The 2020 results for higher education students mark another outstanding achievement for those studying their degrees at the University College. Over the last 5 years the number of ‘top grades’ achieved by UCM graduates has been above the UK average but this year a staggering 87% of all foundation and undergraduate degree students have achieved a first class honours or upper second class honours degree or equivalent.
This year 45% of UCM students achieved a first class degree (in 2019 HESA, the UK’s designated data body for higher educations reported an average of 28% of UK students achieved a first class honours degree).
Jo Pretty, UCM Principal said ‘these results are reflected across all the UCM degree programmes but of particular note are the Bachelor of Nursing students who, all achieved a top grade; a result made all the more remarkable when you consider that they spent some of the final weeks of their studies back on the frontline at Nobles Hospital working during the peak of the coronavirus emergency on the Island’.
The source of these outstanding results is a mix of top class lecturing, small class sizes in comparison to most UK universities, strong learner support services and arguably less stress on finances as UCM students are not required to make the annual £2500 contribution to tuition fee, which is required when studying off island.
Employability is a further strength at UCM. Throughout their studies students are introduced to key employers and business networks on the island, this can give them a competitive advantage when progressing to employment.
UCM has again received an increased number of applications and is expecting at least 180 first year undergraduates to start on their range of higher education courses this year, bringing the total number of higher education students on all year groups to around 500. This is almost double the number of first year higher education students from just five years ago. Applications have been particularly high for BSc Hons Computer Science/Applied Computing, BSc Hons Cybersecurity, BA Hons Business Management, Fd Health & Society and Fd Sport. Also popular this year is a fulltime Master in Business Entrepreneurship, a course specifically designed for new graduates wanting to start their career on Island whilst gaining a masters qualification.
This Thursday sees the publication of ‘A’ level results in what has been a challenging year for the Island’s Year 13 students. UCM is open to provide support and guidance to all ‘A’ level students both those who have already applied to UCM, and those who are still considering their options.
Students currently studying at a UK university are also welcome to contact UCM to discuss their options if they are considering transferring to UCM to complete their studies.
In addition to the many benefits of on island study, the coronavirus pandemic has caused difficulties for off island study. UCM’s ability to offer face to face teaching as well as access to excellent digital recourses have become very important factors when choosing where to study.