FE College v University

[work in progress]

Now that the academic year has ended, my mind turns again to the students who have recently left us and will excitedly start university in the autumn. I have provided advice and support for those moving on and thought it a good idea to record some points.

There are significant differences between university and FE college cultures – there’s nothing wrong with either, its not a best/worse comparison. In fact FE colleges are often used to deliver specialist subjects on behalf of universities, and I did this role for over 12 years. However, different environments suit different people better, and when moving from one to the other its helpful to know the differences. This is especially true for those who “grew up” in a college, going from 14 year olds to 18, they know only the college culture and mentality.

Its also important to note I have limited current university experience, and my observations are based on those years delivering courses, writing and marking exams for a major university, all from the point of view of a FE lecturer. During such time, and to this day, I compare the experience to teaching apprenticeships and BTEC courses, but  might be a little out of date.

In no particular order:

Faster learning curve

University modules tend to be one term or semester (one and a half terms) and rarely develop on to a higher level. This means you must develop from level 3 skills to level 5 in this time. College tend to allow for personal development over the whole 2 year course, so you’re not expected to have gone from level 2 to level 3 in just 12 weeks, but you should be showing improvement