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Short courses & CPD

Winter University

A Winter University course will boost your confidence, may help you change career and could be your first step towards gaining a degree.

What is Winter University?  Our courses  FAQs

Applications are now open

Our courses

Find your Winter University course below.

Find a course

Contact us

If you have any questions, please contact us.

winter.university@tees.ac.uk

What is Winter University?

Winter University could be for you if you would like to:

  • return to study after taking a break from education
  • gain the qualification you need for a promotion
  • change career direction
  • enjoy the personal satisfaction of learning
  • meet the entry requirements for your course
  • revise the fundamental subjects in preparation for your degree studies.

Read the FAQs

How to apply

Click apply now on the course page. You can apply for multiple certificate courses on one application form (up to a maximum of 30 credits). Courses appear as University Certificate of Credit on the apply online tab. If you would like to change your selection or add additional courses after you have submitted your application, please email winter.university@tees.ac.uk

Minimum requirements

As some of our Winter University courses are delivered online it is necessary that you have access to a computer and are comfortable using an online learning platform. You also need to have a strong internet connection. In addition to this, each course may have minimum hardware or software requirements, or equipment that you should have access to in order to fully engage with the course. Please check the 'entry requirements' tab on each course page before you apply.

What can I study?

Choose from a range of courses across many subject areas. Whatever your interests and ambitions, we have something for you.

We have a range of accredited courses for you to choose from - if you complete an accredited course, you receive a certificate of credit.

What support can I get?

If you choose to study an accredited course, you can access Student Services and receive support with financial matters, health and wellbeing, careers and counselling.
More about student support

If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty and require support to attend a Winter University course, please email winteruniversity@tees.ac.uk.
More information about Disability Services.

How much will my course cost?

Each course costs £50.

Fees will be reimbursed if:

  • you pass your module and go on to enrol on a course of over 60 credits in September 2025 or January 2026.
  • you are a current Teesside University student and you successfully complete your Winter University course.

Age restriction

Due to the content and delivery of our Winter University courses, it is advised that applicants are aged 16+ at the time of enrolment.

If you are applying for an online course and are under the age of 18 at the time of enrolment, you must provide a completed parental consent form. You can download the parental consent form and send to winter.university@tees.ac.uk after you submit your application.

Winter University on-campus courses

Accounting Essentials for Business Success, Certificate

You will gain an understanding of key financial statements as well as budgeting, and develop an appreciation of the impact of events and decisions on the profitability of any organisation, whether large or small.

 

An Introduction to Fashion Styling, Certificate

You are introduced to the principles of fashion styling. You explore the practical representation of fashion and investigate approaches to fashion styling through a fashion editorial and/or a styling portfolio.

 

An Introduction to Fine Art, Certificate

Fine art is a creative exploration of communication and making, by interpreting information and the world around us. You follow the process from interpreting ideas into fine art practice through visualising concepts into art works and communicating an interpretation of the medium, material and context. You are encouraged to explore a range of ideas, processes and methods while completing a negotiated project. No previous knowledge is assumed.

 

An Introduction to Graphic Design and Illustration, Certificate

Graphic design and illustration are the creative visualisation of communication, encompassing the interpretation of persuasion, education, information and entertainment through text and image.

 

An Introduction to Interior Design, Certificate

Interior design encompasses function, fashion, colour, light, materials and decoration. You are introduced to the key principles and language of interior design – from interpreting the brief to realising and communicating creative ideas.

 

An Introduction to Working with People with Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, Certificate

This module is designed as an introduction to the area of Mental Health and Learning Disabilities and is suitable for anyone who has an interest in increasing their awareness of this area of healthcare.

 

Exploring Psychology, Certificate

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. Explore the ways that psychologists study how people think, remember, develop and behave. Learn how psychologists apply their knowledge to understand, predict and sometimes control, human behaviour.

 

Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation, Certificate

This module provides you with an introduction to forensic and crime scene investigation as it applies to the criminal justice system through an understanding of processes and personnel involved from crime scene through to court.

 

Introduction to Aviation Management, Certificate

The aviation industry is one of the most diverse, competitive, and resilient industries, responsible for the movement of goods, services, and people, globally every day via a network of air corridors specifically routed to meet demand.

