Mature Student

[glammapus]

Does anyone know what qualifications you need to study as a mature student at university? I really want to study Midwifery but dont have any GCSE's as i'm retaking them in september, and i only have a BTEC first diploma in Travel and Tourism which is no use to anyone. I am 21.

[zuzazak]

it all depends on what course you want to do and where you want to do it. have a look at some prosepctuses from lots of different unis, and they will tell you what you need.

[Buenchico]

The requirements for mature students vary between universities. Some institutions just use phrases such as 'evidence of ability to study at university level', while others specify 'a merit or distinction in a QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education Certificate'.

You'll definitely require at least 5 GCSE passes, at grades A to C, including Maths, English Language and at least one science subject. Normally, you'd need A-levels as well but, as a mature student, an Access to Higher Education Certificate would probably suffice. This is usually obtained through undertaking a foundation course at a further education college.

The Nursing and Midwifery Admissions Service has a list of universities and colleges which offer training courses. If you click on each of the links, you'll get some idea of the requirements of each institution. (Note that some institutions might not offer midwifery training or that their entry requirements might be different for midwifery to nursing):
http://www.nmas.ac.uk/instit/index.html

Chris

[gammaray]

you're hardly a "mature" student at 21. A diploma in travel and tourism is quite useful in the sense that it shows you have the capacity to study. Don't be disheartened; there's more than one way of skinning a cat (not literally... before the cats protection league get on my case).

[atoach]

pace Gammaray you are indeed a mature student if you are entering university for the first time at 21. And regulations about '5 GCSEs', A-levels, etc. do not necessarily apply to mature students. Gammaray is quite right in that the BTEC shows you have the capacity to study. So look up likely courses, and contact the relevant institutions, and good luck!

PS I have also answered this on your other thread.

[natty23]

in midwifery experience counts for a hell of a lot, so try and get as much work experience as you can or do voluntary work. lots of colleges do 'access to nursing courses' which are acceptable for midwifery also (and you don't need GCSE'), but competition is high, so sell yourself and make your personal statement stand out.