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College Students’ Guide 2016 entry
College Students’ Guide2016 entry
ContentsWelcome 1College Connect Academy 2Make the next step 6Choose GCU 8How to apply 10Fees and funding 11Your studies 12Student support 14Map and travel 16Get in touch 18
Visit usUndergraduate Open DaysWednesday 2 September 2015Saturday 3 October 2015
College Student EventWednesday 21 October 2015Check www.gcu.ac.uk/opendays for the schedule a few weeks before.
This guide is a supplement to the 2016 Undergraduate prospectus and it is intended to be used alongside it. You can request a printed prospectus or view online at www.gcu.ac.uk. For full details about: programme content, detailed entry requirements, programme and module content, information about programme specific accreditation, assessment, placements, exchanges and study abroad and much more please visit www.gcu.ac.uk/study.
Whilst the information presented in the following pages is correct at the time of publication, prospective applicants should access our website www.gcu.ac.uk and in particular
www.gcu.ac.uk/study for the most up-to-date information before applying.
The Student Terms and Conditions can be found on the University website at: www.gcu.ac.uk/student/regulations.
If you require further information, or you can’t find what you’re looking for online, please contact College Connect for help.
E: [email protected]: +44 (0)141 273 1954www.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnect
Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 0BA,Scotland, United Kingdom
T: +44(0) 141 331 3000E: [email protected]
www.gcu.ac.uk
© Glasgow Caledonian University 2015. Published February 2015Glasgow Caledonian University is a registered Scottish charity, number SC021474
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Glasgow Caledonian University is a vibrant multi-cultural modern university in the centre of Glasgow. Our welcoming community of over 17,000 students from more than 100 countries and our award-winning support services help to ensure that students really enjoy their time here. We’re delighted that you’re considering making the next step from college to university, and you’ll find that our College Connect Academy is here to encourage and support you all the way.
Welcome to GCU
We know the move from college to university, or coming back to study after a gap, can sometimes feel a little overwhelming, so our College Connect Academy offers a range of support and services tailored to you. This guide will give you an overview of College Connect, the exciting experience awaiting you at GCU and a Programme Directory of all of our degree programmes offering direct entry to college students.
This guide is for you if you’re currently studying or have studied at college level: HNC, HND or if you’re undertaking an Access course. You can find more information about College Connect on our website: www.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnect.
Many of our programmes offer direct entry, sometimes called advanced entry, to Year 2 (HNC or equivalent) and Year 3 (HND or equivalent). You can find details of our entry requirements at www.gcu.ac.uk, as well as information about GCU, and to use Pathfinder, which will match your current college course with suitable undergraduate programmes www.gcu.ac.uk/pathfinder. These provide an
indication of typical academic requirements, however each application is considered on an individual basis.
You may also find further details about our programmes and GCU in our Undergraduate Prospectus – you can view or download it at www.gcu.ac.uk, you can request a hard copy to be sent by post by emailing [email protected] or you can call 0141 331 8681.
We’re here to help, so if you need more information, or you can’t find what you’re looking for online, please contact College Connect.
E: [email protected]: +44 (0)141 273 1954www.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnect
Welcome to GCU and College Connect Academy
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GCU is committed to supporting you to continue your studies to degree-level and the College Connect Academy is here to help support your decision-making and transition to GCU.
College Connect will provide you with information about which degree courses you can access from your current course of study and life at GCU, as well as the opportunity to meet with current GCU students. In addition, by participating in the College Connect Academy you will take part in a varied and exciting programme of activities designed to help you connect with GCU including:
• UCAS and transition support workshops• Get Connected days• Academic and industry masterclasses• Online learning resources• Student social activities• College and HN induction events• Mentoring support• And much more
Our College Connect Academy is here to connect you to GCU and support you in taking the next step from college to university.
College Connect Academy
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College Connect Academy
Upon receiving an offer of a place at GCU you can become a member of College Connect and receive a GCU Student ID Card which will allow you to:
• Visit and borrow materials from our library• Access our Virtual Learning Environment,
GCU Learn• Access all our support services• Join the ARC Gym and our Students’
Association
We have a large number of students who have made the move to GCU from college and we look forward to connecting you to the GCU
community as you take the next step on your path to a brighter future.
