Real Learning for Real Life: Higher Education Courses at SERC are Open for Applications
0 min read
13 January 2025
Applications are open for Higher Education (HE) courses starting in September 2025 at South Eastern Regional College (SERC).
Anyone ready for the next step after further education or A-levels can explore the wide range of opportunities we offer by browsing the SERC Higher Education Prospectus online. Higher Education courses are available at SERC Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses and cover Degrees, Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas, Higher National Certificates, and Higher-Level Apprenticeships, which allow you to earn while you learn.
Bangor man Nathan Quee has discovered his career pathway at the College and would recommend the route to anyone looking to plan their next steps.
After A-levels, Nathan found that the university courses on offer were too general for his liking. Discovering that SERC offered the right course on his doorstep was great news.
He says: “I found out that SERC was offering a Foundation Degree in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics (validated by The Open University), so I applied - and it was the best decision I have ever made. You learn in smaller class sizes, so you really get to know your tutors and they get to know you. There are amazing support services, extra-curricular activities and as a bonus, studying at SERC is much cheaper than going to university!”
After his foundation degree, Nathan plans to progress at SERC and top up to the full BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics and then hopes to go on to university for a master’s degree.
Heather McKee, Deputy Principal Student Support Services, says applying to SERC via the College website is straightforward and opens more doors for anyone moving on from FE or A-levels:
“We work with partners such as Liverpool John Moores University, The Open University, Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, as well as Pearson, among others, to deliver respected qualifications. We are delighted that we are now listed on the UCAS platform, and it’s also important to note that prospective students can apply directly through the SERC website, right up until the term starts in September."
She adds, “We are committed to providing a practical, student-focused approach to Higher Education. Our focus on skills and our commitment to project-based learning supports our students to develop relevant abilities, which we know employers value. We offer state-of-the-art facilities for your course, whether that be in a theatre, a kitchen, an engineering workshop, a computer suite, or a salon.”
Nathan Quee says SERC delivers real learning for real life: “The courses are practical, and my course includes a 12-week work placement. Many of my tutors are industry-experienced and provide real-world context to what we are learning. To anyone thinking about Higher Education at SERC – absolutely do it.”
You can apply for HE courses starting in September here.
SERC’s award-winning careers team is available to help you explore your options and can offer impartial advice on your next step in education and training.
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