Studying at a Federation college

Whether you're new to Higher Education, coming back to study or wanting to retrain, studying a UWE course at your local college can provide the flexibility you need to fit study around your life.

There are many benefits to studying locally with one of our partner colleges such as:

Tailored courses

Most of our programmes have been developed in partnership with major local employers including the NHS and Airbus. This ensures that you gain a set of skills and knowledge relevant to your chosen area of employment.

Learning environment

Teaching takes place in a friendly and informal college environment where the focus is on helping you to succeed. Courses are mostly delivered in small groups, ensuring that you get the support and help that you need.

Resources and support

Your college will provide the teaching and support for your chosen programme including access to library services, information technology and a full range of student services ranging from careers advice to support for additional learning needs.

As a UWE student, you will also be able to use the UWE library, which includes access to study facilities and an extensive range of online resources such as electronic journals and databases.

Amongst UWE’s partners are colleges that can provide you with specialist facilities for land-based programmes, engineering and creative practices.

The student community

You will be part of a large and growing community of students who have chosen to study a UWE programme at one of our partner colleges. This means that you will be both a UWE student and a student of the college where you study.

We have developed a wide range of programmes that you can study with our partner colleges. Awards available through the UWE Federation include Foundation degrees and postgraduate qualifications.

Search for Federation courses online to find a course that suits you.

For full-time undergraduate programmes, you can apply online through UCAS.

For part-time programmes you can complete a UWE application form available from your chosen UWE Federation College. Alternatively, e-mail UWE Admissions to request an application form, detailing which programme you are interested in applying for.

Applying through clearing

From 30 June to 21 September, full time applications for UWE Federation awards must be made through clearing and full details can be found on the UWE clearing pages.

See our Undergraduate Study Guide for further information.

General support

Staff at your college should be your first point of contact and will normally be able to provide you with the advice, guidance and support that you need. You can also get information and advice from the UWE department linked to your programme of study.

Financial support

You will be eligible to apply for a wide range of financial support available to other UWE students including, if you chose to study full time, the UWE bursary.

Further help

The Aimhigher programme provides a range of information you need to get started on the road into Higher Education, including links to all the key places where you can find answers to your questions.

Successful completion of a UWE Federation award will provide you with the opportunity to progress to an identified programme at UWE or another university (subject to availability of places and relevant checks, such as criminal record checks for teaching programmes).

Alternatively, you may decide that you would like to apply your newly acquired skills and knowledge in the working world. Your college careers service and UWE Careers can offer useful help and advice.