Centre for Lifelong Learning
- Centre for Lifelong Learning
- Undergraduate Study
- General Programme Information
General Programme Information
Studying for Undergraduate Credit
Our Certificates of Higher Education are taught at undergraduate stage 1, and all are open entry. There are, therefore no formal entry requirements for any of these modules - all that you need is interest and enthusiasm.
What will I gain?
Whilst all courses are open access, they still offer you the chance to study at the same level as first year undergraduates and receive the same level of credit. Our tutors are experienced and supportive, and all our modules are conducted in a friendly and informal atmosphere, designed to meet your specific demands. The higher certificates are equivalent in standard and workload to the full first year of an undergraduate degree programme, and are worth 120 credits at stage 1.
What are credits?
Modules which carry accreditation are indicated in the brochure with a credit value of either 10 or 20 credits. These can be ‘picked and mixed’ and saved up over a number of years, and you will be offered help and advice as you progress through the programme. 60 credit milestone awards in Social Sciences and Arts and Humanities can also be awarded.
What are my study options?
There are currently a wide range of modules from which to choose – please consult the appropriate diagram or contact the Centre to discuss how you can build towards one of the certificate awards. Please note that usually students are not allowed to be registered on more than one higher education programme of study at a time. More information about the available programmes of study can be found at Undergraduate Programme Specifications. You can find out further information about the Centre's modules on the Module Catalogue.
What work will I need to undertake?
To receive credits you have to produce successful assessment tasks. These vary from module to module, but normally for a 10-credit module these consist of a single 2,000 word essay that you produce in your own time, and which is submitted at the conclusion of the module. At this level, there are no closed examinations for students, but if this aspect of accredited study does raise questions for you, please do not hesitate to contact the Centre. Anyone studying for credit can also use the library and computing facilities here at the University to get the most out of their learning experience.
Can I go further?
For those students who would like to continue further with their studies beyond the Centre for Lifelong Learning there are progression opportunities available. Credits you receive are also a common currency nationally, so could be employed to demonstrate ability for a programme outside the Centre, or even contribute to an award at another institution. We have arrangements with the Department of Archaeology, the Department of History, the Department of History of Art and the Department of Sociology for progression from Lifelong Learning modules to undergraduate study within department - please see the information at the bottom of this page for the contact details for each department's Admissions Tutor.
What language skills will I need?
For international students, we recommend a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 to engage in accredited level study (please note that this is not mandatory, but should be considered for those students for whom English is not their first language).
How is the programme structured?
Students are encouraged to undertake study at a pace which suits them. For many, this consists of taking one module per term, and occasionally taking a term off. However, should you wish to progress through the programme at a faster rate and feel that you are able to commit the necessary time to your studies, it is possible to take multiple modules each term – please do call the Centre if you would like to discuss this further and explore fast-track options through the awards. The normal maximum registration period for students to complete a University Certificate of Lifelong Learning (60 credits) is three years; for a Certificate of Higher Education in Lifelong Learning (120 credits) the total registration period is five years.
Will I have access to the Univerity Library and IT Services?
Students will receive an email with the title 'University of York Joining Instructions' at the start of their studies. This will tell you how to set up or upgrade your IT account and complete online enrolment. All new and returning students are required to complete online enrolment each academic year. Students will also have access to the University library, including e-resources.
Progression to departments
Study at Lifelong Learning can also lead to undergraduate study at a selection of departments here at York.
Archaeology
Upon completion of 60 or 120 credits, it may be possible for students to progress to the Department of Archaeology for undergraduate study. The following gives an indication of what the department would be looking for:
- For first year entry, 60 credits from Lifelong Learning with good marks. Students would need to apply via UCAS by January each year.
- For direct second year entry: 120 credits from Lifelong Learning with good marks (all of the credits must be from Archaeology modules) and two/three weeks digging (offered to Lifelong Learning students during April each year). Students wanting direct entry to the second year should speak to the Admissions Tutor in the department in the first instance.
- Please note: it is not possible to progress straight to Masters from Lifelong Learning modules.
History
Upon completion of 60 credits, it may be possible for students to progress to the Department of History for undergraduate study. The following gives an indication of what the department would be looking for:
- For first year entry, 60 credits from Lifelong Learning with good marks. Students would need to apply via UCAS by January each year.
Sociology
Upon completion of 60 credits, it may be possible for students to progress to the Department of Sociology for undergraduate study. The following gives an indication of what the department would be looking for:
- For first year entry, 60 credits from Lifelong Learning with good marks. Students would need to apply via UCAS by January each year.
History of Art
For first year entry, 60 credits from Lifelong Learning with good marks. Students would need to apply via UCAS.
For further information about progression to the Department of History of Art, please contact the HoA admissions team at histart-ug-admissions@york.ac.uk.