Admissions Policy
The College believes that opportunities to participate in higher education should be provided to all those with demonstrable ability to benefit. The College also recognises the benefits, to the College and to the wider community, of recruiting a diverse population of students and aims, in so doing, to widen and deepen access to Higher Education.
Admissions guidance for each course ensures that selection procedures are structured to operate efficiently and promptly having regard for the situation of each candidate. Following an initial screening of the application form, interviews are offered to all pre-selected candidates, excepting, at the College’s discretion, where alumni of the College are applying for a different course. Interviews normally involve two senior members of staff and they may be conducted in person or by video conference. All applicants for courses leading to a professional qualification have an opportunity to learn more about the course and the College at Introductory Events (online or at the College) and informal visits to the College are available throughout the year.
Decisions on admissions of candidates with non-standard qualifications are based on accreditation and recognition of prior learning, evidence of motivation, and capability for Higher Education as measured by tests including those for numeracy and literacy if deemed appropriate. Such applicants who do not reach the required standard will be advised of ways to reach the standard and invited to reapply at a later date.
The College will comply with QAA and UK Border Agency regulations regarding the admission of overseas candidates (at present we are unable to accept overseas candidates for our practitioner training courses; overseas candidates can apply for our online MSc courses).
Candidates for whom English is not their first language must comply with the validating University’s regulations for proof of acceptable standards in English. These are stated in the course specifications, available on our website.
The College regularly reviews the appeal of its portfolio of taught programmes and the nature of its admissions publicity, and makes changes where required. The College monitors take-up rates and the subsequent progression of students and uses this information to influence policy and procedures and to inform curriculum change and development.
Candidates must be over 18 for admission to any course at the Northern College of Acupuncture and must meet or exceed the minimum entry requirements as set for each course.
This policy statement and implementation strategy was reviewed by Academic Board at its meeting on 4th November 2021. It is due for further review by Summer 2025.
