Empire College London Empire College London Prospectus Prospectus 2015-2016 Page 1 of 32
Introduction Empire College London Prospectus It is a great pleasure to welcome you to Empire College London on behalf of the entire ECL team. Our college is dedicated to helping our students to achieve academic, professional and personal success by offering education, guidance and support based on modern educational standards and highly competitive market requirements. All our courses are certified by internationally recognized British qualification bodies and provide the students with the opportunity to get contemporary theoretical knowledge and practical skills in their chosen subjects. Our professional teachers and staff members dedicated to the students interests, our classrooms equipped with the latest interactive teaching technology, our caring and supportive environment will ensure that you will have both enjoyable and fulfilling time with us. Empire College London offers you the opportunity to get a qualification which will allow you to enter the professional employment market or to progress onto further study within the college and to higher education Degree programmes at British universities. Empire College London is dedicated to providing career oriented further education to students from diverse backgrounds willing to achieve their professional and personal goals through learner-centred teaching, support and guidance. We offer educational programmes based on internationally recognized British qualification frameworks to prepare students for successful careers or higher education. At ECL, our goals are: To provide students with contemporary theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for achieving success in chosen professions and / or further studies. To enhance students communication skill, analytical abilities and personal qualities. To encourage and facilitate development of staff and faculty members. To be rated as outstanding for teaching and learning in terms of QAA/ISI measures. To continue to attract local & international young people and adults onto our ongoing courses. We wish you all the best in achieving your most challenging goals and we can assure you that during the time of your study, we will be Working together towards your future. We look forward to welcoming you to Empire College London. Page 2 of 32
Accreditations Empire College London Prospectus UK Visas and Immigration Empire College London is licensed by the Home Office UK Visas and Immigration as Tier 4 Sponsor. Licence Number: G3XH33TH1 Pearson Education Limited (Pearson) is the UK's largest awarding organisation, offering academic and vocational qualifications and training to schools, colleges, employers and other places of learning in the UK and internationally. City & Guilds is one of the UKs leading awarding bodies offering more than 500 qualifications across 28 industry sectors. City & Guilds is the biggest name in UK for vocational education. ATHE are an Ofqual regulated awarding organisation specialising in management qualifications. These qualifications are all on the QCF and almost all of them provide progression routes to university degrees. The Independent Schools Inspectorate is an agency approved by the UKVI to carry out Educational Oversight inspections of Private Further Education Colleges and English Language Schools in England and Wales. ISI inspection is for the benefit of the students in colleges and seeks to improve the quality and effectiveness of their education. ISI Review Reports Link Page 3 of 32
Accreditations (Continued) Empire College London Prospectus Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Quality Assurance Agency is the independent body entrusted with monitoring and advising on standards and quality in UK Higher Education Sector. Quality Assurance Agency Review Report 2014: Empire College London has undergone a Review for Specific Course Designation by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and has received its final report, which is available in full at: www.qaa.ac.uk/reviews-and-reports/provider?ukprn=34035 We have received the following judgements from QAA: The review team has confidence in Empire College London Ltd's management of its responsibilities for the standards of the awards it offers on behalf of its awarding body and organisation. The review team has confidence that Empire College London Ltd is fulfilling its responsibilities for managing and enhancing the quality of the intended learning opportunities it provides for students. The review team concludes that reliance can be placed on the information that Empire College London Ltd produces for its intended audiences about the learning opportunities it offers. Page 4 of 32
