Choose SERC for your university level study

As A-Level students across Northern Ireland prepare to take the next step in their academic journey, SERC is encouraging talented and ambitious young people to explore the range of university level study opportunities available at their local Further Education College.

SERC is proud to offer higher education programmes across different vocational areas, to ensure that students receive high quality and relevant training to meet identified skills gaps.  These programmes have been designed in partnership with prestigious Higher Education institutions, including Liverpool John Moores University, The Open University, Queen’s University Belfast, and Ulster University and awarding bodies such as Pearson.

Choosing the right path after secondary school can be daunting, so SERC encourages students to consider all their available options, including those at their local Further Education College.  University-accredited courses at the College include HNCs, HNDs, Foundation Degrees, Degrees, and Higher-Level Apprenticeships, allowing students to study locally, gain real-world skills, and achieve cost savings.

There are many advantages for students who decide to stay local and study at their nearest Further Education College.  They will benefit from smaller class sizes allowing for a more focused teaching approach, lecturers have industry experience in their specific subject area, tuition fees are substantially lower than university fees and the industry standard facilities and equipment help students gain valuable skills and industry accredited qualifications which will improve their employability.  All vocational programmes at Further Education Colleges are developed in line with industry demand to ensure that they provide the right skills for progression to further study or employment.

Ken Webb, Principal and Chief Executive of SERC explains, “Deciding on the next step after leaving school can be a daunting and anxious time for young people and parents. It is vital that young people wishing to progress, are fully aware of the range of options and qualifications available to help them make better, informed choices. I would encourage them to look at the provision that is on offer at SERC, their local Further Education College, when planning their next step of their educational journey. Potential learners can find an extensive range of subject areas, sought-after qualifications and outstanding facilities delivered locally, with lower fees than universities.”

SERC’s expert lecturing and careers teams are committed to offering valuable information and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your future. As always, please get in touch with our impartial careers team if you have any further questions or if we can support you in anyway Tel: 0345 600 7555 or email careers@serc.ac.uk or call into your local campus to talk with our expert team.

Applications for courses starting in September 2024 are now open. Prospective students are encouraged to visit our website at www.serc.ac.uk, for detailed information about each programme, admission requirements, and the application process. 

Above: Alexandru Oncea is combining full time work with an HNC in International Travel & Tourism Management at SERC’s Lisburn Campus.