College Connectwww.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnectT: +44 (0) 141 273 1954E: [email protected]
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Student and graduate profiles
Laura Monaghan BSc (Hons) Graduate, Biomedical ScienceI chose GCU following my two years at college, with a key factor being the accreditation that my course held - with the Institute of Biomedical Scientists, giving me the opportunity to follow a range of career paths following graduation.
Prior to starting GCU I attended a week long transition course, run by the School of Health and Life Sciences. It included an overview of the department, insight into all the required skills and a practical lab class with feedback. As well as meeting lecturers and staff, it allowed me to interact with other new students and familiarise myself with university life.
I enjoyed the whole experience of being a GCU student - the vibrant atmosphere of the campus, along with all of the resources I needed and all aspects of my course.
I graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Biomedical Science and currently work as a Research Technician at the Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre. I aim to complete a PhD in the future.
Katie Stewart BA (Hons) Graduate, ManagementComing to GCU was one of the best decisions I ever made. My HND led straight into a specially designed two year degree, and the fit was perfect. The support from both academic and learning development staff was first rate and I graduated with a First Class Honours to prove it! The friendships I made at GCU will last me a lifetime and the relationships I built up with staff have opened doors for me I never imagined. I now work in the university, supporting college students as they make the choice to progress to university. It feels great to be working alongside the staff that made my GCU journey such an enjoyable experience, as well as helping the next generation of GCU students to feel at home. My transition was made easy by the support I received at the time, but seeing what’s offered to college students now, I can’t help but feel jealous! If I could do it all over again, I’d choose GCU every time.
College Connect students and graduates
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Jasmine Chiswell BA (Hons) Student, Media & Communication When applying to go to GCU I was very anxious that the change between college and university would be huge especially becoming a direct entry into 3rd year of the course. I was also anxious that no one else from my college course would be there and the thought of not knowing anyone really worried me. But now looking back there was no need to be anxious as I quickly made friends and found that there was no need to be scared or worried at all, as everyone was lovely and university life actually is great, believe it or not!
David Clarke BSc (Hons) Student, Social WorkWhen I applied to GCU I was semi-retired, having sold my business, and working as a foster carer. GCU became my first choice as it was clear that they offered a dynamic, modern and rounded learning experience, with all the support needed to meet my personal goals. Articulating into Year 2 of my course was very straightforward, with guidance from my admissions tutor and an induction event where I met others who were also articulating – they are now firm friends and a great support. My programme is comprehensive and well planned and my learning experience at GCU has revitalised me – I hope to enter a PhD programme here. If anyone is choosing a university, I’d advise them to look at all the available establishments and then go home and pick GCU!
Yasmin Ali BA (Hons) Student, ManagementBeing a college student entering university directly into third year, I found the College Connect days as well as the initial induction week incredibly helpful and would highly recommend them. There is a lot of help available at GCU and I actually find myself better supported than I was at college. GCU has an incredibly positive, happy vibe and I am very pleased I chose to come here.
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Make the next step
application via UCAS (UCAS Apply) – see page 6 for more information about applying.
There’s also more information from page 12 onwards about life at GCU, student support, studying, fees and funding, accommodation, our campus and visiting us.
Make the next stepThe following pages list all of our undergraduate degree programmes offering direct entry to college students and typical entry requirements. You’ll find full up-to-date details about our programmes and information about GCU on our website: www.gcu.ac.uk/undergraduate.
You can use our online Pathfinder tool to match your current course of study with suitable GCU undergraduate programmes: www.gcu.ac.uk/pathfinder.