Why study Business at Empire? Empire College London Prospectus In a rapidly changing business environment employers are looking for graduates who constantly have their finger on the pulse and can easily find solutions to an array of problems. This industry led course provides you with the fundamental tools to satisfy this criterion and equip you with the knowledge to manage a successful business or organisation. A mix of theory and practice will enable you to apply what you have learned to real world situations, increasing your employment prospects. At Empire College London you'll learn to balance numbers with human values; understand business operatives and entrepreneurship; consider the relationship between business and the community; and see through the eyes of classmates from around the world. The BTEC Level 5 and Level 7 program is ideal for those who wish to study at undergraduate & post graduate level to become better business managers. STUDY PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE QCF Awarding Programme Duration Level Body Level 4 Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Business (QCF) 12 Months Level 5 Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Business (Management) (QCF) 24 Months Level 7 Pearson BTEC Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership 12 Months (QCF) Level 4 ATHE ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Management 12 Months Level 5 ATHE ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Management 12 Months Level 6 ATHE ATHE Level 6 Diploma in Management 12 Months Page 5 of 32
Why study Computing at Empire? Empire College London Prospectus When you study computing, you will learn the design, development, installation, and implementation of all types of computer information systems and networks. Completing a qualification in Information Technology, gives you a sense of personal accomplishment, career satisfaction, and endless possibilities. Possible careers that you might pursue when you have your qualification include network engineer, systems administrator, security specialist, and computer forensic analyst. You might also specialize in distributed systems advancement, network development, and forensics research. Our faculty believes that academic research and industrial software development require significant understanding of both large systems development and maintenance. For this reason you will learn to work in teams on projects that foster team work and group accomplishments, as well as enhance your individual ability and comprehension of the material. STUDY PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE QCF Awarding Programme Duration Level Body Level 4 Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) 12 Months Level 5 Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) 24 Months Page 6 of 32
Why to join Teachers Training at Empire? If you want to be trained as a teacher, we can provide high-quality teacher training for all phases of education at either undergraduate or postgraduate levels. Empire College London is a quality-assured centre for providing quality education. Attending to our Teachers Training Programme is full of opportunities to improve your fluency in English and presentation skills which may help you to enhance your career prospects. There are special arrangements for overseas graduates with teaching experience who want to gain accreditation as a qualified teacher in England. Since September 2007, all new teachers/trainers/tutors/assessors who teach will be required by law to obtain the Teaching Licence. This is an exciting breakthrough in learning vision that is set to transform standards across the very wide sector in the UK, from secondary schools up to Higher Education and including training in the workplace. If you are currently working or are seeking a career as a teacher, lecturer or instructor within the lifelong learning sector or you are an overseas trained teacher that seeks adaptation to the very latest, modern principles of teaching in Europe, then this is an ideal opportunity to qualify and work in one of the specialist areas in Lifelong Learning such as further or higher education, work-based learning or adult and community learning. STUDY PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE QCF Awarding Programme Duration Level Body Level 5 City & Guilds Diploma in Education and Training (DET) 12 Months Page 7 of 32
Our student s at a Glance Empire College London Prospectus Page 8 of 32
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Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) Awarding Body : City & Guilds Duration: 12 Months (Phase 1 and Phase 2) Intakes: September QCF Level: 5 Credit Value: 120 Credits Entry Requirements: Candidates must be 19+. Candidates wishing to undertake the DET programme must be experienced or qualified in the subject area they wish to teach at the appropriate level. Candidates must have access to 100 hours of teaching/training practice. Additionally, due to the nature of both the theory and practical assessments which students need to achieve for the DET are such that candidates will need good written and spoken English, i.e. the ability to read and interpret written tasks, and to write in an academic style. Candidates will also need to organise their work and supporting materials clearly and coherently. Learners also need a Subject Specific Mentor to support their studies and to carry out formal observations for them. Candidate must also provide evidence of an up-to-date and cleared Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. All candidates should demonstrate: Literacy and Numeracy level 2. (Overseas students should demonstrate IELTS 6.5 or higher) Course Information: the qualification is suitable for those who work or want to work as teachers in the Lifelong Learning Sector, i.e. further, adult and community education, work-based learning and the voluntary sector. The qualification is designed to enable candidates to: adopt an integrated approach to the theory and practice of teaching. reflect on their own previous/current levels of experience, practice and skills, and areas for development. identify principles of learning, teaching, assessment and evaluation. develop confidence, communication and interpersonal skills. develop an awareness of their professional role and responsibilities. This is a minimum 120 credit qualification. Phase 1 (75 Credits) Teaching, Learning and Assessment in Education and Training (Level 4) 20 Credits Theories, Principles and Models in Education and Training (Level 5) 20 Credits Developing Teaching, Learning and Assessment in Education (Level 5) 20 Credits Developing, Using and Organising Resources in a Specialist Area (Level 5) 15 Credits Page 11 of 32
