A certificate programme is the first stage of a degree programme at Kent. Some certificate programmes accept applications from adults who have no formal qualifications, provided they can demonstrate an interest in and an aptitude for their chosen subject.

For instance, some programmes may ask you to provide evidence of your potential, for example by producing a short piece of written work, to ensure that this is the appropriate starting point for you. You may also be invited for an informal interview.

These entry requirements are set to help you to choose an appropriate level of study, and to indicate the level of work involved and whether prior knowledge is needed to support the successful completion of your studies. If the certificate programme you wish to study requires more specific entry qualifications, these can be gained in a number of ways:

• Taking an approved Access to Higher Education Diploma or a Youth Entry to Higher Education programme is a standard one-year entry route to study at degree-level. You should check with the University that the syllabus of the access course is appropriate for the degree programme you intend to take. You may be required to obtain particular grades in the credits allocated to particular subjects and/or be required to obtain a specified number of credits in particular subjects.
• Two relevant A level passes or their equivalent can be used to gain entry to most certificate programmes, although most programmes will require minimum grades for some programmes, one or more specified subjects at particular grades. You may also be able to transfer credits gained elsewhere. Work-related experience and learning may also be accepted and for some courses it is a requirement.

To check the specific entry requirements for a particular programme, please refer to the facts given within its entry in this prospectus. If you are in any doubt about your own entry qualifications, you can call the Information and Guidance Unit for advice on the number below.

Computer skills are important for all students. If you are returning to study after some time you may not feel confident in using computers to assist with your work and to fulfil the requirements of the University.

As a part-time student you will be expected to demonstrate the following skills:

• Word processing documents
• Manage an email account (send/receive/attach files)
• Log on to and successfully navigate the internet
• Enter basic information into a website, such as log in and password details where required.

Further advice can be found at: www.kent.ac.uk/student/skills/it-skills

If you have registered for a parttime programme, but are concerned that you do not have any or all of the skills listed above, we are able to help with a variety of training courses to suit your needs and prepare you for studying at University level.

There are also some general requirements that apply to all part-time students. We recommend that you are aged 17 or over. You should also, with some exceptions, live or work within easy travelling distance of the University. Those living outside the European Union should note that it may not be possible to study on a part-time basis due to visa restrictions imposed by the UK Border Agency. Please check the UKBA visa eligibility requirements before applying for a place.

We recommend that you make your application online.

For those without web access, there is also a paper application form available upon request. Information and Guidance Unit T: 01227 827272 E: information@kent.ac.uk Office opening hours: Canterbury campus, 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday