Creating Outstanding Futures
Higher Education Guide
We are delighted that you are considering your next steps with EDC and joining us on one of our fantastic higher education courses.
We take immense pride in offering a truly personalised higher education experience. You’re not just a number to us; you’re a valued individual, and we’re committed to providing the support you need to succeed. Whether you’re a mature learner returning to education or a highflying Year 13 student; we can help!
Studying for any higher education qualification is a great pathway for your future and doing so at East Durham College offers a real alternative to a traditional university. We offer foundation degrees, a top up degree in animal science, HNCs, Higher Apprenticeships and professional qualifications. Also check out our Access to Higher Education diplomas that are designed to get adults onto a degree programme.
Welcome to East Durham College Creating Outstanding Futures
Throughout your academic journey with us, You will have access to industry-standard facilities, forge strong connections within the professional sphere, thrive in our higher education environments, gain invaluable work experience and benefit from outstanding student support - all designed to empower you in reaching your true potential.
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The opportunities and contacts I have made as a result of this course are invaluable and have really made an impact on my next step.
Luke, Animal Management Foundation Degree
The Hive is an exclusive facility for our Higher Eduction Animal Management students at Houghall.
Choosing where to study your higher education course is a big deal - we understand that. There’s so much to think about when it comes to making your decision but, to help, we’ve put together a few of the many reasons why you should choose East Durham College and highlight why we could be the perfect fit for you.
EDC Teaching Style
At EDC, our teaching approach is different from the traditional university model. Rather than relying heavily on lectures, we prioritise twoway interaction to create a more engaging and enriching student experience.
Our vocationally-focused programmes are designed not only to deliver essential knowledge but also to develop the practical skills you need to launch or advance your career.
Smaller Class Sizes, Greater Individual Support
Thanks to our smaller class sizes, students benefit from more personalised attention and interaction with our industry-experienced lecturers. You’ll also enjoy outstanding support
Why EDC Creating Outstanding Futures
from our dedicated team. At EDC, you can expect significantly more one-on-one time with tutors compared to a typical university environment.
Flexible & Part-Time Study Available
Our Foundation Degrees offer a two year plus one year top-up option, meaning you can study a programme for two years at East Durham College and leave with a level 5 qualification in order to seek employment or top-up your course with an extra year to come out with a full honours degree. The award that you will receive will be from the University of Sunderland.
We also offer a range of part-time courses, meaning you can fit them around your life, getting a degree alongside your other commitments, without one impacting the other.
Live at Home or Move to the CityThe Choice is Yours!
Studying locally can save you significant time, money and effort, making it a convenient way to advance your career. However, if you’d prefer the living away from home experience, you have some fantastic options. Our central location in the North East means you could choose to live in Durham, Sunderland or Newcastle. With excellent transport links, getting to college is a breeze, we even have a free bus service on some routes. For more details on our locations, flick to the back of this guide.
Our Partnerships
At EDC, we offer an exciting selection of higher education course programmes, a number in partnership with the University of Sunderland. Sunderland was recently shortlisted for University of the Year 2024 at the 20th Times Higher Education (THE) Annual Awards - dubbed the “Oscars of higher education”.
In addition to the University of Sunderland, we collaborate with esteemed institutions like Durham University and NCG to enhance our course offerings through best practices. Our employer partners also contribute, providing students with networking events and a diverse range of enrichment activities.
Studying a Degree at College is a Rapidly Emerging Trend
One in eight students in the UK now complete a degree at college. Nowadays, employers are less concerned about where a qualification is gained and focus more on the essential skills and competencies gained.
Our Campus Sites
At East Durham College, we want to make your higher education experience with us as beneficial as possible, which is why we’ve invested into providing the best facilities we can for you. Our campuses boast a host of worldclass facilities and resources which have been developed to support your studies and prepare you for your next steps into employment.
The Peterlee Campus opened in 2009 and has received continual significant investment. It boasts a stunning sports centre, mock hospital and care training ward, unique manufacturing clean lab and engineering suite and workshops.
In addition, our study zones provide a tranquil environment for focused learning, while our vibrant Rachel’s Bistro, The Grove Bistro and Starbucks ensures that your academic journey with us is both productive and enjoyable.
Creating Outstanding Futures
At our Houghall Campus, in Durham, we offer a dedicated HE facility where you can focus and excel academically, along with inviting social spaces that encourage collaboration and networking. Our large animal care unit and working farm ensure you have access to a huge range of species to help develop your knowledge and practical skills.
As an Institute of Technology (IoT), we specialise in providing advanced technical education with a straong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, including engineering, digital technologies and construction.
Our state-of-the-art IoT facilities help equip students with the specific technical skills that employers demand. By collaborating closely with our industry partners, we design and deliver high-quality courses that address the current and future needs of our region’s workforce.
Our Higher Education Courses
Our courses are designed to maximise your development and provide you with the skills you will need to progress onto further study or start your career. We pride ourselves on our commitment to preparing you for employment in your chosen sector or industry by supporting the development of both academic knowledge and vocational skills.
