Part-time study
Quick links:
Changing to part-time study
Number of credits required
Access to University services
International students
Financial implications
Disabled Students Allowance
Going from part-time to full-time study
Q: I am unable to study full time at the moment due to illness/family commitments/work commitments. Can I study part-time?
A: Contact the Pro Dean (Undergraduate) or Pro Dean (Postgraduate). Although most degrees can be studied part-time, the structure of some courses makes satisfying the requirements of the degree very difficult if studied part-time. You should also visit Student Services for advice on the financial implications of part-time study.
However, if you require a VISA to stay in the UK (if you are a non-EEA national), then you cannot study part-time. For more details, contact the International and Cultural Adviser at Student Services.
Q: How many credits do part-time students take?
A: Part-time students are expected to complete their studies in double the time it takes a full-time student. Therefore they would be expected to take around half the credit load of a full-time student. For undergraduates, this would be between 60 and 80 credits per year. It is important to check with your adviser that you are taking all the required modules for your intended course because some modules may not be available every year.
Q: If I am a part-time student, is my access to University services reduced?
A: Since part-time students are still fully matriculated students, access to the , Athletic Union, Students’ Association, and student discount schemes are the same as for full-time students. Your matriculation card does not display whether you are a part-time student or not.
One aspect which may be affected is Student Accommodation. Part-time students are not normally offered accommodation in University Residences. Please contact Student Accommodation for further information.
Q: I am a non-EEA national/I require a passport to remain in the UK. Can I study part-time?
A: Unfortunately not. Your VISA has been issued based upon your full-time study. Therefore if you are not studying full-time, your VISA is invalid. For more details, contact the International and Cultural Adviser at Student Services.
Q: If I go part-time what are the financial implications?
A: There are several ways in which part-time studies can impact your finances.
Tuition fees
Part-time fees are determined by how many credits you are taking. You can have a look at the tuition fee structure here. You may also be eligible for a Part-time Fee Waiver or Individual Learning account.
Student Loans and other sources of funding
You will need to carefully check the terms of any loan, scholarship, bursary or sponsorship you are receiving as part of your study to see if it will be affected by a change to part-time study.
Council Tax
As a part-time student, you will be required to pay Council Tax. However, you may claim Council Tax Benefits based on your income.
Other financial considerations
There may be other benefits that are affected by a change to part-time status. To check these through, contact the Money Adviser at Student Services.
Q: I have a disability and receive Disabled Students Allowance, will this be affected by going part-time?
A: Go and have a chat with a Disability Adviser at Student Services. The University still has an obligation to provide you with the necessary support therefore in most cases the Disabled Student Allowance will be unaffected.
Q: I am a part-time student. How do I change to full-time study?
A: Contact the Pro Dean (Undergraduate) if you feel that you are able to take on full-time study. You should also contact the Money Adviser at Student Services.