Tag: Higher Education

Categories
Post

Human Resources Management and Practices Support Learning Programme

Eskilz College Education

Did you know that we offer a FET Certificate in Human Resources Management and Practices Support Learning Programme?

(NQF Level 4)

Brief overview of the Purpose of this course:

This qualification will be useful to people who support and participate in human resources management and practices.

People credited with this qualification are able to:

Collect, collate, and distribute information related to people management in line with a given plan.

Provide advice on or refer to appropriate person in response to queries on organisation procedures related to people management.

Demonstrate basic understanding of people dynamics and impact in the workplace.

Demonstrate basic understanding of the functioning of business and the role and contribution of individuals within organisations.

Support the implementation of processes and systems related to human resources management and practices in all of the following role clusters:

> Strategic planning for human resources management and practices, people and work.

> Acquisition, development and utilisation of people.

> Establishment and improvement of labour and employee relations.

> Compensation and administration related to human resources management and practices.

Rationale of Human Resources:

Organisations require persons who are able to support human resources management processes and practices.

There is also a need for an initial qualification as a possible first leg of a learning progression path in the human resources management and practices field.

Learners need the qualification to increase their access to employment. It will enable persons who are fulfilling some of the support roles in human resources management and practices without formal qualifications to obtain recognition for their competence.

The specified components in the core category will ensure portability across the Human Resources Management and Practices role clusters, whilst the elective category will make provision for specialisation in a specific area..

Categories
Post

Are you on the right career path?

Eskilz College has the answers you’re looking for.

 

 

 

Do what you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.

 

 

 

 

 

We have all been through that stage of the unknown where we had difficulty in choosing the adequate path that benefits our future and career path. Matric students are generally stressed out and already pulling their hairs out without having to deal with which is the best career path to take.

Remember that every occupation plays a vital role in society. The job market is vast so this means that you are able to choose a career path that best suits your personality and abilities. The lack of career guidance from high school is one of the main reasons why learners delay on going to university; some many even drop out mid-year because they do not have a passion for what they are studying. A few students take a year to find out what fields may peak their interest before pursuing a career.

A good place to start before entering the career path is a self-analysis; this includes asking yourself the following questions:

  • What type of person am I?
  • What are my interests?
  • What am I really good at?
  • What do I struggle with?
  • Am I a follower or a leader?

It is always beneficial to speak to individuals that are already in the respective fields to gain insight from a personal level.  At Eskilz College we have facilitators that are qualified and experienced to give you the best advice for your career path. Contact us today and let us assist you with finding the path for you. Education is power and we believe that every individual has the potential to reach for the stars and become the leaders of tomorrow by climbing the ladder to success..

Categories
Post

17 Years – 17 Bursaries

Creating the leaders of tomorrow

 

 

We are proud to announce our 17 years of business. Eskilz was founded in 2002 by CEO – Mr Kamal P Timmal. Eskilz was founded by the need for businesses to be compliant with the new acts and laws passed by the government after the birth of democracy.

 

Without being compliant a lot of businesses were facing fines, closure and loss of income. Here was the niché that Mr.Timmal identified. An entrepreneur, mentor and motivational speaker; he shared the passion to succeed with his clients. Mr. Timmal envisioned a business solution all under one roof. A one stop, business shop if you like.

 

Today Eskilz offers just that, a turnkey business solution. We have since grown into various legs. Each leg strategically set up to service each aspect of your business. Beyond compliance Eskilz now boasts being a fully accredited training provider, a college, business start-up solution and more. Eskilz has been recognised as a leader in the industry.

 

We offer various opportunities to individuals so they can build themselves up and accomplish dreams. Although we are always looking for ways to give back. Through our 17 years – 17 Bursaries initiative we have found a way to empower the youth of tomorrow. We are offering bursaries to 17 inspired young men and woman who are knowledge hungry and looking for a way to build themselves up and create a bright future. Listed below are the bursaries that we are offering:

 

 

Bursaries for the leaders of tomorrow

Do something today that your future self will thank you for.

