Success for adult learners

An innovative University scheme offering adult learners a way back into education has celebrated its second group of graduates.

Exploring the Past ­is a pathway developed to help adults realise their ambition to study history, ancient history, archaeology or religion at degree level.

This year, five of its students graduated with degrees in Archaeology, Ancient and Medieval History and History.

The students, whose studies began with the pathway, have each completed between four and six years of undergraduate education. Many of the group will also be starting master’s degrees later this year.

Pathway Co-ordinator Dr Paul Webster, Lecturer in Medieval History, said: "Everyone involved with Exploring the Past and the School of History, Archaeology and Religion is absolutely thrilled with the success of these students.

“Their inspirational degree results are a tribute to all their hard work and commitment since they returned to study on the pathway. All of them have overcome significant barriers and attained excellent degrees, proving that it’s never too late to take that life-changing step and enter higher education. We wish them all the very best for ongoing success with their future endeavours."

Pathways are taught and assessed in similar ways to first year undergraduate degree courses.

Regardless of previous qualifications, students initially study part-time for one year, with successful completion of the pathway guaranteeing an interview for a place on either a part-time or full-time degree.

Exploring the Past is one of 10 pathways available from the University’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education.

Further information is available on the Continuing and Professional Education pages.