Welcome to our University Centre
Discover how to get the Qualifications you need for the Career you want!
We offer excellent facilities, lots of contact time with tutors & outstanding student support.
Applications for 2023 are open now.
Apply online today or call 01704 392704 for more information.
Why Choose Southport College University Centre?
Small classes with supportive tutors
Lower tuition fees than traditional universities
Outstanding support tailored to you
In classes for just 2 days a week
Combine studying with work and family life
Browse our Subjects and Courses
Southport College University Centre offers you the choice to study for an Access Course, HND, Cert Ed or PGCE, right in the heart of the town.
Fantastic Facilities
University Centre Study Area
The Southport College University Centre buildings are recently refitted and provide our Higher Education Students with high quality, dedicated facilities, including a social learning space, kitchen and modern, bright, spacious classrooms.
Library Study Hub
The University Centre has its own dedicated Library Study Hub, that gives you access to all the books & digital learning resources you need. The staff are there to support and assist and students are also able to borrow a laptop or make use of the quiet study area.
Art and Design
Our Art and Graphics students have access to state-of-the-art facilities including Mac computers, clothes printing presses, screen printing facilities, computer-controlled embroidery machines, 3D printers and modern, airy studio spaces.
Childcare and Health & Social Care
We have a purpose-built simulated hospital ward and a fully equipped children's nursery, providing our Early Years Students and those studying Healthcare Practice fantastic onsite practical settings which emulate live working environments.
Computing and IT
University Centre students benefit from free access to modern Windows based PCs with simulated infrastructure and networking facilities. Following a recent refurbishment, students can expect bright, modern teaching and learning environments and a state of the art technology workshop.
Engineering
Become an Engineering student with University Centre Southport and you will benefit from our newly fitted fantastic workshops with all the latest equipment.
Games Design
As a HND Games Design student, you will use the same Hollywood standard computer-generated imagery programmes as those used to create the graphics in Oscar-winning films such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Lord of the Rings.
Graphic Design
University Centre students have access to a wide range of printing presses, Macs, vast, naturally lit study spaces and a purpose built gallery, to exhibit and sell final pieces.
Science
As an Access to Science student you can benefit from brand new classrooms, refitted science labs and well equipped IT rooms as well as a range of specialist research books in the Library Study Hub.
College Gym
We have a well-equipped Fitness Suite packed with gym equipment, cardio machines and free weights for Southport College students to use free of charge.
Clouds Restaurant
At Clouds Restaurant, the public can come and enjoy a fine dining experience in stylish surroundings with panoramic views of Southport’s skyline.
Concept Salons
Concept Salons offer a range of beauty, hairdressing and barbering treatments to both male and female clients of all ages.
Your questions answered
We are often asked the following questions by prospective students...
How do I choose the right Higher Education course for me?
Our Student Guidance team can help you decide which course is your best choice; call us on 01704 392704 to speak to one of our friendly advisors. Alternatively why not attend one of our Open Evenings and talk to the different tutors. We are always happy to help.
How do I apply for a University Centre course?
You can apply for any of our University Centre courses directly through us. Just click Apply Now
Is there support for HE students?
Yes there is. As a student at Southport College University Centre you will have access to a range of support including careers advice and guidance; learning support, financial support and personal support if you need it. Visit our University Centre Support page to find out more, contact our Student Information Centre on 01704 392704 or email guidance@southport.ac.uk
Can I still work at the same time as studying?
Absolutely and many of our students do! A lot of our HE courses have compressed hours which they can be studied alongside work, family and other commitments. The days and hours you would be at the University Centre for your course is covered at your course discussion.
Can I get help with childcare?
There is a childcare grant available to help with childcare costs for students with dependent children. Apply online here.
Can I park at the University Centre?
The University Centre is part of Southport College and the College car parks are available for staff only parking until 4pm on weekdays. After 4pm students are able to use the Mornington Road and Church Street car parks. Visit Travelling to the University Centre to find more information about alternative nearby parking and public transport routes.
Lydia Haram – PGCE I would really recommend the course at Southport College University Centre because it has such a warm and welcoming environment. You feel your self-confidence grow with knowledgeable lecturers supporting and guiding you throughout. The HE facilities are of such a high standard, the library and its staff are amazing, with such a wide variety of books, journals and resources, all of which has got me into my dream career.
Alex Matthews – Foundation Degree in Criminology I went to another University but didn’t get the correct support. I spoke to Southport College University Centre who were really helpful and accepting of me, so I decided to transfer over. It genuinely is a great College. The learning is really interesting, teachers are very passionate and because class sizes are small, you meet people on a personal level and make great friendships.
Victoria Swift - HND Graphic Design I chose to study at Southport College University Centre as the course is exactly what I was looking for and is flexible enough to fit around my busy lifestyle. I am delighted I did as the staff on the programme are both supportive and helpful and the facilities are fantastic. It really is the most friendly course at the most friendly college I have ever attended. My advice to anyone considering studying at Southport College University Centre is to go for it because you will really enjoy it!”
Emma Shelton - Access to Social Science I’d always planned to go back to education when my youngest child was secondary school age. The Access to Social Science course has given me the skills and confidence I needed to go to university. The teaching staff have been excellent, there’s a lovely atmosphere and I’ve had lots of support.
Melanie Cornes – Foundation Diploma Art & Design Level 4 I chose to go to Southport College University Centre as it is local and it had the course that I wanted to do. It was daunting at first, especially as a single parent, but I've had a lot of guidance, support and encouragement. The Art Foundation course gives you a chance to be creative in your own style and it’s been really fun. The course has given me the confidence to take the next step, a degree in Fine Art at LJMU.
Supporting you through your journey
As a student at Southport College University Centre you will have access to a wide range of support tailor made to suit your needs..
Keeping up to date
Open Evening 27 March 2023
Whether you're in Year 10 considering your options for 2024, a Year 11 who wants another look round or and adult looking for their perfect course, you're invited to come and explore our campus. Bring along your friends, parents and carers, everyone is welcome to meet our tutors, explore our fantastic facilities and there's no need to book.
Adult Information and Application Evening
Come along and find out about our huge range of courses for adults. from part-time night classes to degree level courses, whether you want to retrain or learn for fun, there is something for everyone. You can apply on the night, there’s free parking and children are welcome too.
Term Dates
Autumn Term 2022
Half Term
Monday 24 October - Friday 4 November (inclusive)
Spring Term 2023
Half Term
Thursday 9 - Friday 17 February (inclusive)
Summer Term 2023
Half Term
Monday 29 May - Friday 2 June (inclusive)
