Aged 21+GCSE English at grade 4/C or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 in EnglishCurrently resident within the UKMust not currently be studying at level 3 (for example, A-level or T-level study or equivalent)

Return To Study Programme

Unlock your future with the University of Cumbria

Are you thinking of returning to study after a break from education?

Not sure if university is for you, or worried you don’t have the skills or qualifications you need to study at degree level?

Our Return to Study programme is a free, four-week course that will help you make the transition to university and kickstart your dream career in occupational therapy, social work, and nursing (adult, mental health, or learning disabilities).

Don’t worry if you’re not sure whether you want to go to university or don’t meet all the entry requirements – this programme is all about exploring your options for further study and finding the best entry route to meet your needs. Our friendly tutors will be there to support you every step of the way.

Please note: this programme is only open to UK residents who are aged 21+ on or before 1 September 2024, and not currently studying at level 3 (for example, A-level study or equivalent).

All you need to do to apply is have a photo or scanned copy of your level 2 qualifications in English and Maths (for example GCSE or Functional Skills) to upload with your other information on our form. If you don't have a level 2 Maths qualification, you are still eligible to apply for our Return to Study programme – there is space on the form for you to tell us this.

The form takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and is split into 4 sections for ease. Each section needs to be completed before you can move onto the next section. You can save and return to the form at any time if you need to before submitting.

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Session Dates and Times

Please note: the following session dates and times are provisional. You will receive the final schedule once this has been finalised.

28 May 2024: 17:30-20:00
30 May 2024: 17:30-19:45
4 June 2024: 17:30-20:20
6 June 2024: 17:30-19:30
11 June 2024: 17:30-19:30
13 June 2024: 17:30-19:30
18 June 2024: 17:30-20:00
20 June 2024: 17:30-19:30

Course Location

Lancaster or Carlisle (Fusehill Street Campus)

Tuition Fees

Free

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WHY TAKE PART IN OUR RETURN TO STUDY PROGRAMME?

Get a taste of university life

with an immersive introduction to life and study at the University of Cumbria

Build your academic skills

to feel more confident in your application and transition to university after your break from education

Get a head start

in gaining a place on your chosen degree course

Meet other students

who could be studying the same course as you from September 2024

Boost your university application

with specialist support and guidance

Entry requirements

What will you do on the programme?

Our Return to Study programme takes place over eight evening sessions across four weeks and is designed to fit around your other commitments. Choose between our vibrant Lancaster and Carlisle (Fusehill Street) campuses for your face-to-face sessions, where you will master the fundamental academic and digital skills required for studying for a degree, explore what it means to be a health professional, and take part in sessions tailored to your chosen degree subject. You will meet our friendly teaching team and current students to discover first-hand what it’s like to study your chosen course. If you have any questions or are looking for personal advice and guidance, our team will be happy to help.

As well as face-to-face sessions, you will join us for convenient online sessions where you will explore our extensive student support services, and get expert guidance for your university application, including help with preparing for your interview.

This programme will prepare you to successfully progress to our degrees in Adult Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Learning Disabilities Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work (subject to meeting the entry requirements and passing your interview).

What happens after the programme?

If you choose to progress to an undergraduate degree, towards the end of the Return to Study programme you will be supported in preparing your application to study your choice of Adult Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Learning Disabilities Nursing, Occupational Therapy, or Social Work. As part of the application process, you will attend an interview on either 4 July 2024 or 5 July 2024.

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree, you might be eligible to apply for the Health and Social Care with Integrated Foundation Year degree. This will mean you study an additional foundation year, through which you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to progress to your chosen undergraduate degree.

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HEAR FROM PAST RETURN TO STUDY PARTICIPANTS

For anyone considering whether to apply for the Return to Study programme, I could not recommend it highly enough. Just investing that small amount of time has the potential to start you on a new path with enhanced prospects. It can seem daunting to take the first step but, speaking from experience, it is a step in the right direction.

Heidi Dyson
The Return to Study course helped me to gain some essential skills to progress into my dream career. The tutors were supportive and helpful throughout my time. It's a great opportunity for anyone. University of Cumbria is a lovely university with amazing support. It gave me confidence to use the university systems and what to expect in further education.

Lucy Vaughan
The course gave me clarity on my desired path and enabled me to attain the entry requirement for the nursing degree. The supportive environment and professional tutors made it an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in advancing their education. By the end of the course, I was digitally equipped, my academic writing had improved, and I was energised to embark on a journey of reaching what I had previously perceived as impossible.

Cecilia Njoroge
I found the summer school really beneficial and a positive experience. The course tutors supported the group throughout the course, and always answered questions and signposted where appropriate. The university staff were very welcoming and supportive, it felt very genuine as though we were wanted there as prospective future students.

Fiona Simpson