Phase 2 (45 Credits) Wider Professional Practice and Development in Education and Training (Level 5) 15 Credits Understanding Theories and Frameworks for Teaching Disabled Learners (Level 5) 15 Credits Action Research (Level 5) 15 Credits The learners should also evidence 100 hours of teaching and complete 8 Observations (ideally 4 by their Mentor and 4 by the Teacher Trainer). Assessment is subject to internal and external verification of the Units submitted. This is a fulltime programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specifications Page 12 of 32
ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Management Awarding Body: ATHE Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 4 Credit Value: 120 Credits Entry Requirements: Relevant level 3 qualification or overseas equivalent. Secure English Language Test result CEFR B1 Level candidates from non-english speaking countries. Course Information: The ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Management is a 120 credit size qualification and is the equivalent level to the 1st year of a degree. The core content of this qualification is for those entering a role in management, with content focusing on business environment, communication skills and resource management, including an understanding of the research skills and personal development expected of a manager. Learners must complete 4 mandatory units worth 60 credits in total and a further 4 or 5 optional units totalling 120 credits to achieve the ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma in Management (QCF). Mandatory Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Business Environment 4 15 60 Resource Management 4 15 60 Communication Skills 4 15 60 People in Organisations 4 15 60 Optional Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Applying Promotional Techniques 4 15 60 Corporate Social Responsibility 4 15 60 Administrative Services 4 15 60 Planning a Work Based Team Project 4 15 60 Finance For Managers 4 15 60 Planning a New Business Venture 4 15 60 Customer Relationship Management 4 15 60 Study Skills 4 10 24 Employability Skills 5 15 60 Personal and Professional Development 5 15 60 Business Ethics 5 15 60 Business Law 5 15 60 Manage Sustainability in an Organisation 5 15 60 Qualification resources: The specification document which includes the learning outcomes, assessment criteria, indicative content and further information can be downloaded from the following link. Course Specification Progression Routes Page 13 of 32
ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Management Awarding Body: ATHE Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 5 Credit Value: 120 Credits Entry Requirements: ATHE level 4 Diploma or relevant level 4 qualification or overseas equivalent. Secure English Language Test result CEFR B1 Level candidates from non-english speaking countries. Course Information: The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Management is a 120 credit size qualification and is the equivalent level to the 2nd year of a degree. The content of this qualification is a focus on managing communication, business organisations in a global context, people management, finance for managers as well as an understanding of the research skills and personal development expected of a manager. Learners must complete 5 mandatory units worth 80 credits in total and a further 3 or 4 optional units totalling 120 credits to achieve the ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Management (QCF). Mandatory Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Managing Communication 5 15 60 Business Organisations in a Global Context 5 15 60 People Management 5 15 60 Finance for Managers 4 15 60 Research Project 5 20 80 Optional Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Managing Stakeholder Engagement 6 10 40 Risk Management 6 10 40 Leading Organisational Equality and Diversity 6 10 40 Corporate Social Responsibility 4 15 60 Manage Sustainability in an Organisation 5 15 60 Resource Management 4 15 60 Administrative Services 4 15 60 Planning a Work Based Team Project 4 15 60 Marketing Principles and Practice 5 15 60 Planning a New Business Venture 4 15 60 Customer Relationship Management 4 15 60 Employability Skills 5 15 60 Business Ethics 5 15 60 Personal and Professional Development 5 15 60 Business Law 5 15 60 Qualification resources: The specification document which includes the learning outcomes, assessment criteria, indicative content and further information can be downloaded from the following link. Course Specification Progression Routes Page 14 of 32
