Search:

Preparatory courses

Student smiling in front of an iPad

Preparatory courses at Herts

Preparatory courses build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for higher education, helping you progress towards a degree, qualification and chosen career. They are ideal if you need to meet entry requirements, improve your English language skills or develop subject knowledge.

If you need extra preparation before starting university, you'll find a range of options to suit different qualifications, English language levels, subject interests and study goals. From pre-sessional English programmes to specialist pathways, each course is designed to support your next step and help you make informed choices about future study.

Several courses support progression to further study at Herts, helping you move closer to the qualification required for your intended profession, while others can also be taken as standalone qualifications. Study options and progression opportunities vary by course, so check the individual course page for details.

Before you apply

Explore practical information that can help you plan your studies, understand your options and make informed decisions about life at Herts. 

FAQs

Preparatory courses are for students who need to meet course entry requirements, improve their English language skills, develop subject-specific knowledge or explore a specialist area before progressing to further study. These include pre-sessional English courses and specialist preparatory programmes.

The right course depends on your qualifications, English language level, subject interests and future study plans. Each course has its own entry requirements and intended progression route, so check the course page carefully before applying.

Pre-sessional English is an online programme for students who need to improve their English language skills before progressing to a course at Herts. Standard, Advanced and Higher routes are available depending on the requirements of the follow-on course.

Many preparatory courses are designed to support progression to further study. Progression requirements vary by course, so you should check the individual course page for details.

This undergraduate programme introduces current approaches to the therapeutic use of the arts, including drama, music, body movement and art psychotherapy. It can be studied as a standalone university certificate.

Some preparatory courses are delivered online, including the University's pre-sessional English programmes. Study mode varies by course, so check the specific course page for current information.

This depends on the course. For example, the University Certificate: Arts Therapies and Wellbeing Foundation awards a university certificate, while other preparatory courses may have different outcomes and progression routes.