HE in FE 

Some facts & figures

In 2007-08, 107,850 undergraduates studied on higher education courses at FECs, of which 47% were studying part time.

Among full time undergraduates –

• 32% were studying for a first degree

• 44% for a foundation degree

• 22% for an HNC/HND

• 2% for other qualifications

For the equivalent part time cohort, these figures were –

• 9% were studying for a first degree

• 27% for a foundation degree

• 35% for an HNC/HND

• 29% for other qualifications

More recent figures supplied by the Association of Colleges (AoC analysis of aggregated HESA student record & The Data Service Individualised Learner Record data 2009/10, and UCAS data) indicate quite clearly the niche market that HE in FE supports at undergraduate level –

• 46% are part time

• 64% are aged 21 and over

• 46% are aged 25 and over

• Over half of HE in FE applicants only apply to a single choice of institution

• Over 70% of those accepted on HE in FE programmes live within 25 miles of their chosen College

Significant volumes of FDs, HNC/Ds occur at FECs and this, together with the amount of part time study at FECs means that about 10% of the total undergraduate entrant population registered at institutions in England are being taught at FECs, which is quite a high figure. (Source: Diverse provision in higher education: options and challenges. Report to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, July 2010)