UCD launched its modular BA programme 10 years ago. Since then, over 600 students have graduated from the programme and a further 650 are on their way. Those in a hurry can go "fast track", which means graduating within four years. This is a heavy commitment and involves attending lectures four nights a week. But modular students are made of stern stuff, says programme director Dr Alan Harrison.

"I am constantly amazed by the commitment of the modular students. Many travel long distances to get here, many come here after work and many have taken on the course without any history of study at third level. But their belief in what they are doing seems to drive them in a way you rarely see with daytime undergraduates."

But while the system is geared to cope with "fast trackers", the whole idea of the modular structure is to allow students to complete a degree at their own pace. They can take as long as they like to finish and can opt in and out depending on other commitments. The overall drop-out rate from the programme is small and the exam results significantly better than those of daytime undergraduates. The failure rate among day students is 10 to 15 per cent compared with around 5 per cent for modular students.

Potential students have to be aged 20 or over to apply and there is no upper age limit. UCD endeavours to keep the programme "open entry" which means that those without Leaving Cert or matriculation can apply on grounds of maturity provided they are over 23.

The modular BA does not come cheap. It costs £814 per module yet UCD is still losing money on the programme. "The reason for this is that the HEA grant makes no per capita provision that would cater for the indirect costs of the programme," Alan Harrison says. "We are dismayed at the lack of recognition from State funding bodies and we feel that unless this very useful addition to adult/continuing education receives support, we will have to review what we are doing for economic reasons."

Application for the course is through the CAO and the closing date is February 1st. For information about the course phone (01) 706 8241.