 

 

ETQA Body USIDQualification NQF Level
LG SETA

 

 

49552General education and training certificate: environmental practiceNQF Level 01
50372Further education and training certificate: municipal finance and administrationNQF Level 04
50205National certificate: municipal integrated development planningNQF Level 05
    
MICT49077National Certificate: Information Technology: End User ComputingNQF Level 03
    
HWSETA74410Further Education and Training Certificate: Public Awareness Promotion of Dread Disease and HIV/AIDSNQF Level 04
    
WRSETA49280National Certificate: Wholesale and Retails DistributionLevel 2
58206National Certificate: Wholesale and Retail OperationsLevel 2
    
ETDP

 

 

 

 

58761Further Education & Training Certificate: Early Childhood Development – Level 4NQF Level 04
64650National Diploma: Early Childhood DevelopmentNQF Level 05
115753Conduct outcomes-based assessmentNQF Level 05
115759Conduct moderation of outcomes-based assessmentsNQF Level 06
117871Facilitate learning using a variety of given methodologiesNQF Level 05
    
 SERVICES66248Further Education & Training Certificate: New Venture CreationsNQF Level 04
50080Further Education & Training Certificate: Project ManagementNQF Level 04
    

 

Ready to apply?

Dream it. Wish it. Do it.

 

Requirements:

  • 18 Years +
  • Matric Certificate
  • Image of yourself
  • No Selfies

 

 

Essay

600 words +

 

Topic:

Why you stand out from the rest and deserve this opportunity to break boundaries.

 

 

Send your submissions to:

Kavisha Hurbans –  info@marketingmatterz.co.za

 

The key to success is to focus on goals, not obstacles.

We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your goals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 .

Categories
Post

What if your parents don’t agree with your study choice?

Many Matriculants considering their study options for next year are finding themselves in the difficult position of being at odds with their parents or guardians about their preferred direction. While this conundrum has always been around, it is even more pronounced today, given that there are a myriad qualifications and careers that didn’t exist even a few years ago.

Parents often have expectations of the potential careers they see their children pursuing and it can be hard for them and their children to get on the same page when the parents are in favour of the more traditional qualifications, while the child would prefer to pursue a qualification the parents don’t know much about.

Education experts say it is important for families to have a respectful dialogue based on facts and research when they find themselves in this position.

The following might help both parent and child:

DO THE RESEARCH AND UNDERSTAND THE OPTIONS

There are many more study options today than in the past. The range of qualifications on offer has grown exponentially, while the institutions offering them have also multiplied. All registered and accredited higher education institutions – whether they be public universities or private – are registered by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). They are only registered if they have been accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Looking up a qualification on the NQF is as easy as going to the SAQA website and typing in a few words. An institution should also be able to give you the SAQA identity number immediately. This means that prospective students and their parents can be confident about the bona fides of any qualification they want to pursue, provided that the institution is recognised by DHET and the programme is listed on the NQF which can be found on the SAQA website.

FACE REALITY

The world of work looks a lot different today than it did a decade ago, with numerous new and emerging careers on offer, such as brand management, big data analysis, app development, and digital design, to name a few. The traditional, generic 3-year degree is no longer a golden ticket to landing a job.

Prospective students would do well to pursue a career-focused qualification which fits well with their talents and interests, and which will prepare them to step into the workplace with confidence. Career-focused qualifications will often also include work-integrated learning, which allows students to build a portfolio of work throughout their time at varsity. This puts them in a much stronger position after graduation when applying for a position.

UNDERSTAND THE MARKETPLACE

What can you do with your qualification after graduation? That is an important question to ask before committing to a programme. A great way to determine the demand for a qualification and your future earning potential, is to look at career sites and job ads, to see how much demand there is in marketplace. Speaking to an advisor at a higher education institution’s career centre can also go a long way to clarifying your prospects post-graduation.

UNDERSTAND THE MOTIVATION FOR STUDYING

Pursuing a degree requires a substantial investment of time and money. And handling the demands of higher education and young adulthood is not a walk in the park. The dropout rate among first years is very high, in part because the reason for heading to university wasn’t sound.

So if the motivation for further study is for the sake of status rather than to lay the foundations for a specific and successful career, or if a student is only studying to fulfil the wishes of their parents, it would be better to wait, investigate all the options, and only apply when they have found something that gets them really excited about your future.

Parents need to understand that the best approach now is to study and prepare for a world that’s changing, and that the traditional way and ‘safe’ careers may not be the best course of action.

Students need to understand that while the difference in opinion may be frustrating, it is up to them to present their case calmly, clearly and respectfully, with the research to back up the viability and prospects of their choice.

.

Categories
Post

What if your parents don’t agree with your study choice?