ATHE Level 6 Diploma in Management Awarding Body: ATHE Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 6 Credit Value: 120 Credits Empire College London Prospectus Entry Requirements: ATHE level 5 Diploma or relevant level 5 qualification or overseas equivalent. Secure English Language Test result CEFR B2 Level candidates from non-english speaking countries. Course Information: The ATHE Level 6 Diploma in Management is a 120 credit size qualification, equivalent in size and level to the third year of a bachelor s degree. In a time of ever increasing degree fees, the gap between those who are able to afford access to a university education and those who are not is widening. This Level 6 Diploma is part of a flexible suite of level 6 management qualifications that allow learners to work around their financial or lifestyle constraints to earn recognition for their achievement. The core content of this qualification is for those entering a strategic level of management. With a key emphasis on making that progression from an undergraduate to a graduate mentality, including an understanding of the research skills and personal development expected of a senior manager. The ATHE Level 6 Diploma in Management is a 120 credit qualification. Learners must complete the 6 mandatory units plus a further 3 or 4 optional units. Mandatory Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Leadership and Management 6 15 60 Research Project 6 10 40 Human Resource Management 6 15 60 Strategic Marketing 6 15 60 Personal Leadership and Management Development 6 10 40 Financial Decision Making for Managers 6 10 40 Optional Units Unit Title Level Credit GLH Project Management 6 15 60 Programme Leadership 7 10 40 Economics for Business 6 15 60 Risk Management 6 10 40 Corporate Communication Strategies 7 10 30 Sustainable Business Strategy 7 10 40 Strategic Planning 7 15 45 Managing Quality and Service Delivery 6 10 40 Leading Organisational Equality and Diversity 6 10 40 Managing Stakeholder Engagement 6 10 40 Qualification resources: The specification document which includes the learning outcomes, assessment criteria, indicative content and further information can be downloaded from the following link. Course Specification Progression Routes Page 15 of 32
BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) Awarding Body: Pearson Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 4 Credit Value: 120 Credits Minimum Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 18 and above. There are no defined entry requirements set by the Awarding Body. The College makes admission decisions based on students potential to complete the program. Applicants would benefit mostly from this program if they hold one or more of the following: a BTEC Level 3 qualification in IT or other related level 3 equivalent qualifications an Access to Higher Education Certificate received from an approved further education institution related work experience Mature students may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications. IELTS score of 5.5 with the minimum of 5.0 being awarded on individual sections, or demonstrate capability in English to a standard commensurate to this. Course Information: The HNC in Computing will offer a qualification that provides access to university, careers in computing and higher level courses. Current trends towards widespread communication, e-business and a proliferation of electronic devices in our society indicate the need for students to develop a detailed range of computing skills and techniques. The course will develop the knowledge, understanding and skills of students in the field of computing, that are essential for successful performance in the modern workplace. The HNC programme is an equivalent to a 1st year of a UK University Degree. This course leads to a recognised qualification which is accepted by several universities for direct entry into the 2 nd year of a Degree programme. Structure: The full programme consists of the following which will be studied full time throughout the year. Unit 1 Business Skills for e-commerce Unit 2 Computer Systems Unit 3 Employability and Professional Development Unit 6 - Management in IT Unit 29 - e-commerce Strategy Unit 43 - Networking Infrastructure Unit 50 - Work-based Experience Unit 14 - Website Design * Modules may be subject to change Assessment is through the submission of assignments, project or presentation at the end of each Unit. All assessments are externally marked and all units must be passed to achieve this qualification. This is a fulltime programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specifications Page 16 of 32
BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Computing and Systems Development (QCF) Awarding Body : Pearson Duration: 24 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 5 Credit Value: 240 Credits Minimum Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 18 and above. There are no defined entry requirements set by the Awarding Body. The College makes admission decisions based on students potential to complete the program. Applicants would benefit mostly from this program if they hold one or more of the following: a BTEC Level 3 qualification in IT or other related level 3 equivalent qualifications an Access to Higher Education Certificate received from an approved further education institution related work experience Mature students may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications. IELTS score of 5.5 with the minimum of 5.0 being awarded on individual sections, or demonstrate capability in English to a standard commensurate to this. Course Information: The HND in Computing will offer a qualification that provides access to university, careers in computing and higher level courses. Current trends towards