Where do I start?!

[scarlett]

On a similar note to the other Scarlett's question, I am also considering studying full time as a 'mature' student (I'm 25). I would really appreciate any help you can give me on where to go for advice on which course/university/mode of study to pick as I'm finding it very difficult to make the first step. Many thanks!

[stoo_pid]

Start here - http://www.ucas.com/search/index.html

I went to Uni as a mature student in my late twenties & I was amazed at how many courses covered my interest area - far too many to synthesise easily.  If it helps, the way I went about it was to search UCAS for possible courses/unis & then contact each potential uni for a prospectus. 

I then drew up a grid of things that were important to me - in my case these were, course content, course requirements (e.g specific A-levels etc), location, whether mature-student-friendly or not, availability of open days (to check the place out) and general gut-feeling and marked out of 5 for each one accordingly.  Eventually I got it down to the 8 that I applied for.

Interestingly the uni I ended up going to (and having the time of my life at) I would have rejected if I'd based it on my first impressions instead of my little grid.

The only other tip I would give you is to at least start looking now - it takes a lot longer to organise than you might think...

Good luck!

[Westminster]

As one who has worked on 'the other side of the desk' as an admissions tutor, I'd urge you to consider carefully what you're interested in. It's three years of your life, and to an increasing extent it's your money. Then look on the internet for prospectuses, look at the 'What University' guides in the library, and above all visit the places that interest you. Don't be put off by their (our) standard offer; come and ask question before you commit yourself.