Smiling student reading a book in the library.

Course and Career Pathways

College is an excellent pathway to further study or employment. Our courses can help you move on to university, get ready for employment or prepare you for an apprenticeship. Learn more about pathways through college using the resources on this page. 

College Pathways to University

Higher Education (HE) courses don’t always have to be studied at a university. You can start your degree at college, or in some cases while you are still at school. Colleges offer many of the subject areas you would expect from a university, and also offer full honours degrees in a number of areas.

Colleges also offer a wide range of practical, vocational courses, such as Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Associate Student Degrees. These courses are mainly run
in partnership with a university, and can enable students to progress to university with entry at year two or three.

College provides a very high level of teaching and learning support for students on Higher Education programmes and provides a more nurturing study environment. There are many benefits to studying your course at college, including:

  • smaller class sizes
  • flexible study options, including part-time
  • more class contact hours and individual study support
  • progression pathways to degree courses.

If you are planning to study at university, it is a good idea to consider college as a pathway. One or two years studying at college can prepare you to succeed at university and you will also learn the practical hands-on skills employers are looking for.

Student sitting at a bench outside a campus building, working on a tablet with their bag and books next to them.

Pathways

The Pathways website can help you find your route to university through an agreed college pathway.

Visit the Pathways website
Lecturer is helping a student by showing them something on their laptop.

Career Coach

A course and career matching portal to help you make informed decisions about your course options.

Group of students working together at a big table with laptops open. On a wall at the front of a room, one of the students is sticking up post-it notes into groups.

My World of Work

Get information and advice about your career options from My World of Work.

Visit the My World of Work website