Once you’ve identified which programmes accept your qualifications, you can make your
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College Connect Academy Online – www.gcu.ac.uk
Pathfinder
Become a College Connect member
Student Support
Studying HN qualifications, BTEC or A levels
Apply to GCU via UCAS for Year 2 or Year 3 Direct Entry
Transition programme
Start your programme at GCU
Induction events and New2GCU
Completion of programme
Graduation
College
Support continues throughout your time at GCU
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Information, support and advice. Choose suitable programme(s)
Your route from college to GCU
Choose GCU
• 95% employment rate*• The best modern university in Scotland for
research power• Joint 2nd in Scotland for graduate employment• A leading institution for recruitment and retention
of Scottish entrants from widening access backgrounds
• 1st Scottish university to open campuses in London and New York
• 1st in Scotland for international student support• 1st in Scotland for accommodation costs• 1st in Scotland for transport links• World class facilities• Glasgow is the world’s friendliest city
Sources: Rough Guides 2014, REF 2014, ISB Summer 2014, DLHE 2014*95% of graduates in employment or further study within six months (DLHE 2014)
Choose GCU Glasgow Caledonian University: a unique combination of academic excellence, state-of-the-art learning facilities and one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. We are the first choice for students from over 100 countries, and rank highly in national and international student surveys for the quality of our teaching, facilities and support.
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Why take the next step? Increase your employabilityBy building on your existing qualifications and gaining a university degree you are more attractive to employers. Graduates also enjoy increased earning potential and better career prospects.
Develop yourself University gives you the time and opportunity to develop new interests, learn new skills and meet new people. If it’s your first time away from home you’ll become more independent and self-reliant.
A world of opportunity Many students will be able to undertake a work placement in their chosen subject area, gain industry experience and meet future employers. At GCU many programmes also offer opportunities to study and work abroad.
The following pages provide an overview about applying to GCU, fees, finance, accommodation, support and more. You can find more details in our Undergraduate Prospectus and on our website www.gcu.ac.uk
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How to apply for direct (Year 2 and Year 3) entryIf your qualifications are accepted for Year 2 or Year 3 entry of your chosen programme, you can apply for direct entry on your UCAS application. In the ‘choices’ section there is an option to indicate ‘point of entry’. If you’re applying to join Year 2 of a programme, put 2 in the box, for Year 3, put 3 in the box (when applying to Year 1 this box should be left blank).
Once you’ve made your application it will be assessed by our Admissions staff and you’ll receive a decision via UCAS Track. The result will be one of the following three decisions: unconditional offer, conditional offer or unsuccessful. You’ll find full details about the application process on our website www.gcu.ac.uk/applicationprocess and the UCAS website www.ucas.com.
How to apply to study part-timeIf we offer a part-time study option for your preferred programme, you should apply to GCU directly. For more information visit www.gcu.ac.uk/study/part-timestudy.
How to applyOur College Connect Academy offers tailored advice and support for college students applying to GCU. Find out more online at www.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnect.
Most applications to undergraduate programmes are made via UCAS www.ucas.com.
The UCAS application deadline is 15th January of the year in which you intend to join, e.g. 15th January 2016 for entry in September 2016. Late applications may be accepted, but we strongly advise that you submit your application on time.
GCU’s UCAS code is G42 and you’ll also need the programme course code, listed in the Programme Directory in this guide, in our undergraduate prospectus and on our website.
Full details about applying can be found on our website: www.gcu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/howtoapply.
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How to apply
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Fees and Funding
Fees and Funding For more information about Finance and Funding, including tuition fees and more, please visit www.gcu.ac.uk/student/money.
Find out more:Scottish and EU students0300 555 0505www.saas.gov.uk
English students0845 300 5090www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance
Northern Irish students0845 600 0662www.studentfinanceni.co.uk
Welsh students0845 602 8845www.studentfinancewales.co.uk
Students from outside the EUContact the British Council in your home countrywww.britishcouncil.org
You can also contact the GCU Student Funding team on +44 (0) 141 273 1376, [email protected]
Applications for funding usually open around March/April. Your application will cover your tuition fees, student loan and any other grants, bursaries or supplementary allowances. The funding available depends firstly on where you lived before coming to university.
