Student Finance Exception Courses

Certain courses are designated as “exception courses” for student finance purposes, often qualifying for different or more generous funding compared to standard higher education programs. These exceptions are typically granted due to the course’s unique nature, national importance, or high cost of delivery.

One common category of exception courses involves initial teacher training (ITT). Both undergraduate and postgraduate ITT courses leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) often attract specific funding arrangements. This is because the government prioritizes a steady supply of qualified teachers. Trainees might be eligible for bursaries or scholarships in addition to standard student loans, particularly in shortage subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and modern foreign languages. The amount of funding varies depending on the subject, level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate), and academic qualifications. The aim is to incentivize individuals with strong academic backgrounds to enter the teaching profession.

Another area where exception courses are frequently found is in healthcare-related disciplines. Degrees in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and allied health professions such as nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy often receive special consideration. This can involve NHS bursaries or funding contributions, especially for clinical placements. In some cases, students might receive tuition fee support, maintenance grants, or allowances to cover the costs associated with uniforms, equipment, and travel to placement locations. The rationale behind this is to ensure a sufficient workforce to meet the demands of the healthcare system.

Certain social work programs also fall under the exception courses umbrella. Due to the crucial role social workers play in supporting vulnerable individuals and families, specific funding schemes are often available. This might include bursaries or grants to help with living costs and placement expenses. The goal is to encourage talented individuals to pursue careers in social work, addressing staffing shortages and ensuring high-quality social care services.

Furthermore, some highly specialized postgraduate programs may be considered exception courses, especially if they address skills gaps in strategically important industries. These courses are often characterized by their intensive nature, high costs, and close links to industry. Funding mechanisms could include government-backed loans, scholarships, or employer sponsorship. Examples might include advanced engineering programs, data science degrees, or courses focused on artificial intelligence.

It’s important to note that the specific criteria for determining exception course status and the details of available funding can vary depending on the country, devolved administration (e.g., England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland), and the specific course provider. Students considering such courses should carefully research the available funding options and eligibility requirements. Information is typically available from the relevant student finance agency (e.g., Student Finance England, Student Awards Agency Scotland), the university or college offering the course, and professional bodies associated with the relevant profession.