Lifelong Learning Centre

The Lifelong Learning Centre is a multi-disciplinary academic school running foundation year, degree (part time and full time) and apprenticeship courses. Our foundation years lead to more than 200 degree programmes at the University of Leeds.

We are also a specialist service supporting mature and part-time undergraduate students across the University. We work in close partnership with our diverse student community to deliver excellent, inclusive teaching and support

We are passionate about lifelong learning and widening access to the University for those who are under-represented in higher education. Many of our students join us without formal qualifications like A-levels or GCSEs through our alternative entry scheme. We work with adult learners and local community partners to encourage people to think about studying at university.

Get in touch

If you’re thinking of studying at Leeds and don’t hold formal qualifications, don’t let that stand in the way. Email the Lifelong Learning Centre at lifelonglearning@leeds.ac.uk or call us on +44(0)113 343 3212 for a chat.

If you work for a community organisation and want to find out more about our outreach activities, email the Communities and Partnerships team at candp@leeds.ac.uk.

Study with us

  • Mature students

    Starting at university a bit later in life can be a major change. We offer exceptional support and a range of courses for adult learners.

    Two mature students sitting and laughing outside Leeds University Union
  • Foundation year courses

    Find out more about our foundation year courses and the support we offer.

    A student wearing a grey University of Leeds hoodie sitting with their hands together on a sofa
  • Part-time courses

    Our part-time undergraduate courses are designed to be studied alongside work and other commitments.

    Two mature students working together at a desk with laptops
  • Apprenticeships

    Created in partnership with employers, our apprenticeships help employees develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for their chosen career.

    Three nursing associate apprentices in scrubs

Facts and figures

96% of our students say teaching on their course was excellent

National Student Survey 2024

719 people took part in our outreach activities

2023–2024

446 people attended our impartial guidance service

2023–24

465 students on courses taught by the Lifelong Learning Centre

2023–24