Early starters race in

TWO new universities have swelled numbers on some courses by offering early entry for students seeking to escape next year's tuition fee charges.

The University of Central England received applications from nearly 120 students seeking places on engineering degree courses starting in January and ending a term later than normal. It offered places to just over half of the applicants, a handful short of its target of 75 extra students.

At De Montfort University 60 students opted to start degree courses in various subjects in February rather than wait until October. Of those taking places, 18 are part-time and eight have opted for joint honours. Of new entrants, 18 will study humanities subjects; five agriculture and horticulture; 17 health and community studies and 11 physical education. There were about 800 inquiries and 100 applications for the February start.