Mature — And Black

In fields like Computer Science, where retention and achievement can be lower for these groups, institutions are re-evaluating degree classifications and graduate destinations to identify where talent is being lost. 4. Socio-Economic Impact

Qualitative studies suggest that the dominant narrative of university "belonging" is often tailored to young, residential students. Mature, part-time Black students may feel peripherally positioned within the sector. mature and black

Changes in higher education funding have significantly reduced the number of part-time students. Mature and Black students are more likely to study part-time due to work or family commitments, making them more vulnerable to less generous funding arrangements . In fields like Computer Science, where retention and

The failure to adequately support mature and Black students is often framed as a "waste of talent" that the broader economy cannot afford. Research emphasizes that education for these groups is frequently seen as a tool for social or economic liberation, making their success a matter of social justice as much as academic policy. The failure to adequately support mature and Black

To address these gaps, many institutions have implemented "Access and Participation Plans":

Schools like the University of Nottingham monitor their intake of BME and mature students to ensure their population reflects or exceeds local demographics.