Creating Outstanding Futures
Qualification
Type Campus
HNC
HNC in Operations Engineering (Pearsons)
Peterlee 4/5 Part time (Full cost only) 2 years 1 day/week
Starts Sept & March
Level 3 Diploma in Engineering. GCSE Maths B/5+ (or equivalent).
Relevant Industrial experience subject to interview.
Diploma
Arboriculture Houghall, Durham 4 Part time (Student Loan Available) 1 year 1 day/week
Starts Nov
Level 3 Diploma in Arboriculture or Level 2 with significant industry experience.
Apprenticeships
Engineering
Manufacturing Technician Peterlee 4 Apprenticeship Typically 24 months Starts Sept & March
Healthcare Science
Level 3 Diploma in Engineering. GCSE Maths B/5+ (or equivalent). Relevant Industrial experience subject to interview.
Associate Peterlee 4 Apprenticeship Typically 24 months Varies start dates Employed/Apprentice in Healthcare Science.
Qualification
Type
Apprenticeships (cont.)
Improvement Practitioner
Lead Practitioner in Adult Care
Entry Requirements (see website for full details)
Peterlee 5 Apprenticeship Typically 14-18 months Varies start dates Already be in employment and in team leader/ managerial role.
Peterlee 4 Apprenticeship Typically 18 months
Varies start dates
Employed managing a team of frontline adult carers.
Learning & Skills Teacher
Operations Manager
Peterlee 5 Apprenticeship 18 months on programme and 3 months EPA 1 day/week Starts Sept Already be in employment (min. 30 hrs/ week) and in a significant teaching/ training role (min. 8 hrs/week).
Peterlee 5 Apprenticeship Typically 21 months on programme and 4 months EPA Varies Already be in employment and in a significant management and leadership role.
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Creating Outstanding Futures
Foundation Degrees
Sports Coaching (FdSc) with an additional 1-year top-up option to a BSc Sports Coaching & Physical Education degree studied at the University of Sunderland
Health & Social Care (FdSc)
Counselling (FdA)
Qualification Type
Initial Teacher Training
Certificate in Education
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
BA Hons (Top-ups)
BSc (Hons) Animal Management (Top-up year)
Peterlee 5 Part time 2 years 1 evening/week
Starts Sept
Peterlee 6 Part time 2 years
1 evening/week
Starts Sept
Teaching subject at Level 3 or higher, plus 150 teaching hours over 2 years.
Teaching subject at Degree level (Hons 2.2) or higher, plus 150 teaching hours over 2 years
Houghall, Durham 6 Full time (Student Loan Available) 1 year Top-up 3 days/week
Starts Sept
Important Information
Our Foundation Degrees & BSc Animal Management top-up programmes are offered by East Durham College working in partnership with the University of Sunderland. The award that you will receive will be from the University of Sunderland.
Level 5 qualification in a related subject.
On successful completion of a foundation degree, you have the option to study a one-year top up to BA/BSc Hons degree studying at the University of Sunderland. The BSc Animal Management top-up is studied at Houghall.
Creating Outstanding Futures
All our higher education programmes require GCSE maths and English at grade C or above or a Level 2 equivalent.
For up-to-date course fees, please check our website. You can apply for a Student Loan/Advanced Learner Loan to cover your fees.
Apprenticeships include a Level 4 or 5 qualification as part of the standard, as well as the required workplace mentors, off-the job time allowance, training plan and review participation and end point assessment (EPA). There are no course fees.
Industry-standard manufacturing cleanroom lab facility at the Peterlee Campus.
Student Support
At
East Durham College, we want to make sure education is accessible for everyone and, as a result, offer a range of support services to help you with your studies. Whether you need study or financial support, careers or course advice, or help with your general wellbeing, you can count on receiving the highest levels of support and guidance throughout your time with us to ensure your experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
Academic Study Support
We want you to gain and develop academic study skills, so you get the most out of your studies while you’re at EDC and get the very best grade you can.
Our HE teaching team will help you develop your academic study skills, including essay writing, critical reading and thinking, note-taking, referencing and preparing for exams.
We’re dedicated to encouraging you to become an independent learner, with the skills you need to succeed, but unlike at university you’ll get that extra level of care and support you may need.
Additional Learning Support
We have a specialist team of support workers available to provide dedicated support, subject to assessment and eligibility. We understand that everyone’s needs are unique, so our team will work closely with you to create a personalised plan that will help you make the most of your time at college and empower you to successfully achieve your educational goals and qualifications.
It is important that you contact us as soon as possible if you think you will need additional support, so this can be assessed and reasonable adjustments and one-to-one support are tailored to meet individual needs.
Student Finance
Our financial guidance encompasses a wide array of services aimed at supporting your educational journey. We provide expert assistance with Student Finance applications, access to additional funding and bursaries and a dedicated student hardship fund for times of necessity.
Careers Information, Advice, and Guidance
Our dedicated Careers Advisors can provide you with face-to-face advice, work placement opportunities and resources to help you build your CV and professional networks.
