Path to success

A record number of adult learners have started undergraduate degrees at Cardiff University via part-time courses that are an alternative to A-levels.

Some 41 learners completed a ‘pathway’ programme with the University’s Continuing and Professional Education team and have now progressed to a degree.

Pathway courses, which take place at evenings and weekends, often do not require prior qualifications.

Students gain credits which allow them to apply for degree studies within Cardiff University and other Higher Education providers. 

This innovative approach allows students to receive advice, study support and experience of Higher Education before committing to undergraduate study.  

Eleven pathways are available covering subjects such as healthcare; modern languages; business management or accounting; history, archaeology or religion; and English language, literature and philosophy.

One of this year’s pathway students, Loren Williams from Cardiff, has now started a degree in midwifery.

She said: “I have gained so much more than the academic requirements needed to apply to study at degree level.

“My self-esteem has been built up, I have a new social group with like-minded individuals and improved my organisational skills.

“Anything is possible, all you have to do is put your mind to it, believe in yourself and take the leap.

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity at the age of 30, with two children, a job and a husband to finally follow my dreams.”

Another success story is Jordan Graham, who recently moved to Wales from Canada, who is now studying a degree in history.

He said following a pathway programme had allowed him to meet new people with similar interests while furthering his education.

“With a wide range of classes offered in the Exploring the Past pathway, I discovered many new-found interests in various subjects within the School of History, Archaeology and Religion,” he said.

“This was all made possible with the constant support of the dedicated tutors running the courses – I greatly looked forward to class each week and enjoyed trying something new.”