Many Matriculants considering their study options for next year are finding themselves in the difficult position of being at odds with their parents or guardians about their preferred direction. While this conundrum has always been around, it is even more pronounced today, given that there are a myriad qualifications and careers that didn’t exist even a few years ago.

Parents often have expectations of the potential careers they see their children pursuing and it can be hard for them and their children to get on the same page when the parents are in favour of the more traditional qualifications, while the child would prefer to pursue a qualification the parents don’t know much about.

Education experts say it is important for families to have a respectful dialogue based on facts and research when they find themselves in this position.

The following might help both parent and child:

DO THE RESEARCH AND UNDERSTAND THE OPTIONS

There are many more study options today than in the past. The range of qualifications on offer has grown exponentially, while the institutions offering them have also multiplied. All registered and accredited higher education institutions – whether they be public universities or private – are registered by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). They are only registered if they have been accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Looking up a qualification on the NQF is as easy as going to the SAQA website and typing in a few words. An institution should also be able to give you the SAQA identity number immediately. This means that prospective students and their parents can be confident about the bona fides of any qualification they want to pursue, provided that the institution is recognised by DHET and the programme is listed on the NQF which can be found on the SAQA website.

FACE REALITY

The world of work looks a lot different today than it did a decade ago, with numerous new and emerging careers on offer, such as brand management, big data analysis, app development, and digital design, to name a few. The traditional, generic 3-year degree is no longer a golden ticket to landing a job.

Prospective students would do well to pursue a career-focused qualification which fits well with their talents and interests, and which will prepare them to step into the workplace with confidence. Career-focused qualifications will often also include work-integrated learning, which allows students to build a portfolio of work throughout their time at varsity. This puts them in a much stronger position after graduation when applying for a position.

UNDERSTAND THE MARKETPLACE

What can you do with your qualification after graduation? That is an important question to ask before committing to a programme. A great way to determine the demand for a qualification and your future earning potential, is to look at career sites and job ads, to see how much demand there is in marketplace. Speaking to an advisor at a higher education institution’s career centre can also go a long way to clarifying your prospects post-graduation.

UNDERSTAND THE MOTIVATION FOR STUDYING

Pursuing a degree requires a substantial investment of time and money. And handling the demands of higher education and young adulthood is not a walk in the park. The dropout rate among first years is very high, in part because the reason for heading to university wasn’t sound.

So if the motivation for further study is for the sake of status rather than to lay the foundations for a specific and successful career, or if a student is only studying to fulfil the wishes of their parents, it would be better to wait, investigate all the options, and only apply when they have found something that gets them really excited about your future.

Parents need to understand that the best approach now is to study and prepare for a world that’s changing, and that the traditional way and ‘safe’ careers may not be the best course of action.

Students need to understand that while the difference in opinion may be frustrating, it is up to them to present their case calmly, clearly and respectfully, with the research to back up the viability and prospects of their choice.

.

Categories
Post

How to manage your time during final exams

With Matric finals underway and learners heading to exam venues, the bulk of reviewing should now be over, and the limited time available during the exams should be strategically managed, an education expert says.

The National Senior Certificate exams represent the culmination of 12 years of hard work, and will play an important part in determining what options are open to you after school. But even though the final exams are an undeniably important milestone, learners shouldn’t become overwhelmed by the stress of exams and the fear of failure.

Planning and reviewing should now move from the general to the specific by doing the following:

GET ORGANISED

Just before you enter the exam period is a good time to review your study schedule. What work do you still need to cover, and how much time will you have between papers? Draw up a new roster taking into account the realities of the next few weeks and ensure you stick to it.

Create a neat working environment and a clear plan for what you need to do and study every day, and ensure that you have all the necessary materials sorted and on hand.

NARROW DOWN YOUR REVIEWING

Once you enter the exam period, you should have adequately covered all your materials. With little time available between papers, you must now focus your attention on the sections of work that are almost certainly going to be tested and master them, rather than trying to re-read all your textbooks in their entirety.

BREATHE, AND GET YOUR HEAD IN THE RIGHT SPACE

Your biggest weapon right now is the ability to remain calm and perform under pressure. Download one of the many mindfulness apps available online (Headspace is a good one), and invest 5-10 minutes in calming down your nerves before you step into the exam room. Managing your anxiety ahead of each paper will go a long way towards helping you avoid mind blanks during the exam.

