Frequently Asked Questions

Lifelong learning is the ongoing, self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional development. It is basically the idea that you never stop learning. It means that education and learning aren't limited to formal schooling or a specific time in life but extend throughout an individual's life. 

Here at Aberystwyth University’s Lifelong Learning department, we have a range of courses suitable for both personal and professional development. Browse our courses today. 

All accredited qualifications are awarded a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level, endorsed by the Qualifications, Curriculum and Assessment Authority for Wales.

Lifelong Learning courses are called ‘Level 1’ courses because they are equivalent to level 1 of a three-year degree.

You gain credits for each module you complete at a University – because our courses are a part of Aberystwyth University, they all have credits attached.

Adult learners might not be too bothered about the credits associated with a course they wish to undertake, however some of our modules are also great degree boosters for those at University.

You can also combine your credits to gain a Certificate or Diploma in Higher Education in certain subjects: Field Ecology; Creative Writing; Natural History Studies; Art and Design; Genealogical Studies. 

First of all, browse our courses to find one suitable for you. Our courses generally start every September/October, January and April. Once you have found a course, you can purchase your place via our online shop.

In general, a course will run for about 10 weeks – 12 weeks, however please make sure you check the start and end date of the course when browsing to ensure you can attend.

Our courses are delivered in 3 different formats, which will be noted on the course information when you are browsing. Please make sure the course delivery suits you.

Self-paced online learning: delivered through Blackboard,our online teaching platform. The courses are generally pre-recorded, and you can work through each unit in your own time. Your tutor will be on hand to guide and support you through the module.

Face-to-face learning at various venues across Wales.

Blended learning: a mix of the two, where you study a number of self-paced, online units before attending 1 or 2 days in-person teaching at a venue in Wales.

Whichever way you choose to study with us, we will make sure that you receive plenty of support and guidance so you can make the most of your learning experience. All our modules are university accredited and our tutors have extensive experience of delivering adult education.

Many of our courses run every year. The start of ‘term’ begins in September/October, January and April.

Anyone! Our courses are open to adults of all ages, as well as students at any University who may also find our degree boosters useful.

Absolutely not! Our courses are open to everyone.

If you are a student or staff member at Aberystwyth University, the courses are free of charge.

You may also be eligible for a Fee Waiver – read more about this here.

A Certificate of Higher Education (CHE) is a part time programme of short modules, totalling 120 credits, which leads to a University undergraduate qualification. Timescales for completion of the CHEs are between 2 and 5 years, so there is plenty of time to work your way through the appropriate courses for your study area.

You can read more about the CHE here.

A Diploma in Higher Education (DHE) is a part time programme of short modules, totalling 240 credits, which leads to a University undergraduate qualification. A Diploma follows on from the completion of a Certificate of Higher Education, with a further 120 credits taken to reach the total of 240. Timescales for completion of the DHEs are between 2 and 5 years.

You can read more about the Diploma here.

Curiosity, good humour and self motivation are all that is required. We'll advise you to come and meet one of our tutors who can help you choose a suitable course for your strengths and needs. You can also take courses on a stand-alone basis. You can try it out to see if you like the style of teaching. Go on, give it a go!

Course fees will only be refunded if a course has been cancelled or withdrawn by Lifelong Learning. 

Before a course has started

In the event that an individual has given at least 7 days’ notice of withdrawal prior to commencement of a course, a credit may be offered for use against another course held by Lifelong Learning.  This will be at the discretion of Lifelong Learning.  Anyone withdrawing from a course without giving the required 7 day notice will not receive a credit or refund.

You can email us on learning@aber.ac.uk, or give our office a call on 01970 621 580.