Budget Educational Opportunities

University tuition fees are costly. As such, some may feel financially unable to embark upon a higher education programme. Learning need not always take place within the walls of a university, however. Increasingly, more budget or even free educational opportunities are becoming available. Whether you’re a university student looking to expand your body of knowledge on the cheap, or a student in the school of life keen to be inspired and challenged intellectually, there are a variety of learning opportunities to be found in your community, at your local university and online.
Out and About
It is widely known that many museums and galleries open their doors for free to members of the public. Some, however, charge relatively high entrance fees. Such venues should not be dismissed, however. Take a look at the institution’s websites and keep an eye out for offers. Many galleries open for free on just one or two days of the week, or at certain off-peak hours of the day. Museums and galleries near you are also likely to be holding workshops, lectures, debates and guided tours. Many of these will be affordably priced or free of charge. Sign up to the mailing lists of your favourite galleries to receive offers, discounts and invitations.The majority of theatres, too, are keen to make their performances financially accessible, particularly to the young. Arts Council England recently launched their A Night Less Ordinary scheme, which offers under 26 year olds free or heavily discounted admission to play performances. With more than 200 venues participating throughout England, you are sure to find one near to you. Tickets go quickly, so, again, it is important to sign up to theatre’s mailing lists so that you can act quickly when tickets are released. For those over 26, the theatre need not be off limits. Stand-by tickets can be found at low prices by those with the flexibility to buy on the day of the performance.
Your local libraries and bookshops can also be a useful source of cerebral stimulus. Keep a close eye on their events calendars and look out for readings and discussions with your favourite authors.Public lectures are also worth looking out for. These might take place at a university, a museum or a public building such as a town hall. Often scheduled to coincide with people’s working lunch hours, these are sometimes termed ‘brown bags’, so called because you can take along your sandwiches.
At University
If you happen to be a university student but are looking for something extra, your university is likely to prove a great resource for additional stimulation. Non-compulsory lectures and seminars, as well as concerts and performances can complement your chosen course or give you something completely different to consider. At the start of the academic year, be sure to sign up to clubs and societies that intrigue you and their leaders will keep you in the loop regarding events.Check your university email account regularly for news of conferences and symposiums you may be eligible to attend. These often take place during the university holidays and offer a fantastic opportunity to learn from academic professionals and to see how they present their ideas.
Getting to know a few members of teaching staff is always a good idea. You may be able to help out at conferences they are organising or you may even be able to assist with their research.
Online
The internet holds a multitude of educational opportunities at the flick of a switch. Search for online or email courses that interest you. Many of these are free but be sure to conduct a little research to ascertain their reputability, or you may fall prey to spam and scams.Institutions such as the The Open University (OU) and Oxford Online offer distance learning courses taught by professional academics via forums, email and materials received in the post. These are almost always cheaper than a standard university course.Quality, well regulated forums can also ignite the brain, offering the opportunity for considered debate.
With so many opportunities available, it can be difficult to know where to start. As such, a good tip is to keep a personal events diary. As soon as you receive an email detailing a worthwhile event, be sure to RSVP (if necessary), and note the event in your diary. When you have one or two interesting events to attend in the coming week, you are sure to feel stimulated and in charge of your own continued education.
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
Hello I live in Ethiopia currently I'm seeing some sponsorships for my education I'm looking sponsorships for my school…
Re: Paying for Private Tuition
Is there any help I can get for my 16 year old daughter for private tutoring I’m on full time sick,she struggles at school an her…
Re: About University Fundraising
I'm a UEA student I'm pursuing master's in MSC international business management I need help for my tution fees I'm desperately…
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
I am a 20 year old graduate from Watford and I am emailing to ask for help to support my time at university. I have just…
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
I am a 20 year old graduate from Watford and I am emailing to ask for help to support my time at university. I have just…
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
I am a 20 year old graduate from Watford and I am emailing to ask for help to support my time at university. I have just…
Re: What is the Adult Learning Grant and am I Eligible
I have the opportunity to retrain but the course fees are £3000. As I have no savings and work…
Re: The Cost of Further Education Courses
Hello, I'm a single Mum, I'm 22 with a 1 year old little boy. I have wanted to go back to college to get some…
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
To whom it may consent, My name is Francis I'm from Philippines and an architecture student and I need your help in…
Re: Education With Company Sponsorship
I am a female Ugandan aged 21 years looking for sponsorship to pursue a national certificate in Animal Husbandry