STAY HEALTHY

Don’t start stress-eating or staying up into the early morning hours before an exam to cram. No matter how hard you worked, if your body and mind are tired and worn out, you won’t be able to accurately reflect your effort in your papers.

Take regular scheduled breaks, get plenty of water, exercise and sleep, and ensure you eat as healthy as possible.

DON’T STRESS ABOUT PAPERS ALREADY WRITTEN, BUT DON’T RELAX TOO SOON EITHER

As the exam progresses and the list of subjects you still need to write become shorter and shorter, don’t start relaxing too soon. Keeping the focus right until the end and working for each mark can mean the difference between being accepted into the institution and course of your choice, or having to look at other options.

On the other hand, if things didn’t go well in one subject, let it go and focus on what lies ahead. Stop stressing about the subjects you’ve already written, because there is nothing more you can do about those results. You can, however, still make up for a disappointment by focusing and performing as well as possible in upcoming papers.

DEFER YOUR CONCERNS, BUT KEEP THE END GOAL IN MIND

What if I don’t pass as well as I need to? Have I left applying to uni too late? Don’t let questions such as these take up mental energy during the exams. Instead, keep a laser focus on the task at hand – doing as well as possible on each paper, and earning every point you possibly can.

It is helpful to continually visualise your plans for next year, and match that dream with the performance you need to get there. But don’t let these motivational thoughts turn negative. After the exams, you still have time to investigate all your study options, and to match your interests and performance to the amazing higher education paths available..

Categories
Post

How to manage your time during final exams

With Matric finals underway and learners heading to exam venues, the bulk of reviewing should now be over, and the limited time available during the exams should be strategically managed, an education expert says.

The National Senior Certificate exams represent the culmination of 12 years of hard work, and will play an important part in determining what options are open to you after school. But even though the final exams are an undeniably important milestone, learners shouldn’t become overwhelmed by the stress of exams and the fear of failure.

Planning and reviewing should now move from the general to the specific by doing the following:

GET ORGANISED

Just before you enter the exam period is a good time to review your study schedule. What work do you still need to cover, and how much time will you have between papers? Draw up a new roster taking into account the realities of the next few weeks and ensure you stick to it.

Create a neat working environment and a clear plan for what you need to do and study every day, and ensure that you have all the necessary materials sorted and on hand.

NARROW DOWN YOUR REVIEWING

Once you enter the exam period, you should have adequately covered all your materials. With little time available between papers, you must now focus your attention on the sections of work that are almost certainly going to be tested and master them, rather than trying to re-read all your textbooks in their entirety.

BREATHE, AND GET YOUR HEAD IN THE RIGHT SPACE

Your biggest weapon right now is the ability to remain calm and perform under pressure. Download one of the many mindfulness apps available online (Headspace is a good one), and invest 5-10 minutes in calming down your nerves before you step into the exam room. Managing your anxiety ahead of each paper will go a long way towards helping you avoid mind blanks during the exam.

STAY HEALTHY

Don’t start stress-eating or staying up into the early morning hours before an exam to cram. No matter how hard you worked, if your body and mind are tired and worn out, you won’t be able to accurately reflect your effort in your papers.

Take regular scheduled breaks, get plenty of water, exercise and sleep, and ensure you eat as healthy as possible.

DON’T STRESS ABOUT PAPERS ALREADY WRITTEN, BUT DON’T RELAX TOO SOON EITHER

As the exam progresses and the list of subjects you still need to write become shorter and shorter, don’t start relaxing too soon. Keeping the focus right until the end and working for each mark can mean the difference between being accepted into the institution and course of your choice, or having to look at other options.

On the other hand, if things didn’t go well in one subject, let it go and focus on what lies ahead. Stop stressing about the subjects you’ve already written, because there is nothing more you can do about those results. You can, however, still make up for a disappointment by focusing and performing as well as possible in upcoming papers.

DEFER YOUR CONCERNS, BUT KEEP THE END GOAL IN MIND

What if I don’t pass as well as I need to? Have I left applying to uni too late? Don’t let questions such as these take up mental energy during the exams. Instead, keep a laser focus on the task at hand – doing as well as possible on each paper, and earning every point you possibly can.

It is helpful to continually visualise your plans for next year, and match that dream with the performance you need to get there. But don’t let these motivational thoughts turn negative. After the exams, you still have time to investigate all your study options, and to match your interests and performance to the amazing higher education paths available..

