Choosing the right course
It is important to get as much course advice before starting your distance learning qualificaton. Therefore, ICS has put together some questions that you may want to consider before enrolling. Whether you're looking for study advice or advice on finding the right career, we can point you in the right direction. Whatever you are hoping to achieve from studying with ICS, you’ll want to make sure that the course you choose is the right course for you as well as for your future career development.
Doing a distance learning course takes time and effort so you should make sure you know what you want to get out of it before committing yourself to a period of study.
Course Advice
Please see the links below for more information.
What are qualifications and why do I need them?
If you have a qualification it proves to prospective employers that you have acquired a prescribed level of knowledge and skill and that you are committed to your career and work in a particular discipline. You normally receive a certificate as proof of your achievement.
Depending on your chosen career, it may be necessary for you to gain a specific qualification, for example, a doctor or a lawyer needs to attain a certain level of qualification in a specific subject in order to practice. In other careers, it is a definite advantage to have qualifications although they may not be essential.
Some qualifications enable you to go on to further study, so that whilst you may not be able to complete your chosen course, the right course can put you on the correct career path. Degree and Professional courses usually have entry requirements.
Back to top
What are the reasons for doing a course?
There are a number of reasons why you would want to study a course.
- A change of career
- A career focussed course following an academic one to provide specific skills
- To receive a promotion at work
- To move onto further study, for example to get on to your chosen degree course
- To stimulate your mind and gain insight into a personal interest
The reasons why you’re looking to enrol on a period of study will impact on the course you choose.
Back to top
Which type of course should I do?
Depending on your circumstances there are a number of options for you. Vocational qualifications are normally completed through learning practical skills and key training methods whereas academic qualifications are intended to improve skills in research, analysis and presentation.
At ICS, our IT, Vocational and Professional qualifications are intended for students with a specific career in mind, whilst Degree, GCSE and A Level qualifications show a general level of academic achievement.
Back to top
Am I suited to distance learning?
Before starting out on a period of study with ICS, you should consider whether non-classroom based learning is right for you. ICS offer study guides, textbooks, tutor support, online tools, and student communities to ensure that you aren’t studying alone, although you will need to be committed to studying and to be able to find time to get away and complete coursework. Essentially you will need plenty of self-discipline and motivation.
The main reason why students do not complete their distance learning course is due to other life commitments and, although we at ICS try to encourage and remain beside out students, unfortunately a number of students can leave their studies. We recommend that students think hard about the time they can put aside to studying and that they prepare timetables targeted on getting their coursework in on time.
Back to top
What about my financial circumstances?
You should be realistic about funding. At ICS, we offer payment plans so you do not have to pay the full amount in one go. However, if you can afford to pay the full amount at the point of enrolment you will receive at least a 10% discount on the price of the course.
You should investigate sources of funding. Funding for education is available although it does depend on the type of course and your personal circumstances. You should contact a Careers Advisor who should be able to point you in the right direction.
Information on funding is available in the Education and Learning section at http://www.direct.gov.uk. Scottish students can also visit http://www.ilascotland.org.uk for information on receiving funding for courses.
Back to top
Are there entry requirements for my course?
Each course will have different entry requirements. Please check the dedicated course page for more information on entry requirements. It is worth remembering that although certain careers may not require essential qualifications, prospective employers will always favour those with a qualification behind them.
Back to top
Should I complete a vocational or an academic qualification?
An academic course will suit you if you have no clear job in mind, and just want to get a qualification that shows you've achieved a certain educational standard. They show you have analytical and research skills - skills you need in most jobs.
GCSEs and A Levels provide a good grounding in many subjects and lead on to higher study. Many jobs ask for a good standard of education, at least five GCSEs, good A Levels, or a degree.
Certain employers may favour practical skills over theoretical knowledge as you may not have the skills that someone who has done the job will have.
Alternatively, you could study an academic course and then get practical skills by doing voluntary work whilst you're on the course. Many employers are happy to supply on the job training. We recommend you enquire with your employers are to any benefits they offer. Employers sometimes even sponsor their staff to complete courses so it always worth enquiring about.
Back to top
How do I know the course is right for me?
Some courses may not provide the level of knowledge that you require and others may go too far in the opposite direction. We recommend that you ask as many questions as you can think of when speaking to course advisors so that your mind is put at rest and you are sure that the course is right for you.
The best way to assess a course is by completing research. There’s plenty of information available on courses and institutions and it’s always good to ask previous students.
We recommend you read the prospectus carefully and ensure that your course is accredited by a established institution so that you’ll receive a recognised qualification adding weight to your CV. We would recommend students contact a Careers Advisor for further information.
Back to top
Am I making the right choice?
Be realistic about your chances of success. It's possible to make quick decisions about wanting to change career but if you've not been in education for a while and haven’t thought carefully about the correct qualification, enrolling on the wrong course could cause problems.
Know what you want to achieve. Whether the reason’s a particular job, a new career, or a personal interest, ensure that you know what you want to get out of it and keep that focus on your goal in order to remain motivated. Read careers information, buy trade magazines, and speak to people currently working in the job.
This research is well worth it. It's better to take your time rather than doing a course that leads to a job you might not really want. You'll ensure that you don't waste any time or money.
Back to top
What am I going to do after the course?
You should have an idea what you want to do when you complete the course. If you are aiming for a specific job, look into doing some work experience while you study.
If you want to specialise in a certain career or start off at a higher level, you could do a more advanced course following the completion of your foundation course.
Having a guide will help you make the most of the opportunities that come your way. Speak to our staff and course advisors for help with making your decision. We really do want your success to be our success.
Back to top
Useful Links