widespread communication, e-business and a proliferation of electronic devices in our society indicate the need for students to develop a detailed range of computing skills and techniques. The course will develop the knowledge, understanding and skills of students in the field of computing, that are essential for successful performance in the modern workplace. The HND programme is an equivalent to a 2nd year of a UK University Degree. This course leads to a recognised qualification which is accepted by several universities for direct entry into the final year of a Degree program. Structure: The full programme consists of the following which will be studied full time throughout the two years. Unit 1 Business Skills for e-commerce Unit 2 Computer Systems Unit 3 Employability and Professional Development Unit 4 Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation Unit 6 - Management in IT Unit 14 - Website Design Unit 16 - e-commerce Technologies Unit 18 - Procedural Programming Unit 29 - e-commerce Strategy Unit 30 - Information Systems in Organisations Unit 32 - Quality Systems in IT Unit 33 - Data Analysis and Design Unit 34 - Data Structures and Algorithms Unit 43 - Networking Infrastructure Unit 44 - Local Area Networking Technologies Unit 50 - Work-based Experience * Modules may be subject to change Page 17 of 32
Assessment is through the submission of assignments, project or examination at the end of each Unit. Assessment is subject to internal and external verification of the unit s submitted, all units must be passed to achieve the full qualification. This is a full time programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specifications Page 18 of 32
BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Business (QCF) Awarding Body : Pearson Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 4 Credit Value: 120 Credits Minimum Empire College London Prospectus Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 18 and above. There are no defined entry requirements set by the Awarding Body. The College makes admission decisions based on students potential to complete the program. Applicants would benefit mostly from this program if they hold one or more of the following: a BTEC Level 3 qualification or other related level 3 equivalent qualifications an Access to Higher Education Certificate received from an approved Further Education institution related work experience Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector. IELTS score of 5.5 with the minimum of 5.0 being awarded on individual sections, or demonstrate capability in English to a standard commensurate to this. Course Information: The HNC in Business course covers a broad range of business and management modules from information systems to market economics and financial decision making. This means that you will have a wealth of knowledge to take in to your employment or to enable you to carry on to a degree at University. The HNC programme is an equivalent to a 1st year of a UK University Degree. This course leads to a recognised qualification which is accepted by several universities for direct entry onto the 2nd year of a Degree programme. Structure The full programme consists of the following Units which will be studied full time throughout the year. Unit 1 - Business Environment Unit 2 - Managing Financial Resources and Decisions Unit 3 - Organisations and Behaviour Unit 4 - Marketing Principles Unit 13 - Personal and Professional Development Unit 16 - Managing Communications Knowledge and Information Unit 26 - Business Law Unit 8 - Research Project * Modules may be subject to change Assessment is through the submission of assignments, project or presentation at the end of each Unit. All assessments are externally marked and all units must be passed to achieve this qualification. This is a fulltime programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specifications Page 19 of 32
BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Business (Management) (QCF) Awarding Body: Pearson Duration: 24 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 5 Credit Value: 240 Credits Minimum Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 18 and above. There are no defined entry requirements set by the Awarding Body. The College makes admission decisions based on students potential to complete the program. Applicants would benefit mostly from this program if they hold one or more of the following: a BTEC Level 3 qualification or other related level 3 equivalent qualifications an Access to Higher Education Certificate received from an approved Further Education institution related work experience Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector. IELTS score of 5.5 with the minimum of 5.0 being awarded on individual sections, or demonstrate capability in English to a standard commensurate to this. Course Information: The HND in Business (Management) course covers a broad range of business and management modules from information systems to market economics and financial decision making. This means that you will have a wealth of knowledge to take in to your employment or to enable you to carry on and top up your HND to a degree at University. An HND in Business (Management) is a perfect introduction to working in financial services, business administration or a career in management. The HND programme is an equivalent to a 2nd year of a UK University Degree. This course leads to a recognised qualification