 

Introduction to Creative Writing, Certificate

Have you ever wanted to write a novel or short story? This course offers individual and group writing activities to broaden your awareness of the approaches, techniques and forms available to writers.

 

Introduction to Criminal Law, Certificate

Perhaps the best known aspect of the legal system, criminal law presents an interesting and challenging area of study. This is an exciting introduction to criminal law – covering the law of theft, murder, manslaughter and non-fatal offences.

 

Introduction to Criminology, Certificate

Why do people commit crime? You focus on two main areas of criminology – criminological theory and criminal justice. You explore why people commit crime and examine the different groups involved in crime, followed by an overview of the criminal justice system in England and Wales.

 

Introduction to Digital Marketing, Certificate

Gain vital insights into the core principles, concepts and practical applications utilised within the fastest growing area of marketing; digital marketing. You engage with principles of marketing planning within a digital context, including a range of paid, earned and owned marketing channels and techniques.

 

Introduction to Film and TV Production, Certificate

Through a dynamic and exciting learning experience, you create and develop a portfolio of developmental content and learn through doing.

 

Introduction to Food & Nutrition, Certificate

Food is complicated. We are bombarded with information about the fat and sugar content of food, its vitamins and minerals and the claimed benefits of new products.

 

Introduction to People Management, Certificate

One of the most important jobs of a manager is to lead, motivate and inspire others.

 

Introduction to Photography, Certificate

Whether you are new to photography or want to improve your existing skills, this course develops your ability to create and share photographs of which you can be proud. You develop your technical and visual skills as you learn the principles of photography and image editing.

 

Understanding Children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties, Certificate

You consider what it means to be a child growing up in a challenging environment, including homes where there is poverty, mental illness, domestic violence, abuse and neglect.

 
 

Winter University on-line courses

Animation and Visual Effects (Online), Certificate

This is an introduction to animation and visual effects if you have little or no previous experience. You explore 3D animation and visual effects process: animation, modelling, texturing, lighting, rendering and compositing.

 

Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Foundations (Online), Certificate

You explore core artificial intelligence (AI) and data science concepts and tools, focusing on real-life scenarios with practical exposure to relevant software. You cover various topics such as preparing and working with data, data analysis, data visualisation, and problem solving with AI.

 

Business Information Technology (Online), Certificate

Pairing business expertise with technology can be a powerful combination in a business-oriented career. Business Technology will allow you to identify business challenges, find technological solutions.

 

Computer Sciences: Cyber Security (Online), Certificate

Cyber security is now a critical part of all areas of industry. You explore a range of information and computer security issues. This course is suitable for non-specialists.

 

Computer Sciences: Programming (Online), Certificate

If you have little or no experience of any programming, you are introduced to the core structures needed for programming. You develop your programming skills using tools that are easily available, easy to use, and familiar to anyone who has used a computer.

 

Digital Forensic Analysis and Cyber Investigation (Online), Certificate

You discover what it is like to be a digital forensic practitioner and the role they play in criminal investigations where digital devices have been involved. You explore the concept of digital evidence: what it is, where it can come from, and how to analyse it.

 

Games Design and Development (Online), Certificate

You are introduced to Unreal Engine with a focus on level design and effects to create a stimulating and aesthetic environment. You understand the general production pipeline processes and become confident in creating your own scenes to interact with.

 

Introduction to Concept Art (Online), Certificate

Had a good idea for a game, animation, film or television programme and didn’t know how to develop it? This course helps you to explore your creative skills and you learn how to take your initial idea and develop it into final images suitable for presentation.

 

Mathematics (Intermediate - Online), Certificate

This course helps you into the first year of an undergraduate degree at Teesside University that includes level 3 mathematics as an entry requirement. You study algebra, trigonometry and calculus.

 
 

Why I studied Winter University

How Ruth went from studying a Teesside University Winter University course, to a degree, to a PhD.

Frequently asked questions

Can I study more than one course?

Yes, you can complete up to three courses as long as they do not run at the same time.

I must complete a Winter University course as part of my offer. Do I have to apply for this?