Tuition feesScottish and EU students living in Scotland normally have all tuition fees paid directly to GCU by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS). Contact SAAS or visit www.saas.gov.uk for more information. If you’re from England, Wales, Northern Ireland or outside the EU, you can find out more from the funding body in the area you live.
accompanying materials and more online content to help with your studies. You can access it 24/7 from any device with an internet connection.
You’ll find excellent student IT facilities at GCU. Our IT Helpdesk is available every day for support. There are 350 computers in the library, over 100 university notebooks available to everyone and plenty of computer labs across the campus. You can also use your own laptop, smartphone or tablet on campus via the Eduroam wireless network.
When you become a College Connect member you will be able to access all the above resources while you are still at college. This will help your with you college course and enable you to get a head start with your degree programme.
Your studiesLike many colleges, GCU has lots of support available tohelp students to develop their skills and complete coursework andassessments. Added to our award-winning facilities, you’ll find that GCU has everything you need to succeed at university.
The Saltire Centre is our state-of-the-art home of the GCU library, with superb resources and over 1200 study spaces. Specialist subject librarians can help you make the most of the services and support available. www.gcu.ac.uk/library
Each of GCU’s three Schools has a dedicated Learning Development Centre (LDC) with highly experienced Academic Development Tutors and Learning Technologists. Students can request help with any aspect of their studies and get assistance with IT skills. LDC teams also run workshops where all students can get extra help with mathematics, academic writing and study skills. www.gcu.ac.uk/learningdevelopmentcentres
GCULearn is our virtual learning environment, enabling you to access lecture notes,
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Your studies
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Campus life
Campus life You will find a friendly and diverse community of students enjoying the superb range of student support services and learning resources at GCU. GCU offers an accessible and approachable place to learn, with everything in one city centre campus, recognised with a Whatuni Student Choice Award 2014, rated Top 10 for university facilities.
The Faith and Belief Centre welcomes students and staff from all backgrounds, religions and beliefs. There’s space for prayers, quiet reflection and events and washing and kitchen facilities. GCU also has a team of multi-faith Chaplains. Find out more: www.gcu.ac.uk/student/faith.
You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink in our refectory and cafés as well as the Students’ Association bistro. John Smith’s Bookshop on campus stocks text books, academic supplies, stationery and more.
The Students’ Association has its own dedicated building with a student bistro, 24 hour social learning space, advice centre and 24 hour computer lab. There’s over 55 student-run societies and around 35 sports clubs, as well as plenty of organised events and social gatherings. Visit www.gcustudents.co.uk to find out more.
The Arc is our Health and Wellbeing Centre, with two sports halls, three gyms, a games area, a huge range of organised classes and very convenient opening hours. GCU student rates start from £17/month; for opening hours, current prices and further information please visit www.gcu.ac.uk/arc.
Caledonian Court is GCU’s purpose-built student accommodation, right alongside the GCU campus. 100 self-contained flats in modern spacious blocks provide comfortable living for 660 students, along with social spaces, 24 hour security and the Accommodation Office. The Accommodation Office can also offer assistance to students looking for private accommodation to rent during their time at GCU. Find out more: www.gcu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/accommodation.
• Consulting rooms for pre-booked one-to-one appointments
• V.I.S.A. Drop-in Sessions• Career Clinics• Skype Facilities• Careers and V.I.S.A. Events Spaces• IT helpdesk contact information• Finance office online payments and help• Funding and Finance Support
New 2GCUWe’ll help you through those first weeks in your new course. If you haven’t already visited campus you will get the chance to tour our buildings and facilities with a student guide. Our welcome programme for all new students is full of induction advice and support. www.gcu.ac.uk/new2gcu
Student supportStarting a new course at a new institution may be daunting, but don’t worry. There is plenty of information and support available to help you settle in and start getting the most out of your time here at GCU.
For many students, university provides much more than just a degree. It is a place to meet lifelong friends, travel, develop skills and find interests that can remain with you (and on your CV) throughout your life.
At GCU students can access a whole host of student support services from one centrally located helpdesk in the Saltire Centre.
