Changes in fees and modules for part time students
The significant cuts to university funding which have resulted in the increases in full time tuition fees have also had a similar impact on our part time funding, and we've therefore reluctantly had to increase our part time tuition fees across all programmes as a consequence. This is so that we can continue to run these programmes.
However, for the first time, tuition fee loans will be available to all part time undergraduate students so long as they take between 25% and 75% of a full time course. We're still waiting for Government confirmation of how students will apply for these loans and we are told that information will be published on www.direct.gov.uk.
So, although the cost of part time courses is rising, you'll be able to get support to help you pay for them which has never been available before.
Changes in our modules
At Derby, we've completely revised our programmes so that now each module will contain 20 credits instead of the previous 15. We believe that this will allow you to study each area in greater depth so give you a better overall knowledge of your chosen subject.
The module size and content has increased by a third for each module, and this now means that, in order to get the required 120 credits per stage of study, you only need to do six modules, rather than eight as previously.
Fair fees for quality degrees
So at Derby we're now offering larger modules and having to reflect the changes in Government funding. This means the fee has gone up significantly but you're actually getting more credits for your money. And we've approached part time fees in the same way we've set full time fees - with a focus on fairness. We've not set fees at the maximum levels allowed but have kept them in line with the cost of delivering the courses. In the new fees regime that has been set for us, we feel that this is the fairest approach for you.
If you would like any more information about these changes, please contact Student Records and Fees at studentrecordsandfees@derby.ac.uk.