Creating Outstanding Futures
Student Loans/Advanced Learner Loan
The Government’s Student Finance website will take you through the process of applying for Student Loans/Advanced Learner Loans. Don’t worry though, our team of advisors will also be able to give you a helping hand as well.
Whether you’re a full-time or part-time student; whatever your situation, support is available (dependent on income) to help you cover the cost of your tuition fees and achieve your qualification at East Durham College.
Further information on student loans and finance is available from the Student Finance England website: www.gov.uk/student-finance
Our H.E. Community East Durham College is a very special place; everyone comments on how friendly it is. There is a genuine sense of community and that also goes for our higher education student community too. We have an active Student Union and Student Voice, supported by our Enrichment & Wellbeing Coordinator.
You will quickly become part of the EDC H.E. community. This will provide you with plenty of opportunities to engage with your peers across both sites, you’ll be able to access materials via our exclusive H.E. Teams site and take part in a variety of activities during your studies, including:
Free Cookery Lessons – Learn how to cook on a budget.
Fitness & Wellbeing – Join our free gym and fitness classes (Peterlee site).
Glam-up – Get a new look with top tips from our fantastic beauty salon tutors.
Basic DIY Workshops – Gain valuable home improvement skills with our construction tutors.
Managing Money – Attend masterclasses with our knowledgeable business tutors.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Support
As part of our comprehensive support services, we offer a range of mental health resources designed to prioritise your wellbeing. With a strong commitment to your emotional and mental health, you will have access to our in-house Counselling Service, ensuring that you have a safe and confidential space to discuss your thoughts and feelings. Your emotional health is our priority, and we are here to empower you to thrive both academically and personally.
Childcare
We are committed to supporting all our students who are parents. The Positive Steps Nursery run by East Durham College is located at our Peterlee Campus and is open to the children of students aged three months to four years. It’s opening hours are 7.45am - 5:30pm from Monday to Friday.
If you would like to enquire about securing a place your child, please contact Positive Steps on 0191 586 5540.
More than just a course...
FdSc Animal Management students have taken part in a range of voluntary work placements with the like of The Civet Project, Northeast Hydrotherapy and the Natural History Society of Northumbria.
We host a seminar series featuring expert speakers from various sectors of the animal industry. Our programme includes group social trips to York, meals out, movie nights at The Hive, and even a summer campout.
Students also have the opportunity to attend the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) Conference in Edinburgh and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to The Gambia.
FdSc Sports Coaching students get to engage with our sports academies in football, rugby, boxing, basketball and dance. You’ll have the chance to train, play and even assist with coaching.
You’ll gain valuable work experience by coaching local teams and at schools, helping to run sporting events and visiting other university sport science facilities and labs.
Additionally, you can gain extra qualifications, some of which are free or partially funded, such as the Level 2 Gym Instructor Award and First Aid certification.
Creating Outstanding Futures
Change your life with an Access to HE Diploma
Our Level 3 Access to HE programmes are available for adults aged 19 or over.
These one-year courses are specifically designed to help those who would like to go to university but currently don’t have the qualifications they need to apply, such as A Levels.
Our Ascentis & AIM Access to Higher Education diplomas are widely accepted as an entry qualification by universities throughout England, Wales and Scotland, so with one of these under your belt, that dream career you’ve always wanted could be within reach!
So, whether you’re looking to change jobs, return to work, boost your career prospects or simply gain a full honours degree, our Access courses offer a perfect route into higher education. We’ve even had successful Access students progress onto study medicine and dentistry at Newcastle University.
We currently offer the following Access pathways:
& Social Care
Nursing & Midwifery
Paramedic Science
Primary Teaching
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Sports & Physiotherapy
Veterinary Science
Courses are generally two nights a week (6pm-9pm), with an additional daytime option for Nursing & Midwifery. Please check the website for all the latest details.
After enrolling on our Access to HE programme, Natasha King went on to study medicine at Durham University and is now working as a doctor in the North East.
Live at Home or Move to the City - The Choice is Yours!
Newcastle
Discover the Vibrant Heart of the North East!
(21 miles from Peterlee, 20 miles form Houghall)
Newcastle is a bustling city that offers an exciting blend of rich history and modern amenities. As a student, you’ll enjoy some fantastic nightlife from trendy bars to lively clubs, Newcastle’s nightlife is second to none. It’s also a cultural hotspots with museums, galleries and theatres that showcase the city’s heritage and contemporary arts.
Sunderland
Experience Coastal Charm
(12 miles from Peterlee, 14 miles form Houghall)
Sunderland is a city that combines beautiful coastal scenery with top-notch city life too. Enjoy the stunning beaches and the friendly vibe.
Durham
Immerse Yourself in History
(12 miles from Peterlee, 1 mile form Houghall)
Durham is renowned for its historic charm.
Live in the shadow of Durham Cathedral and Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and enjoy the picturesque River Wear and the stunning countryside surrounding the city.
All three cities offer affordable housing, excellent public transport links to Peterlee and Houghall, and you’ll enjoy lower living costs compared to other major cities, making student life more manageable.