Vocational HE applications in Sussex up by 871

1 Mar 2007

The number of people applying to full-time undergraduate courses at UK universities and colleges has increased by 6.4%, latest statistics from UCAS show. The rise represents 395,307 applicants applying to enter HE in 2007 compared to 371,683 in 2006. The snapshot of data is taken at UCAS’ 15 January advisory closing date for UK and EU applicants, although it is possible to apply right up until the start of the academic year.

A key fact highlighted by the figures is that the University of Brighton has seen a 48.5% increase in applications to Foundation Degrees, which is 22.3% higher than the national average.

Across the UK there has been a 26.2% increase in applications to Foundation Degrees, while within Sussex:

• an increase of 49 applications at the University of Chichester
• a significant increase of 597 applications at the University of Brighton (which includes its partner colleges)
• an increase of 115 applications at the University of Sussex
• an increase of 118 applications at Northbrook College Sussex

Across the UK the decrease of 11.6% in applications to HNDs was expected as courses are re-validated as Foundation Degrees. Within Sussex this change accounted for the majority of the reduction in HND applications.

In real terms these figures mean there are overall 871 additional applications to Foundation Degrees or HNDs in Sussex compared to the same time last year.

Read the UCAS news release for more information.

NB. The increase in applications is in part due to an increased range of courses attracting a wider range of applicants.