West Lancashire to benefit from new flexible study options at Edge Hill University
Student finance now available for shorter courses
From September 2026, Edge Hill University in West Lancashire is set to offer more flexible study opportunities as student finance is broadened to include shorter courses for the first time.
The announcement comes as Labour reveals the first 130 universities and colleges approved to provide these new courses.
Traditionally, higher and further education has focused on full-time degrees and qualifications immediately following secondary education.
This model often does not accommodate those who need to fit study around existing commitments or who wish to return to education later for career advancement.
The funding extension for these smaller courses allows individuals to gain qualifications over time, removing the need for a three-year full-time degree that has previously been a barrier to many.
The upcoming modules will address sectors with known skills shortages such as economics, computing, engineering, architecture, as well as health and social care.
This initiative is crucial to the government’s goal of ensuring two-thirds of young people undertake high-standard apprenticeships, higher training, or university studies by 25 years old.
Ashley Dalton, MP for West Lancashire, expressed enthusiasm for the flexible courses at Edge Hill University:
“The new flexible courses at Edge Hill will make a real difference to people in West Lancashire,” Dalton said.
“Whether it's retraining, progressing at work, or starting a new career, they’ll help busy working people gain skills whilst balancing jobs and childcare.”
Dalton added, “It’s fantastic to see Edge Hill leading the way, giving local people more choice over how and when they learn.”