Skip to content

Benefits of studying a university-level course with us 

19 July 2024
Take a read of our handy blog before making your final decision about where and what course to study.

We know deciding where and what University-level course to apply for can be quite a minefield. Whilst you may have considered going to University, did you know you could also study University-level courses with us?  

Take a read of some of the benefits to studying with us before making your final decision. 


Lower Tuition Fees 

Our courses are a more affordable option than many Universities. This can especially benefit students who want to minimise their educational expenses. You’ll still receive a high-quality education, tuition from industry experts, and access high-quality facilities and resources, but all for a lower price. 

Smaller Class Sizes 

You’ll experience smaller class sizes, allowing for a more personalised approach from Lecturers. This means you’ll benefit from having more contact with your Lecturer, getting meaningful support in a more supportive and inclusive learning environment. With less students to attend to, Lecturers have the time and resources to support individual students in the ways most beneficial for them. 

Flexible Study Options 

Some of our course offer flexible study options, including part-time timetables, which can accommodate various schedules and lifestyles. This could be particularly helpful for adult learners who may wish to study around family commitments or their current job, like Melynda whose studies fit nicely around her children and their school hours.  

Read Melynda’s story

Our part-time courses mean you may only need to attend College a few hours per week, which won’t encroach on your current lifestyle too much. Independent study can also be completed at a time most convenient for you, so you’ll have more ownership of your schedule and how it is most effective for you. 

Location 

Studying with us may allow you to stay close to home, reducing living expenses and providing a familiar environment. This may be the perfect option for you if you’d rather not have to worry about arranging University accommodation, additional travel costs or living expenses.  

Beginning University-level study can be overwhelming, so if you’re already local to Canterbury and able to continue your studies from the comfort of your current home, this could give you one less thing to worry about. 

Comfortable Environment 

We know some students find moving onto University-level study a daunting prospect, so staying within a familiar environment with tutors you already know may be a comforting way to begin the next chapter of your education.  

If you don’t feel ready to move on to University or another educational provider, completing one of our University-level courses will allow you more time to build the confidence and independence needed to succeed. 

Jack Feury studied the Level 3 Animal Management course at EKC Canterbury College, naturally progressing onto the HND Animal Bio and Wildlife Conservation course when he became an Animal Care Assistant at the College. He says: “I love that I am working towards my future with the opportunities that have been provided to me by the College and that this will continue through Higher Education.” 


Remember, choosing between staying at College and moving onto University depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and desired learning environment. Always weigh up your options and choose what’s best for you.  

If you’re unsure of your options or would like to discuss the routes available to you, our Information, Advice and Guidance team are on hand to provide impartial and confidential careers advice.  

Pop in to see the team any time between 8:45am and 5:00pm or email: iag@eastkent.ac.uk to make an appointment. 

Explore our University-level courses

We’re part of six community-based colleges

Our mission is to play a leading role for East Kent in developing the economic and social prosperity of the diverse communities we serve.