Upskilling short courses (undergraduate level)
January 2024 or September 2024 entry
Upskilling courses at the University of St Andrews are suitable for individuals who wish to study on a short-term or modular basis. Delivered in the evenings, they are perfect for individuals who want to develop their skills and knowledge in a flexible study environment.
These courses provide opportunities for career enhancement and skills development in light of the current climate and skills gap in Scotland. Scottish applicants may be eligible for fully-funded tuition scholarships through the Scottish Funding Council.
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Course type
Short course at undergraduate level, leading to a St Andrews Certificate of Completion (module with credit)
Course duration
Each upskilling course lasts one semester (12 weeks)
There are two different entry points available for upskilling courses, September and January.
- January 2024 - application deadline of 15 December 2023
- September 2024 - application deadline of 31 July 2024
Entry requirements
We would normally expect you to have a basic level of education at school level, which should include English and mathematics. This will be discussed at interview and does not have to be evidenced through formal qualifications.
We will consider work experience, professional qualifications and other forms of evidence of ability to study instead of a recent formal qualification.
How to apply
Applications for January 2024 are open. To apply, click the ‘Apply now’ button at the top of this page. This will direct you to our applicant portal.
For questions about applying and to register your interest please contact lifelonglearning@st-andrews.ac.uk.
Course information
Undergraduate upskilling courses at the University of St Andrews allow you to study on a short-term basis in the evening without committing to a degree. Upskilling courses run in a hybrid format, which means that students have the option to either join online or in-person.
Applicants can choose from 20 or 30 credit modules in a variety of subjects. Not only will you finish your studies with a certificate of completion and a wealth of knowledge on the topics you have studied, but you will also develop and improve a variety of transferable skills:
- verbal and written communication
- team working
- organisational and time management skills
- research, interpretation, and analytical skills
- computer literacy
- interpersonal skills
- dedication and personal motivation
- listening skills
- presentation skills
- critical thinking and evaluation
- confidence.
Subjects
Applicants can apply to study modules in a variety of subjects which suit their interests. The following subjects can be studied as an upskilling course. Not all subjects are offered every year.
- Computer Science or Information Technology
- English
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Social Anthropology
Modules
Please note that all dates given are provisional
Details to be confirmed in summer 2024, but in previous years the following modules have been offered:
Teaching
Teaching format
Each module runs over a 12-week semester, with one class per week, delivered in the evenings between 6.30pm and 9.30pm. As an upskilling student, you will join our MA Combined Studies degree classes.
Teaching in each module varies slightly depending on the content, but most take the form of a combined lecture and tutorial. Modules in science subjects may also include lab work.
Most classes involve a combination of group work and discussion, but also involve individual study outside of the class times to prepare for future classes and enhance your subject knowledge.
You will be taught by an experienced teaching team with expertise and knowledge in their subject.
The University’s Student Services team can help students with additional needs resulting from disabilities, long term medical conditions or learning disabilities. More information can be found on the students with disabilities web page.
Assessment
Almost all of the modules are assessed by a balanced combination of coursework and class tests.
The exact breakdown of the assessment method will vary between subjects and modules.
Fees
Tuition fees for January 2024 entry
Fully funded for Scottish applicants - there is funding support for Scottish applicants through the Upskilling fund. Please see the funding section for further details.
£2,000 for other applicants.
Funding
Scottish Funding Council-backed University of St Andrews upskilling scholarships are available to candidates who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Resident in Scotland and (one of the following must apply)
- be a UK citizen
- EU citizens: have a settled or pre-settled status
- Other citizens: have a residency permit which entitles the applicant to a Home fee status
- Over 25 years of age
- Not a University of St Andrews student or staff member.
There are scholarships available, which will be allocated by application date and subject to availability. Early application is advised.
Study support
At the University of St Andrews we understand that some new students may have had a significant break from studies before beginning an upskilling course. To help you feel confident in studying at university level, we offer pre-sessional Study Skills workshops designed specifically for part-time students that run prior to the beginning of each semester.
These workshops will help you prepare for studying by making sure you have the skills you need to make the most of your studies. They are also a great way to meet fellow students on your modules.
Over the course of the Study Skills workshops, you will have the opportunity to develop skills such as:
- Making quality notes
- Using the library
- Citing and referencing
- Essay writing
- Using feedback
Student life
As fully matriculated student at the University of St Andrews, you are very welcome to take part in all aspects of student life. The University of St Andrews offers an array of events and opportunities which result in a truly unique student experience. These events, and the choice of over 150 sports clubs and student societies to choose from, ensure a community feel amongst students from first year onwards.
The Lifelong Learning team also aims to hold social events at the end of each semester for part-time students, including a Christmas Party and Graduation Reception.
The town of St Andrews itself has lots to offer. As University buildings are located throughout the town, walking around you encounter ancient and modern buildings, parks and beaches, providing a rich, beautiful backdrop to learning. Find out more about the town of St Andrews.
Find out more about student life at the University of St Andrews.
Contact
Admissions
University of St Andrews
16 The Scores
St Andrews
KY16 9AX
Policies
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our admissions policy.
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.