Categories
Post

Funding options for your studies

Looking for a means to fund your studies can be one of the most stressful aspects when thinking of furthering your studies, but there are many options for students who are not financially able to simply pay for each course.

Most of the bigger universities in South Africa offer financial aid to students who are unable to fund their studies and/or have achieved excellent academic results (even more reason to hit the books in matric!)

1. Financial Aid

If you are not in the financial position to pay for your studies, Financial Aid is ample at many of the bigger institutions. You can be eligible for financial aid for a variety of things – primarily of course, if you are not in a financial position to pay for your fees. But there are also financial aid options for people who have excelled in previous studies or academics. To find out whether you are eligible for this aid, you will have to make a stop at your institution’s financial aid office, as details differ from varsity to varsity or college to college.

2. Bursaries & Scholarships

If you’re not interested in taking out a loan and have a good academic record you should consider looking for a bursary or a scholarship. While many universities will know of bursaries that are available to students (so you should definitely ask about these), you can also benefit from looking for your own bursary or scholarship.

3. Student Loans

Student loans are another option for students who are looking to fund their studies – most bank institutions have financing options for students. It is important to consider what taking out a student loan from a bank means. It requires the student begin paying back the loan after they graduate. Student loans also have a huge interest mark-up and require the student start paying between 3-6 months after graduating. It is important to note that you will need a parent or guardian to sign surety and pay the interest until you graduate and can start paying back the loan.

4. NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is an option that often works in conjunction with your university of choice by providing funding for students who have little to no familial income. NSFAS is a government organisation which aims to provide an efficient and sustainable financial aid system for poor yet academically eligible students. NSFAS enables these kinds of students to obtain loans and bursaries at 26 public higher education institutions and 50 technical and vocational education training colleges.

A student who receives a NSFAS loan is required to start paying back the loan at the beginning of the year after the student has become employed or becomes self-employed (irrespective of whether the student has completed his or her studies).

5. Part-time Work

If all else fails, you have the option of working and studying part-time. This is certainly a harder option.  It is one which requires a vast amount of dedication to complete your studies, while being focused and committed to your day job. If working full-time and studying part-time is not an option, consider getting a student job. This can help take the pressure off your parents providing money for living expenses.

There are so many ways to fund your studies in South Africa, so don’t despair if one option doesn’t work for you. The best strategy is always to ask as many questions as you can. Talk to your university or college about funding, job opportunities, bursaries and scholarships.  They might know how to help you fund the most important decision of your life!

 .

Categories
Post

Advantages and Disadvantages of taking a gap year

After 18 years in a classroom, you might be ready for a break. Taking a gap year between high school and college gives you an opportunity to recharge your batteries, whether you work, volunteer, or travel the globe, taking time away from school could give you a fresh sense of purpose.

Of course, there are also gap year disadvantages you should know about. Before committing, make sure to consider all the gap year pros and cons.

Advantage: It’ll make your CV look pretty snazzy

A gap year can provide a person with valuable new skills that any employer will be impressed by. Cultural awareness, organization, and an ability to work independently are just some of the skills that are gained by taking a year out.

Disadvantage: You’ll be a year behind

This can be a tough one for many people. They wave as their friends all trek to college and start their new lives and they are left behind. They can’t start their new adventure yet because they don’t have the cash. This is easily offset by working hard and saving cash quickly in order to jet off as soon as possible.

Advantage: You’ll meet new people

On a gap year it’s impossible not to meet new people. Throughout school and college we are surrounded by the same people but taking a gap year allows us to discover others, make new friends, and interact with people from all walks of life.

Disadvantage: You’ll be homesick

It’s something that hits most of us at some point. Whether you’re missing family, friends or simply home comforts, you may find yourself wondering why you chose a life on the road (if you chose to travel for your gap year). But fear not! The joy of travel is that there is always somebody to meet and something to do. Power through and you’ll be glad you did.

Advantage: You’ll have tons of stories

After spending a year away, the stories will mount up; these can be great conversation starters in the interview room, at parties or, simply just to look back on and remember.

Disadvantage: It’s a risk

Sure, it is! But where do we get in life if we aren’t willing to take risks? This is what makes a gap year so exciting; not knowing what to expect is all part of the adventure. The key is to take care and travel with common sense. Fun fact: I’ve yet to meet a gap year traveler or career breaker who “regretted” their decision to hit the road.

