Low cost routes into higher education launched in Plymouth

Released: 11.12.24

Plymouth Marjon University and On Course South West are excited to announce a new partnership that will significantly enhance access to higher education for adult learners in Plymouth and the surrounding areas. This collaboration, set to launch in January 2025, will offer a diverse range of Access to Higher Education (HE) courses, providing a clear pathway to university-level studies.

The new courses will cover a range of subjects, including Creative Industries, Education & Early Years, English & Humanities, Health Science, Nursing, Sports Studies and Sports Science. These programmes are designed to prepare students for higher education and offer opportunities for progression into degree courses at Plymouth Marjon University.

Michelle Jones, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost at Plymouth Marjon University, said:

"This partnership with On Course South West aligns perfectly with our commitment to widening participation in higher education. By offering these Access to Higher Education courses, we're opening doors for adult learners who may have previously felt that university was out of reach. "The collaboration brings together two institutions known for their supportive, community-focused approach to education. Both Plymouth Marjon University and On Course South West pride themselves on their small, friendly environments and high student satisfaction rates, making this partnership a natural fit.”

On Course South West is Plymouth City Council’s adult learning provider. Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, added:

“It’s really important that adults are supported to access higher education, so that they can benefit from higher-paying jobs and in turn, the city benefits as people are able to fill skills gaps in key industries. This fantastic new partnership will play an important role by making it easier for adults to access university.”

Adults aged 19 and over, with no upper age limit, are eligible to apply for these courses. No formal qualifications are required, making higher education accessible to a wide range of learners. Students can benefit from Adult Learner Loans, allowing them to study now and pay later. These loans are written off if the learner completes a higher education course, and repayments only begin when the individual earns over £25,000 per year.

Mark Trewin, Principal of On Course South West, commented:

"We're thrilled to partner with Plymouth Marjon University to offer these Access courses. Our shared ethos of providing supportive, high-quality education in a community-focused setting makes this collaboration particularly beneficial for adult learners in the region."

Find out more about the Access to HE courses and how to apply here, or contact a learning advisor directly at 01752 660713.