Yes, all applicants that have to complete one of our Summer or Winter courses as part of their conditional offer must fill in the application form.

I have a conditional offer - do I have to pay?

No, applicants who are required to complete a Summer or Winter course as part of their conditional offer to enrol onto a degree programme with Teesside University are not required to pay.

Do you get UCAS points for completing these courses?

No, they do not have UCAS points attached. These are standalone courses that have 10 Level 4 / Level 3 University credits attached, which is something completely different to UCAS points.

Do I get a certificate at the end of the course?

Yes, once assessment marks have been agreed by the assessment board you will receive a certificate in the post. A digital record of progress will also be available.

Can I study online?

Some courses are offered via online learning. These all have (online) in the title and are listed separately from the on-campus courses.

How do I add additional modules to my application?

Please email winter.university@tees.ac.uk to make changes to your application.

Do I have to attend all lessons?

Due to the intensity of the course, you are expected to attend all lessons. We advise missing no more than one lesson.

Will I get a student card?

Only new students on a on campus course need to upload a photograph. If you are a current student, you can use you current TUSC card. If you are applying for an online course, you will not receive a student card. Students studying an online course, that live locally, can request a TUSC card to access the library.

I am a current student, do I have to pay?

Yes, current students are required to pay for the course. If you are successful in passing the course assessment you will be refunded the course fees. Refunds are only issued after the assessment grades have been approved by the assessment board. Refunds for Winter University are normally processed in May and Summer University Refunds are in October.

Where do I go for enrolment?

Enrolment details will be sent to you at least a week before the course starts.

Can I attend the first lesson without paying to see if I like the subject?

Unfortunately not, we require payment for courses at least 72 hours in advance of you starting.

Is there any funding available to pay the course fees?

Our winter courses are not covered by student finance and so funding is not available. Courses are free if it is part of your conditional offer. Course fees will be refunded if you are current student and pass the course, or are an applicant and enrol on a degree programme worth 60 credits or more in the following year.

I don't like the course I've chosen, can I get a refund?

Once you have attended your first lesson refunds are not granted. It may be possible to transfer onto another course. Please contact us to discuss.

I would like to withdraw from my course, how do I do this?

Please email us first and then complete the intention to withdraw/interrupt your studies form on E Vision.

I have forgotten my password, can it be reset?

Please contact ithelp@tees.ac.uk and include your student number.

I am studying an online course, and getting an authentication issue error message, what should I do?

Please follow the instructions provided as part of enrolment, if you still encounter issues take a screen shot of the error message and forward it to ithelp@tees.ac.uk.

Do I have to have IELTS?

If you are an international applicant that has not studied at a UK university before you are required to provide proof of English language proficiency. This can be IELTS 5.5, WAEC C6 or equivalent qualifications.

Can you help with Visa applications?

Unfortunately we are unable to provide support with Visa applications or provide CAS numbers or letters of admission for these courses.

What next?

Studying doesn't have to stop when your course ends. We hope our Winter University courses inspire you to continue your studies.

Book on one of our open days to find out what you can do after your course has finished.

More about our open days

Changes to courses

Teesside University reserves the right to change the advertised programme without notice. Running or continuing any course or class depends on having enough students enrolled and attending.

Disclaimer

This is a general guide to Winter University and its courses and considerable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of information provided. Applicants are advised that developments after the guide has been published and the programmes have been completed may lead to omissions and inaccuracies in the course guide, for which the University disclaims legal liability. The information given in the course guide does not impose on the University any obligation to provide or to continue to provide, any course, module, tuition, assessment or amenity described in the course guide. For example, the University is under no obligation to offer a programme which has enrolled a small number of students. Similarly, the University retains the right to make reasonable changes in the curriculum content, method of teaching, form of assessment and location of some or all elements of a course. However, as far as possible, the University will consult the applicants or students affected before implementing significant changes; and although the University will not accept liability for any disruption to applicants or students caused by circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to fires, strikes (of its own or other employees), insurrection or riots, embargoes, requirements or regulations of any civil or military authority (as 'event of force majeure'), the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the impact of such interference with its ability to provide educational or other services.

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