which is accepted by several universities for direct entry into the final year of a Degree program. Structure The full programme consists of the following Units which will be studied full time throughout the two years. Unit 1 - Business Environment Unit 2 - Managing Financial Resources and Decisions Unit 3 - Organisations and Behaviour Unit 4 - Marketing Principles Unit 5 - Aspects of Contract and Negligence for Business Unit 6 - Business Decision Making Unit 7 - Business Strategy Unit 8 - Research Project Unit 13 - Personal and Professional Development Unit 14 - Working with and Leading People Unit 15 - Managing Business Activities to Achieve Results Unit 16 - Managing Communications Knowledge and Information Unit 26 - Business Law Unit 32 - Quality Management in Business Unit 34 - Operations Management in Business Unit 42 - Project Management for Business * Modules may be subject to change Page 20 of 32
Assessment is through the submission of assignments, project or examination at the end of each Unit. Assessment is subject to internal and external verification of the unit s submitted, all units must be passed to achieve the full qualification. This is a full time programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specifications Page 21 of 32
BTEC Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership (QCF) Awarding Body : Pearson Duration: 12 Months Intakes: February and September QCF Level: 7 Credit Value: 120 Credits Minimum Empire College London Prospectus Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 19 and above. The Edexcel BTEC Level 7 Professional Qualification in Strategic Management and Leadership has been developed to aid those wishing to follow a short study programme that is relevant to their working situation or future employment. As such, entry requirements are flexible and seek to accommodate a wide range of students. A UK Bachelors degree from a recognised institution or equivalent or HND qualifications Applications from mature students may be accepted where relevant work experience is being undertaken, subject to an initial assessment IELTS score of 6.5 or an equivalent, or demonstrate capability in English to a standard commensurate to this. Course Information: BTEC Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership (QCF) provides specialist work-related programmes of study that covers the key knowledge, understanding and practical skills required in the management sector. This qualification offers an engaging programme for higher education and adult students who are clear about the area of management they wish to enter or progress within. The qualification also provides a suitable qualification for those wishing to change career or move into employment in management following a career break. This course leads to a recognised professional management qualification which is accepted by some universities for direct entry into the final year of an MBA. Structure: The following units will be covered throughout the duration of this course: Unit 1 - Developing Strategic Management and Leadership Skills Unit 14 - Strategic Supply Chain Management & Logistics Unit 16 - Research Methods for Strategic Managers Unit 9 - Managing Corporate Responsibility Unit 11 - Strategic Quality and Systems Management Unit 3 - Strategic Change Management Unit 10 - Strategic Human Resource Management Unit 7 - Strategic Marketing Management Unit 2 - Professional Development for Strategic Managers Unit 12 - Strategic Planning Unit 13 - Managing Financial Principles and Techniques *Optional units may be subject to change depending on demand. Assessment is through the submission of assignments, project or examination at the end of each Unit. Assessment is subject to internal and external verification of the unit s submitted, all units must be passed to achieve the full qualification. This is a fulltime programme and students are required to attend 15 21 hours of supervised study per week. Course Specification Page 22 of 32
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Applying to study at Empire College London Students under Tier4 Points Based System Empire College London does not accept any students under the age of 18 Term Dates: Empire College London runs 2 semesters per year: February / September. To secure a place please apply as early as possible. Students who are applying from overseas and need to apply for Entry Clearance, we suggest that you apply at least 6-8 weeks before the semester start date. Overseas students must provide all the information listed on the application form including evidence of their financial ability to pay for their tuition fees and living expenses in the UK. Step 1: Complete the Application Form Attach official copies of your education certificates. Attach two passport size photographs. International students in the UK are required to produce a progress report and attendance confirmation from their previous institute of study/sponsor. If certificates are not in English then certified translated copies should be sent. (Your certificates should be provided in both the original language and in English and must be officially translated). International students must provide evidence of the Secured English Language Test approved by the Home Office - UKVI. All students must read the Terms & Conditions on the Application form before applying. Send your application to: Empire College London London Branch Forest House 16-20 Clements Rd Ilford, Essex, IG1 1BA E -mail: administrator@ecl.ac Step 2: Assessment Once the application is received all documents are assessed. Educational documents are assessed and verified through awarding body and UK NARIC for comparison against the UKs qualification framework and to determine the right level of course for the students. Depending on the outcome of the assessment at this stage students are advised about the level of course that can be offered. Work experience related documents are verified by contacting the issuing authority. The applicant will be called for a Skype interview (for Overseas Applications)/face to face interview (for in-country Applications). Successful applicants will receive a Conditional or Unconditional Offer letter. Page 24 of 32
