The 2002 Guide for Mature Students is the ninth edition of this invaluable reference book. The guide is funded by the Department of Education and Science and it is one of the most efficient ways of getting an overview of the courses on offer at third level and how to go about applying for a place.

The guide is well laid out and clearly written. It begins with a general information section, which explains the criteria for being considered as a mature student and what financial assistance might be available to those returning to education. For example, it explains about the Back to Education Allowance, which is aimed at those who are unemployed, lone parents and people with disabilities. The grants system for mature students is also covered and there is information about the Central Admissions Office (CAO) through which many third-level colleges (but not all) channel their applications from mature students.

The main meat of the guide is a listing of all the third-level institutions including the universities, the institutes of technology, teacher training colleges and those described as "other", which includes organisations such as the Shannon College of Hotel Management and the National College of Art and Design.

What's particularly useful in the college listings section is the column detailing the number of places reserved for mature students. In the past, mature students often felt hard done by in terms of the number of places available to them, but each college's commitment to mature students is here for all to see.

Apart from giving details of the courses on offer, the colleges listing also shows the educational requirements and /or other entry requirements and details the entry procedure - i.e. through the CAO or direct to the institution.

The update section gives specific information about the mature-student supports offered by different colleges. For example, some offer foundation courses for intending mature undergraduates, others provide study skills courses and some colleges have a designated person to look after the needs of mature students and they may assign personal tutors to act as mentors.

The guide ends with a useful quick reference to courses by subject matter.

The guide is available free of charge from the Curriculum Development Unit at (01) 453 5487.