| Who are partnership degrees for? |
These courses are for anyone seeking a degree with accessible entry requirements, small class sizes in years 1 and 2, flexible exit routes, practical experiences, and employment-focused subjects. While many students are 18-25, older students join to advance careers or pursue interests. Most students come from Scotland, with some from England, the EU, and beyond. |
| Why are entry requirements lower compared to some other degrees? |
This is to reflect a key aim of helping to make degree-level study as accessible as possible to lots of people, from school leavers to adults looking to return to education, or career-changers. The level of study is as challenging as any other course – come prepared for degree level study. |
| Why should I do a partnership degree? |
Many students benefit from completing a 2-year HND before transferring to university in year 3. Studying in a smaller college setting with supportive lecturers helps build confidence and practical skills. Some students choose to exit after year 1 or 2 with an HNC or HND, qualifications recognised by employers. This offers flexibility and a solid foundation for future growth. |
| Why are other courses not partnership degrees? |
Our partnership degrees are offered in subject areas that are aligned to the job market – there is demand from Scotland-based employers for work-ready graduates in these subject areas. |
| What will my timetable be like? |
In years 1 and 2, students typically have 16+ hours of classes per week, including lectures and practical activities, usually spread over three days. This allows time for self-study, assessments, work, and other commitments. In years 3 and 4, university timetables vary—some subjects have fewer contact hours, others more. Self-study time increases, and module choices affect schedules. University timetables include tutorials, practicals, seminars, and lectures. |
| Will I get a student card, and from where? |
Once you complete enrolment with Forth Valley College and the University, you’ll get student cards from both institutions (can’t be used to double any student discounts in shops, online etc.!). Cards are especially important in situations where you need one to access a facility on campus. |
| How do I complete enrolment? |
You’ll need to enrol with the college and the university. Both enrolment processes are online; you’ll receive emails informing you about enrolment so you can complete as soon as possible. |
| How do students gain work experience during their studies? |
Please visit the course webpage for information about course content, including any Work Placement arrangements and when they take place. |
| How should I plan my travel to the College campus? |
You can use, for example, Google Maps to help plan your travel to and from campus. Falkirk campus Stirling campus Under 22s are entitled to free bus travel in Scotland, please click here to visit the website. Visit the Scotrail website for timetables, ticket prices, and railcards. Car parking is available at all College campuses, and you can register for an on-campus student parking permit. |
| How do I fund my studies? |
Visit our student funding section of the website which goes into detail regarding higher education study. |
| I have Additional Support Needs which may affect my learning, attendance, moving around the campus. Who can I discuss my requirements with? |
Please disclose any Additional Support Needs as soon as possible so that the College’s team can carry out a Needs Assessment with you and put in place a Personal Learning Support Plan. Visit our learning support page for more information. |