The Conditions that the student needs to meet will be stated on the conditional letter before a CAS Number (for international students) can be issued. Step 3: Course Fees Payment Payment of the first year tuition fees for the chosen course [or as indicated in the conditional offer letter] this can be in the form of cheque/demand draft or bank transfer (payable to Empire College London) within 28 days from the date of offer. Students are requested not to pay by cash to any ECL representative in their home country in respect of admin/tuition fees. Any payments made to any ECL representatives should be made in the name of EMPIRE COLLEGE LONDON LTD. ECL will not be held responsible if a student makes a payment to any third party. Admission will not be confirmed if the fee is not paid. Step 4: Applying for Entry Clearance International Students requiring a Visa in order to study in the UK should then apply for Entry Clearance using CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies); A CAS is not a document but a unique reference number issued by a Tier4 Sponsor. The student will need to present the CAS Number to the British Embassy or High Commission in their home country to apply for Entry Clearance along with all required documentation and required application form. Please visit the UKVI Website for further information on how to apply under the new Tier 4 Points Based System. Any false or forged documents found by the UK Embassy or High Commission may result in a 10 year ban from reapplying for any type of UK Visa, and may also result in a criminal conviction. Step 5: Application Outcome Student should apply for Entry Clearance at least 6-8 weeks prior to the commencement date of their course. The student must inform the College about the outcome of their Entry Clearance application within 7 days of the visa issued date. Successful applicants must inform the college for their arrival date. If entry clearance/further leave to remain is refused, students must contact the ECL Administrative Department via email: administrator@ecl.ac, as soon as possible with the relevant refusal documents from the British Embassy / High commission / UKVI. Students are advised to familiarize themselves with the ECL Refund Policy. Students must be aware that the conditional offer letter cannot be used for VISA PURPOSES. Student are advised to clearly state on the Application Form and be sure which branch they are applying for as they will not be able to transfer at a later date on the same Entry Clearance/Further Leave to Remain. Page 25 of 32
UK/EU Students Student Finance Applications Procedures Empire College London in association with Student Finance England offer support towards living costs and tuition fees. The student finance available depends on circumstances, course and study location. The main types of finance are Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans (which have to be paid back) as well as grants and bursaries (which doesn t need to be paid back). Extra support is available from Student Finance for those with special circumstances, such as children or adult dependants, or a disability, long-term health condition, mental-health condition or a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. Student Finance England is a service provided by the Student Loans Company. SFE provide financial support on behalf of the UK Government to students from England entering higher education in the UK. Course Available for Student Finance Applications: BTEC Level 5 HND Diploma in Business (Management) (QCF) Duration: 2 Years QCF Level: 5 Awarding Body: Pearson Course Sessions per year: February; September Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training Duration: 1 Year QCF Level: 5 Awarding Body: Pearson Course Sessions per year: September To apply please follow the steps given below: Step 1: Complete the Application Form Attach official copies of your education certificates and CV. Attach two passport size photographs. If your education certificates are not in English then translated copies should be sent. (Your certificates should be provided in both the original language and in English and must be officially translated). All students must read the Terms & Conditions on the Application form before applying. Page 26 of 32
