Online Learning

These courses offer flexibility whilst retaining our commitments to academic and student support. Many of our Online & Distance Learning courses are free, if you meet specific criteria.

Learn on your terms with flexible Online Learning

Life is busy. Between work, family, and social commitments, finding time to attend college classes can be difficult. Our Online Learning courses are designed to bridge that gap.

Whether you are looking to upskill for a promotion, retrain for a brand-new career, or simply explore a subject you are passionate about, our online courses allow you to study whenever and wherever suits you best.

Our online courses are perfect if you want to:

Study flexibly

No fixed timetables, no commute. Log in and learn at a time that works for you and your family.

Gain qualifications

Achieve nationally recognised Level 2 and Level 3 certificates that employers value.

Avoid exams

Most of our courses are assessment-based, meaning you build a portfolio rather than sitting exams.

Stay supported

You aren’t doing it alone. You will be assigned a dedicated specialist tutor to guide you through.

Can I study Online Courses for free?

If applying for a Level 2 course:
  • Learners must be aged 19 years or over at the beginning of the current academic year
  • Must be a permanent resident in England and live in Somerset, Dorset, or Wiltshire
  • Must be a resident in the UK on the first day of learning
If applying for a Level 3 course:
  • Learners must be aged 19 years or over at the beginning of the current academic year and
  • Must be a permanent resident in England and live in Somerset, Dorset, or Wiltshire and
  • Must be a resident in the UK on the first day of learning.

And one of the following must apply:

  • Earn less than ÂŁ26,800 annual gross salary (ÂŁ2,233 monthly or ÂŁ515 weekly)
  • Be in receipt of benefits including Universal Credit (UC), Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) including NI Contributions only, Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Be employed and claiming benefits
  • Unemployed and not claiming benefits
  • Not currently holding a full Level 3 qualification in any subject (only applicable if aged 19-23 as of the current academic year).

Please be prepared to provide earnings and income evidence upon enrolment.

87%

of online learners in the UK achieved a positive career outcome.

11mil+

people in the UK actively participating in Online Learning.

ÂŁ1,500

yearly saving on average commuting costs in the UK.

Adult Learning

With one of the broadest adult learning curriculums in the UK, we offer hundreds of opportunities across the UCS College Group family, online, and in the workplace.

Part-time & Short Courses

Whether you’d like to learn something new, develop your skills further, or simply indulge in a hobby, we have a lot to offer!

Higher Education

At University Centre Somerset (UCS), we’re breaking the boundaries of traditional higher education.