UCD launched its modular BA in 1992. Since then 600 people have graduated from the programme and a significant number have gone on to postgraduate studies. Each year between 100 and 150 people of all ages apply for modular places, with the highest number of students in the 25 to 50 age group.

A total of 23 subjects are covered by the programme, but not all subjects are offered at foundation level every year. Fees for the course are £870 per module and those on the full programme would take two modules per year. The time commitment is two evenings per module and teaching takes place between 6.30 and 9.30 p.m. at Belfield.

Applications for the course are through the CAO, which means applications should be in before February 1st, 2002. There is no interview for the modular and those aged over 20 and under 23 years can gain admission with a Leaving Cert which meets matriculation requirements. This means having six subjects with at least two at honours level. Applicants who are older than 23 will be considered on grounds of maturity and no formal qualifications are required.

The modular structure allows students to complete a degree at their own pace. If a student needs to drop out, he or she can pick up where they left off at a future date.

The main qualities required to succeed as a modular student are stamina and staying power, which the director of the programme, Dr Alan Harrison, says most modular students have.

"Our students come because they really want to. They tend to be highly motivated and most do extremely well regardless of their previous educational background. There is ample proof of this in the exam results which show a comparatively low failure rate among our students. Unless there is a real negative we are willing to let people have a go and as much as possible we keep the programme open-entry.

"We have a dedicated office for modular students and we're very user-friendly! We welcome enquiries or visits from those who might be interested in joining us and we will be holding information evenings which are open to all," Harrison says.

For further information on the modular degree, you can contact Barbara Gannon, modular BA office, UCD, Dublin 4. Telephone: (01) 716 8241.