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 range of courses.

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

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

Our Certificates of Higher Education are Level 4 NQF and our Diploma of Higher Education in Ecology is a Level 5 NQF.

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 10 credit 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 three different formats, which will be noted on the course information.  

Online learning: delivered through Blackboard, our online teaching platform. The units 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: delivered in-person at at various venues.

Blended learning: a combination of online and in-person delivery. You will study a number of 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 ensure that you receive plenty of support and guidance so you can make the most of your learning experience. All of our courses are accredited by Aberystwyth University and our tutors have extensive experience of delivering adult education.

Most of our courses run every year but not all courses will be available each term. 

Terms usually start 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 our Fee Waiver Scheme.

A Certificate of Higher Education (CHE) is a part time programme of short courses, 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.