At the Campus Life Desk you will find the following services and facilities:
• Visa & Immigration Support & Advice (V.I.S.A)
• Student Registry• Careers Service
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Student support
mental health difficulties, physical impairment, specific learning disabilities (e.g. dyslexia) and autism. Any personal information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence. www.gcu.ac.uk/student/disability
Positive Living TeamThe Positive Living Team provides one-to-one counselling and personal development groups for students experiencing a wide range of issues, including stress and anxiety, and workshops and events for all students aimed at promoting positive living and mental wellbeing. www.gcu.ac.uk/positiveliving
Student MentorsOur student mentoring scheme can connect you to existing GCU students, many of whom also made the move from college to university. They can share their knowledge and experience and offer a friendly ear, reassurance, practical information and advice. Most importantly, they will be able to signpost you to the staff and services who can deal with any issue you might have. www.gcu.ac.uk/new2gcu/support/mentors
Disability TeamThe Disability Team provides advice, information and services to students and applicants. Each year around 1200 GCU students disclose a disability, including long term medical conditions, sensory impairment,
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Find us Campus
Access to the universityA Vehicle entrance from Cowcaddens RoadB Pedestrian entrances from Cowcaddens Road
University buildings01 Hamish Wood Building (Rooms W)
Partially under construction until Spring 2016 as part of an exciting £30m campus development project
02 The Saltire Centre Contains the University Library
03 George Moore Building (Rooms M) Contains the University Restaurant, ‘Study Club’ area and Campus Life desk
04 Govan Mbeki Building (Rooms A)
05 Students’ Association06 Arc Health and Wellbeing Facility07 Centre for Executive
Education (Rooms CEE) Go here to register and get your student card in September.
08 William Harley Building (Rooms H) 09 Britannia Building (Rooms B)
10 Charles Oakley Laboratories (Rooms C)
11 Teaching Block12 Milton Street Building
(Rooms MS)
13 Nursery14 Caledonian Court
Student Accommodation
Access (lifts, ramps and automatic doors)
Food and drink
For an online campus tour, visitwww.gcu.ac.uk/theuniversity/gcu360tour
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Map and travel
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Glasgow (city centre)
UniversityA Glasgow Caledonian University
National and regional travelTrain stationsB Central StationC Queen Street StationBus stationD Buchanan Bus Station
Local and regional travelTrain stationsE Charing CrossF AnderstonG Argyle StreetSubway stationsH CowcaddensI Buchanan StreetJ St Enoch
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Visit us or get in touch
Enquiries Team www.gcu.ac.uk/enquireE: [email protected] T: +44 (0)141 331 8630
College Connect Academywww.gcu.ac.uk/collegeconnectE: [email protected]: +44 (0)141 273 1954 Student Funding TeamE: [email protected]: +44 (0)141 273 1376 Disability Team(Positive Living and Disability Service)E: [email protected]: +44 (0)141 273 1371
Useful contacts
Go to www.gcu.ac.uk/openday for details of our upcoming open events or enquire at [email protected] or 0141 331 8630. Facebook: facebook.com/GlasgowCaledonianUniversityTwitter: twitter.com/CaledonianNewsYouTube: youtube.com/watchgcuLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/glasgow-caledonian-universityInstagram: Instagram.com/glasgow_caledonian_university
Visit us or get in touch
Glasgow Caledonian University Student Association (GCUSA)www.gcustudents.co.ukT: 0141 331 3886 E: [email protected]
UCASwww.ucas.com E: [email protected]: +44 (0)871 468 0 468
SAASwww.saas.gov.uk T: +44 (0)300 555 0505 Student Loans Companywww.slc.co.uk
For more information and contact details, explore: www.gcu.ac.uk/study/part-timedegrees
Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow G4 0BA Scotland, United KingdomT: +44 (0)141 273 1954 F: +44 (0)141 331 3005 E: [email protected]
Glasgow Caledonian University is a registered Scottish charity, number SC021474. © Glasgow Caledonian University 2015. Designed and printed by PDS. 92197_10/2015
