Two-year degrees will help save £25k

PLANS for fast-track degree courses which could save students £25,000 were welcomed last night.

The two-year degree would allow youngsters to avoid crippling debt while getting the same level of qualifications as three-year courses.

The Government wants to “bust open the increasingly inflexible system of higher education”, after 73 per cent of universities reported that students and employers wanted an accelerated option. Universities Minister Jo Johnson said there would be “big savings” for students, taxpayers, and universities.

The standard threeyear degree costs £9,250 a year, and although universities will be able to raise the yearly course fees to £11,100, students taking the shorter option will still be 20 per cent better off.

They will end up saving £5,500 in tuition fees along with housing and living costs.

Added to the average salary of £19,000 for new graduates, savings of £25,000 can be made.

Professor Les Ebdon, of Fair Access to Higher Education, said they are an “attractive option” for mature students.

He said: “Having often battled disadvantage, these students can thrive in higher education and I hope that now many more will be able to take up the opportunity.”

Laura Montague, in her final year of an accelerated degree at Staffordshire University, said: “Being able to do the course in a two-year time frame makes you dive into the course.”