance if you are such a candidate.

mature students at their graduation

If you have 'A' level or BTEC qualifications you are advised to first study the documents "Applications Procedures - 'A' Level Candidates" or "Applications Procedures - BTEC Candidates". If you do not have the necessary formal qualifications we will consider your situation on an individual basis. Nevertheless, most candidates fall into one of three categories:

  1. No Mathematics or Science background :- Where mature students wish to re-enter education but have no formal mathematical and scientific background, they will need to enter some kind of adult education course. Residents of Sheffield may wish to consider the "Mature Access Programme", details of which can be obtained from Mature Access Programme, Institute for Life Long Learning, University of Sheffield, 196-198 West Street, Sheffield S1 4ET.
  2. Some Mathematics and Science (approximately 'O' level standard):- Some mature students can provide evidence of academic ability but have insufficient maths or science to cope with the standard degree course. Such candidates may wish to consider the foundation year course (H602 or H603) which concentrates on maths and physics. Satisfactory performance on the foundation year will guarantee a place on the three year course.
  3. High Standard of Mathematics and Science (approximately 'A' level equivalent) :- Students who can demonstrate academic ability and a sound grounding in maths and science will be accepted directly onto the standard degree course.

If you are uncertain which of these categories you fall into, please seek advice from Dr D. A. Stone. In unclear cases, we may ask candidates to sit an entrance examination.

Formal applications should be made via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services. Application forms are available from UCAS, Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham Glos. GL52 3LZ.

These forms are designed for school leavers. Mature applicants may therefore need to use the format flexibly to explain their situation. Candidates may supply additional details either by sending a CV to the Department or completing a supplementary information form available from Flexible Studies, The Academic Registrars Office, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN.

This office can also supply a pack of additional information relevant to mature candidates and organises special Visit Days to the University.

Dr Martin Foster
Undergraduate Admissions Tutor
Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering
The University of Sheffield
Mappin Street
Sheffield
S1 3JD

email :  m.p.foster@sheffield.ac.uk