Opportunities in Higher Education
Mature Students
In 2009, almost 14% of students in higher education were ‘mature students’ (23 years old or more when they commence their first year of study). That’s almost one in every six students on campus, and the numbers continue to increase every year.
Some mature students are in higher education for the first time. Others have decided to return to 'up-skill' or change career. Mature students enter college through a range of different routes. Some have been in work, either in the home, in formal employment or in the voluntary sector. A number complete a further education qualification and decide they wish to progress.
All colleges have a range of supports and services in place to assist mature students. You can start with the information available on individual college websites and the national adult learning organisation Aontas as well as the county-based Adult Guidance Service. There is also a Mature Student Directory, accessible on Qualifax, the National Learners' Database.
Every year many colleges host information days/evenings specifically for mature students, where college staff are on-hand to talk with potential mature students about courses on offer and support services. Information events are normally advertised on the college's website well in advance, and in national and local newspapers.
Many colleges have a mature student society. These societies help to support mature students registered with the college. Typically, they organise social and other events for students of mature age, and provide opportunities for them to meet each other.