Send your application to: Empire College London London Branch Forest House 16-20 Clements Rd Ilford, Essex, IG1 1BA E -mail: student.finance@ecl.ac Step 2: Assessment Once the application is received all documents are assessed. Educational documents are assessed and verified through awarding body and UK NARIC for comparison against the UKs qualification framework and to determine the right level of course for the students. Depending on the outcome of the assessment at this stage students are advised about the level of course that can be offered. Work experience related documents are verified by contacting the issuing authority. As part of the assessment the students will also be called for face to face interview and Literacy and Numeracy Test. Step 3: Enrolment Student who been accepted on to the program of study will be notified of enrolment/induction process. Step 4: Applying Apply for Tuition Fee Loan through Student Finance at https://www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance. Help for filling up the application form is available at http://www.slc.co.uk/. Please Note: Empire College London currently has only two courses designated under Student Finance England. Students who wish to study other offered courses will be required to pay the appropriate tuition fees before enrolment. Useful Links: Student Finance Overview Login or register for Student Finance Department for Business Innovation & Skills HEFCE Register of HE Providers Student Loans Company Last updated and reviewed: December 2014 Page 27 of 32
Refund Policy Empire College London has a fair and transparent policy on Refunds and College transfers. This policy provides guidelines as to when Empire College London can refund a deposit payment or course fees. It will also offer advice about the type of documents that are needed for a refund application to be processed successfully. The College has a non refundable Enrolment/Registration fee of 300 GBP. Empire College London makes refunds only under exceptional circumstances. Full refunds will be given to students if the College is unable to offer an advertised course on the advertised start date or within six months thereafter due to insufficient student applications or for any other reason. A refund will be given to the students who have applied from overseas where the visa refusal is caused by fault of the college. Refunds will NOT be given under the following circumstances: Once a CAS has been issued, the tuition fees will not be refunded if the student changes his/her or mind about applying for FLR or Entry Clearance. If the FLR or Entry Clearance application is refused due to fraudulent documents that have been used in the current or any previous visa application, the college will not refund any fees already paid. No refunds will be made if the FLR or Entry Clearance visa application has been refused due to the nonsubmission of the listed documentation stated on the CAS or if the student/guardian has withdrawn the required funds which were considered when issuing the CAS. Refunds will not be made, if the FLR or Entry Clearance visa application is refused due to insufficient funds. Refunds will not be made if the FLR or Entry Clearance visa application is refused due to the UKVI not being satisfied that the applicant is a genuine student or the applicant cannot speak English to the required standard at the interview stage. Change of Course: If a student wishes to transfer to a new course then new course fees will apply. Previous course fees will not be transferred for the new course. (Note: some cases may be different to others). Please note: If a student has attended the college for some time and then stops attending for various reasons he/she will not be entitled to a refund. Refund Procedures: Applications for a refund must be made in writing using the appropriate forms which must be signed by the student within 14 days of the refusal date. In case of visa refusal, the original visa refusal letter, copy of refusal stamp on the passport and any other letter from the college must be enclosed with the refund application form. If students wish to appeal against the refusal decision, then Empire College London will keep the tuition fees which have already been paid until the decision of the appeal has been made. If the original decision of refusal is not overturned the student must inform Empire College London no later than two months after the appeal hearing date in order to claim their refund. This will be decided based on the reason of the appeal decision. Please Note: A minimum period of six to eight weeks is required to process a refund. Page 28 of 32
A student, who has been refused a refund, can make an appeal to the management in writing. The decision of the management will be final. Last updated and reviewed: December 2014 Page 29 of 32
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Directions to Empire College London Address: Empire College London Forest House 16-20 Clements Rd Ilford, Essex, IG1 1BA E -mail: info@empirecollegelondon.co.uk Empire College London Prospectus From Heathrow (Greater London): Take the underground to Holborn tube station. Change at Holborn onto the Central Line (eastbound). Travel on the Central Line to Liverpool Street Station. From Liverpool street station take the overhead train to Ilford. Empire College London is situated on Clements Road which is a 3 minute walk from Ilford train station. From Gatwick Airport (Greater London): Take the train to Victoria Station from Gatwick Airport. At Victoria, change on to the underground. Take the Circle line (eastbound) to Liverpool Street Station. From Liverpool street station take the overhead train to Ilford. Empire College London is situated on Clements Road which is a 3 minute walk from Ilford train station. Useful Links: www.tfl.gov.uk www.nationalrail.co.uk Page 31 of 32
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