Higher Education
Whichever higher education or professional course you decide to study, you will be equipped with the in-demand skills that employers are looking for.
The college works closely with local employers to ensure that our courses address the skills gaps in the local area. Our brand-new Health & Social Care Academy, for instance, is equipped with industry-standard equipment and will provide our HE healthcare students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel as a healthcare professional.
Why choose Warrington & Vale Royal College for a higher education or professional course?
- Affordable course prices – our full-time fees are £5,995 and part-time fees are £2,997 per year
- Excellent links with employers
- Small class sizes
- One-to-one support and guidance
- Fabulous facilities on campus
- Easily accessible by car and public transport
What our Higher Education Students say about studying here
We receive fabulous feedback from our higher education students!
- 95% would recommend their course to a friend
- 96% agree they felt welcome on their first day in college
- 96% agree the teaching on their course is good
- 96% agree teachers know their subject well
- 95% agree they are developing employability skills
- 95% agree they have received quick feedback on their work
- 94% agree the college listens to their views about the course feedback on their course
- 96% agree that their teachers treat them fairly and with respect.
Higher Education Awards Ceremony
Each year, we honour the achievements of our HE and professional students at our Higher Education Awards Ceremony. Set in the atmospheric St. Elphin's Church in Warrington, the ceremony recognises the determination and commitment of students who have completed HNCs, and HNDs as well as higher level apprenticeships and professional qualifications.
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Higher apprenticeship levels
Higher apprenticeships are offered at levels 4 to 7 for students who have completed at least a level 3 college course (A-Levels, BTEC or NVQ) or a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship.
- Level 4 apprenticeships
These are the equivalent to a HNC, CertHE, Level 4 NVQ, BTEC or first year of university - Level 5 apprenticeships
These are the equivalent to a DipHE, HND, Level 5 NVQ, Level 5 BTEC, foundation degree or second year of university - Level 6 apprenticeships
These are the equivalent to a BA or BSc Degree, Graduate Certificate, Level 6 NVQ or BTEC - Level 7 apprenticeships
These are the equivalent to a MEng, MA, MSc, Level 7 NVQ, PGCE or Postgraduate Certificate
What can I study?
If you are looking for a new job role, you could consider applying for a higher apprenticeship through our dedicated apprenticeship matching service. This service, run by our expert Apprenticeship Team, aims to connect candidates to the most suitable employer vacancy. See our full list of current apprenticeship vacancies.
Alternatively you may be looking for a higher apprenticeship opportunity through your existing employer. Depending on your role within the organisation, you could apply to study on one of our higher apprenticeships in the following areas:
- ILM (Leadership & Management)
- CIPD (Human Resources)
- AAT (Accountancy)
- Construction
- Engineering
How will I study?
As a higher apprentice you will spend the majority of your working week in the workplace, however you will be expected to regularly attend classes at college and will have assessments and assignments to complete which count towards your qualification.
Each qualification works slightly differently, so we will advise you on the times and days you will be expected to attend college when you apply to study for your qualification with us.
What if I don't have a level 3 qualification?
If you don’t currently hold a level 3 qualification, you may still be able study on one of our higher apprenticeships. If you already have relevant industry experience, you could be eligible to begin studies on a level 4 course or potentially study a level 3 with us before progressing onto a higher apprenticeship.
You can enquire about your eligibility via our Learner Services team on 01925 494 400.
Higher Education Finance
All of our HNC/HND programmes are eligible for a Higher Education Loan, which you only start to repay once you are earning over £27,295.
Tuition Fee Loans
Eligible students studying for their first undergraduate course can apply for a tuition fee loan- this will cover the cost of the course.
Maintenance Loans
All full time students can apply for a maintenance loan to help with living and study costs. The amount of support students receive is dependent on the household income.
- Up to £9,488 per year is available for those who live away from home
- Up to £7,987 per year in available for students who live with their parents
All students regardless of their level of household income can receive a basic maintenance loan.
Additional Support
Depending on your circumstances you may be entitled to a:
- Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) – This is a grant to help meet extra course costs which students can face as a result of a disability.
- Childcare Grant to help with childcare costs
- Parents Learning Allowance/Dependents Grant – You may qualify for additional grants if you have children or adult dependents.
Further information on loans and how to apply visit: www.gov.uk/student-finance.
Higher Education Financial Assistance Fund
We have support available for HE students who are in financial hardship and need extra financial support to allow them to remain in higher education.
The financial assistance fund may be able to help you with an unexpected financial crisis as well as intervene if you are considering leaving your higher education studies due to financial hardship. If you require further information, please call 01925 494 501 or email welfare@wvr.ac.uk.
The Higher Education Learning Centre
The Craig Atherton Higher Education Learning Centre is a dedicated area for students on higher education programmes, situated in the college's LRC, and providing both quiet study pods and breakout areas for group study.
The Learning Centre houses a number of PC and Apple Mac computers as well as providing space for students to study using their own digital devices. The space also houses pop up support workshops delivered by the college's welfare & learning support teams on topics such as study skills.
