GTA degree option could be answer to reducing university costs

Tuesday 20 July 2010

According to the Association of Investment Companies (AIC) 82% of parents say the recession has increased the financial strain of university costs, in an annual survey published last week.

With Guernsey students and parents also feeling the pinch of studying costs, local training provider the GTA University Centre is reminding people that there is now an on-island alternative to obtaining an undergraduate degree.

While GTA chief executive Professor Richard Conder would always encourage people to study full-time at university if they possibly can, he said the opportunities which are now available to study locally should not be overlooked.

‘If you get the chance to go to university and are in a position to take advantage of such an opportunity, we at the GTA say grab it with both hands. However it is understandable that in the current economic climate this is not a viable option for everyone,’ said Professor Conder.

‘What the on-island degree course offers is an option for those who are unable to, or choose not to travel to university. For the first time they will have the chance to study for a range of business related degrees at significantly reduced costs, while working and building a career in Guernsey.’

The first Foundation Degree course which begins this autumn will be in Business and Management and will be delivered in partnership with Bournemouth University. The development of the Foundation Degree programme has been sponsored by STEP (The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners – Guernsey Branch).

The Foundation Degree is offered in a part-time format over three years, with the option of then progressing to an honours degree either in Guernsey or transferring to the final year of the full-time programme in Bournemouth. It is envisaged that many students on this course will be supported by their employers and will study for the award alongside their employment.