The Institute for Lifelong Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need qualifications? What do I need to do to be accepted? When do classes take place? How often will I have to attend? How long will it take to complete a part-time degree? What if I have to move away, can I count my learning towards another qualification? How much does it cost? Can I get a student loan or other help with my costs? Will I need to buy a lot of books and materials? What if I've not studied for twenty years or more, could I still become a student? I'm disabled, what are the teaching facilities like? Do I need to own a computer? Is there any help with study skills? What are the classes like? What are the students like? What if I can't keep up with my work on the courses? Will I get individual help from the tutors? How many hours should I allow for study? Will the degree help me get a better job?

Do I need qualifications? There are no formal entry requirements for any of our programmes. This mean that you do not need to have any 'A' levels or other qualifications. Everyone who applies to study with us will be invited for an interview. At the interview we will look for things such as enthusiasm, life experience and an interest in relevant activities or issues. If you want to study to gain access to a university degree course you may want to start with our Foundation Programme in Combined Studies. You can use this to access almost any degree course. You can find out more about the Foundation Programme here: Foundation Programme in Combined Studies Back to the top

What do I need to do to be accepted? Willingness and enthusiasm to learn more about your chosen subject and an awareness of the commitments that studying for a part-time degree brings to your lifestyle. Back to the top

When do classes take place? How often will I have to attend? Class times vary according to the subject area, they're usually in the evening for 2 hours. Some are available during the day. Back to the top

How long will it take to complete a part-time degree? Six years - 2 years for each level. However circumstances vary and a more flexible approach can be applied if necessary. Back to the top

What if I have to move away, can I count my learning towards another qualification? Yes. Our courses are included in the national Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) which mean you may be able to use the credit you have to meet part of the requirements for awards given by other institutions. Back to the top

How much does it cost? Fees for 2008-2009 are based on a rate of £132.00 per 10 credit module. Back to the top

Can I get a student loan or other help with my costs? Yes. There is a fee grant system in operation for those meeting a set criteria. Further details are available from Student Services Information Desk on 0114 222 1299 or Email:financialhelp@sheffield.ac.uk Back to the top

Will I need to buy a lot of books and materials? We find that our students prefer to buy their own copy of the core books for the course. There is however a well stocked library nearby for other books from the relevant reading list. Back to the top

What if I've not studied for twenty years or more, could I still become a student? Yes. Age and no recent study are not barriers to part-time learning. Back to the top

I'm disabled, what are the teaching facilities like? The University is committed to taking all practical steps to ensure that students with additional support can participate in their studies without disadvantage. However you should be aware that not all buildings are fully accessible yet. There is a disability statement available from Student Services that describes the facilities currently provided. Call 0114 222 1313 or Email: disability.info@sheffield.ac.uk Back to the top

Do I need to own a computer? Not necessarily, your Ucard allows you to use the University's open access computer facilities. Back to the top

Is there any help with study skills? Yes. We run a Learning to Learn module for students returning to study, essay writing, correct referencing, interpreting texts locating information and ways to approach heavy reading loads are all covered during the class. We also offer an on-line version of this module. Back to the top

What are the classes like? Most teaching takes the form of short lectures and friendly discussions or practical work. Back to the top

What are the students like? Mixed age range and enthusiastic. Back to the top

What if I can't keep up with my work on the courses? Your tutor will advise you of support strategies available. Back to the top

Will I get individual help from the tutors? Named award students on all programmes are entitled to two tutorials in each academic year. Back to the top

How many hours should I allow for study? This depends on the individual and the course. In addition to classes you will need to allow time for reading and completing assignments. Back to the top

Will the degree help me get a better job? We can't guarantee you a better job. However, there is no doubt that it will enhance your prospects. Employers recognise the commitment needed to obtain a degree, and it is increasingly becoming a pre-requisite for employment within major companies. Back to the top