University of Greater Manchester for Mature Students: Degrees With GCSEs or 1 Year's Work Experience (2026/27)
Quick answer
The University of Greater Manchester (formerly the University of Bolton) teaches degrees at its Manchester campus on Greenheys Lane for home and mature students.
- Age 21+: you can get in with 5 GCSEs or a Level 2 qualification (school qualifications from your home country count), or 1 year's relevant work experience in the last 2 years.
- Fees: £5,760 for the Foundation Year, then £9,790 a year, covered by Student Finance for eligible home students.
- Study: 2 days a week. Intakes in January, May and September.
Courses (with or without a Foundation Year)
- BSc Computing
- BSc Health and Social Care
- BSc Accounting and Finance
- BSc Business and Marketing
- BSc International Business Management
Each course can start with a Foundation Year (4 years in total) or go straight into Year 1 (3 years) if you meet the entry requirements.
Entry requirements
Age 21 and over:
- Education route: 5 GCSEs, any Level 3 or a Level 2 equivalent. Qualifications from your home country are accepted.
- Work route: 1 year's relevant work experience in the last 2 years, with payslips, matching bank statements and employer verification.
Age 18–20: you need a Level 3 qualification, such as A-levels or a BTEC.
Interview and English
- Written test: a 15-minute written statement on a set question.
- Interview: 15–25 minutes with an academic.
- English: checked at a face-to-face interview, or through Duolingo, an on-campus test or the Oxford English test.
Campus and timetable
- Address: Base Building, Greenheys Lane, Manchester M15 6LR
- Timetable: 2 full days a week on campus.
- Intakes: January, May and September.
Student finance
Home students can usually borrow the full fee with a Tuition Fee Loan and get a Maintenance Loan for living costs. See mature student finance eligibility and Universal Credit and student finance.
Apply with free support
We'll check your route in, help you prepare for the written test and interview, and guide you through student finance. Our service is free.
Frequently asked questions
Is the University of Greater Manchester the same as the University of Bolton?
Yes. The University of Bolton became the University of Greater Manchester. These courses are taught at its Manchester campus on Greenheys Lane.
Can I study there without A-levels?
Yes, if you're 21 or over. 5 GCSEs or a Level 2 qualification, or 1 year's recent relevant work experience, can get you in.
What work experience evidence do I need?
1 year's relevant work in the last 2 years, with payslips, matching bank statements and employer verification.
How much does it cost?
£5,760 for the Foundation Year, then £9,790 a year, covered by Student Finance for eligible home students.
When are the intakes?
January, May and September.