Advantage: It’s a long escape from the daily grind

A gap year, for most people, is the period of non-traditional life that you’ll ever have. It is often a once in a lifetime experience and the chance to escape the daily grind. However, if planned right, it will also be an educational opportunity of growth and other benefits and not just a “vacation” or year off. A gap year should be a year on.

 Disadvantage: It can be expensive

This depends on the destination and the duration of the trip but, chances are, when taking a gap year, you’re going to spend quite a bit of cash. The best way to fund a gap year is to work and travel at the same time. It’s also a good idea to plan trips independently as this will cut costs dramatically – for the first-time traveler this may be a little difficult and paying extra for the help of someone to do it for you might be a good idea.

 

 

 

 .

Categories
Post

Why study part time?

Part-time study becomes ever more popular as people try to juggle earning with learning. Whether you’re picking up a professional qualification, or progressing with your academic study, part-time study offers a viable alternative for those who can’t commit to full-time postgraduate courses.

WHAT IS PART-TIME STUDY & WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

Essentially, part-time study involves spreading a full-time postgraduate course over a longer period of time. It’s usually tailored for those who want to continue working while studying, and usually involves committing an afternoon or an evening each week to attend classes or lectures.

Some institutions have taken it a step further and are offering some postgraduate courses through distance learning and e-learning, where the student rarely has to attend the university; receiving tuition, teaching and learning resources via the internet instead.

As a result, yearlong or shorter courses, such as master’s degrees, PGCerts and PGDips, are extended over two or three years. You can also do part-time PhDs, which might take up to six years to complete, or part-time MPhils (basically similar to a PhD but lower in the academic pecking order), which tend to take around four or five years.

Students doing part-time PhDs might juggle their research with a teaching fellowship. Alternatively, you might take a professional doctorate, which is for people pursuing professional rather than academic careers.

The majority of students on a professional doctoral course will be studying part-time, as they’ll already be well on their way in their career. Of course though, there are exceptions, with some professional doctorates only being offered on a full-time basis.

WHY STUDY PART-TIME?

Part-time courses are there for people who can’t commit the time and resources to studying full-time at postgraduate level. You might take up a part-time postgraduate course for personal development, for the purposes of career progression, or simply because you’re really interested in the subject.

If anything, part-time study can be a bit of an indulgence, a way to continue learning whilst embarking on a career.

ADVANTAGES OF STUDYING PART-TIME

– You can study whilst earning a wage. If your qualification is taken for career development reasons, then your employer might agree to pay your tuition fees.

– Studying part-time means you won’t be taking a break from your career and you won’t need to relocate for your studies, particularly if you’re studying through distance learning. You can avoid being sucked into the university bubble and keep your foot firmly in the professional world.

– It can help you to spread the cost of tuition fees, as they’re usually calculated on a pro-rata or credit equivalence basis.

– Some part-time courses don’t require you to have any prior higher education qualifications.

 – It can give you more time to spread out your studies and get that qualification.

DISADVANTAGES OF STUDYING PART-TIME

– One of the main problems of studying part-time is that it’s harder to immerse yourself in the studies.

– You won’t get the same experience as full-time students and you probably won’t get to know your fellow students in the same way.

– You’ll have reduced access to university staff, and thus you may be more easily distracted from your university work.

– Part-time postgraduate courses take far longer to complete and can add extra pressure on top of your current workload. It can be stressful juggling a career and a postgraduate degree.

– The success rate for part-time students is lower than it is for full-time students. Very few part-time PhD students make it to the finish line and complete their course.

– Part-time students will find it harder to find studentships and scholarships.

A SHORTER ALTERNATIVE

Sometime people simply miss the academic atmosphere of university and the joy of learning. Instead of committing yourself to the cost and time involved with a postgraduate qualification, you might want to look into other more casual ways of learning part-time. For instance, many universities run events for the public.

Most institutions hold open lecture series. These are usually free, open to all and are a great way of maintaining a casual interest in a particular subject area.

If you want something a bit more hands-on, some universities/colleges run ‘day schools’, which devote a day to particular studies. You’ll learn in a group under the supervision of an academic. Prices for the day are usually relatively low and they often take place on a Saturday.

Universities and institutions also offer short courses. These are great ways of testing the water and seeing whether you want to commit to a longer course or qualification. Short courses usually last a few days or a couple of weeks.

 .