returning to college to finish degree...

if i wished to return to university (NUI) to complete a degree that i failed to complete in the past, what usually happens in this situation? the last time i attended was in the academic year 2003/2004, which was the third year of a four year degree programme. I was a mature student at the time (just) and would be returning as one (obviously).

there were genuine reasons for leaving and for not having returnd before now.

Has too much time passed at this stage?

I have a meeting arranged in the university this week but would like opinions on this.

Thanks,
pcocp.

Re: returnig to college to finish degree...

Very hard one to answer really. It depends on the changes that the programme has undergone. Some universities for example have moved to a european credit based system instead of the traditional system. Most universities will allow a student to apply for accreditation for prior learning which may exempt you from parts of the course. I think you've already done the right thing and requested a meeting. Best of luck returning to college.

Good luck with the meeting....
As part of the QA

Sorry...pressed send before I could finish my reply.
Here goes again...
As part of the QA requirement at tertiary level, courses have to undergo regular reviews and revalidation by an external panel. This happens every 4-6 years. So, I think your chance largely depend on (a) whether they are still busy with the same version of the course and (b) the types of changes that have been made to the course if it has been reviewed and changed in the meantime. I would suggest at your meeting that you request a copy of the syllabus document for the course (both courses if it has revalidated in the interim) so that you can study the content for yourself. You may be able to request partial credit for some courses, but this largely depends on departmental/university policy.