ANDREW Stephenson, Pendle’s MP, has welcomed Government plans to make it easier for universities to offer accelerated degree courses and urged young people to put their thoughts forward.

A government consultation has been established to examine whether more accelerated degree courses should be encouraged.

Current and prospective students and graduated are being encouraged to share their views on shorter degree courses.

Accelerated degrees see students studying intensively, completing an undergraduate degree in two years rather than three.

This could offer savings on tuition fees and living costs.

Mr Stephenson said: “Accelerated degrees can be a good choice for many students and I welcome the chance for young people thinking about going to university have to take part in the consultation and share their thoughts about shorter degrees.

“It is vital young people get the skills they need to prosper.

“Introducing different types of degree programme will make it easier than ever to gain a higher education qualification.”