§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what estimate she has made of(a) how many and (b) what percentage of those studying for (i) undergraduate degrees and (ii) equivalent vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland are mature students; and if she will make a statement. [2738]
§ Mr. WorthingtonThere are no direct equivalencies between undergraduate degrees and vocational qualifications. The following table provides an analysis by qualification aim of those studying at undergraduate level in HE institutions in Northern Ireland in 1996–97.
Undergraduate students in higher education establishments1 in Northern Ireland 1996–97 Qualification aim Mature students2 All students Percentage mature First degree 11,475 24,178 47.5 Professional qualifications 194 201 96.5 Diploma/Certificate in HE 225 376 59.8 HND/HNC 322 1,100 29.3 NVQ/SVQ levels 4 and 5 0 0 — Institutional credit 2,322 2,337 99.4 Foundation course 131 241 54.4 Other undergraduate 612 618 99.0 Total 15,281 29,051 52.6 1Excludes HE in FE establishments. 2 Students aged 21 or over in the current academic year. The participation of mature students in Higher Education in Northern Ireland continues to increase and this is to be welcomed.