As part of its Widening Access strategy, St Mary’s University College hosted an Information Evening for Mature Students on the 15th November. Mature students from a number of Regional College’s came to find out more about undergraduate courses, entry requirements and indeed all aspects of life at St Mary’s.


“Friendly and warm welcome. Staff and current students made the experience not as daunting as I expected and were willing to answer any questions.”

The evening was hosted by the Widening Access Coordinator and some of our current mature students, beginning with refreshments and sandwiches in the College staffroom.

Mature students pursuing alternative qualifications such as the Access to Higher Education course need clear and accurate information on the different undergraduate options and the various entry requirements. Therefore, there was a talk on the Primary and Post-Primary BEd Honours degree programmes and on the BA Honours Liberal Arts degree. Trevor Abbott, the College’s Academic Registrar, also spoke about entry requirements, application procedure, interview and finance.


Two current mature students, (Gavan Duffy BEd Primary Science, and Imelda Ward BA Liberal Arts) shared their stories regarding their pathway into higher education, the challenges they faced, and the help and support they received. They also reflected on their experience of College life as a mature student and the joys of achieving their dream.

“I spent over 12 years in the civil service in various different departments. I did an Access to higher education course in Maths and Computing and I am currently final year of the BEd programme. Academically I have found no difference in expectations or work to be produced, but a good deal of acceptance of the life experiences of mature students.”                                                       
                                                                                                               Gavan Duffy, BEd 4, Primary Mathematics.

This was followed by an open question and answer session. The evening concluded with a tour of the campus facilities. This included a visit to the Library, the Writing Centre, the Careers Guidance Centre, the Open Access Suite and other ICT facilities, the College Chapel, the Performance Enhancement Centre/Sports Hall and of course the Students’ Union and the Student Centre.

“I can’t wait to apply here. Students and staff are amazing. I can see myself really enjoying my studies here.”

For more information please contact:

Trevor Abbott (Academic Registry)

Susan Morgan (Widening Access & Participation)