What do mature students need?
In recent years there has been an increase in mature students across UK universities, including UCL. This trend is likely to persist due to the need and desire to upskill and re-train over the course of a career, as well as the government's commitment to lifelong learning. The shifting student demographic underscores the necessity to accommodate a more diverse range of needs throughout the student journey, particularly at welcome and induction stage. This is particularly important as mature students are more likely than their peers to discontinue their courses. These perspectives are recognised in UCL’s 2023 report: Setting Mature Students up for Success. Targets have been set to reduce this discontinuation gap.
A detailed research study was set up via survey, focus group, in-depth interviews and case study analysis of mature student offerings from other universities. Overall, the feeling was that UCL had the opportunity to improve its offering for mature students further. Some specific findings were as follows:
- In terms of UCL’s central welcome events there was a clear preference for in person opportunities to connect and interact with other mature students, and the inclusion of mature student perspectives and experiences in orientation activities.
- Also highlighted was the need for clear and comprehensive information about available support services for mature students. A minority highlighted the need for online opportunities for networking with other mature students, perhaps reflecting students based off campus.
- The biggest barrier to feeling welcome was that of age. Some mature students can feel ‘caught in the middle’, for example, between the majority of younger undergraduates, and much older postgraduates who may not view their experiences as similar to them.
- The most important factor mentioned in terms of feeling prepared to navigate university life as a mature student was specialised guidance on academic requirements and expectations for mature students.
- The biggest barrier to starting studying was time management (e.g. juggling work or childcare) and study skills such as taking notes and academic writing.
What are UCL doing?
UCL has begun to act on the report’s findings and recommendations. Perhaps the most significant development has been the Mature Students Society changing to the Mature, Part-Time and Carers Network (that also caters for parents). This change is significant for UCL in that Network status ensures higher visibility and prominence in activities.
You can read more about the Network, including how to join and attend the various types of events planned - see all our current events below. These events are being put together by our committee with the aim of enabling greater connectivity among the mature, part-time, carer and parent community of students at UCL. We look forward to meeting you!