Weymouth College is going by the book - after being included in an education directory for the county.

The 65-page Higher Education Directory for Dorset contains a wealth of information about the many courses available to people living in the county.

Colleges and universities across the South West have come together to produce the invaluable guide for anyone considering higher education.

Susie Palmer, press officer for Weymouth College, said: "The directory contains a wealth of information about the many courses available to people living in the county.

"It is primarily aimed at mature students who are thinking about undertaking higher education and, as well as course listings, offers details about entry requirements, financial and personal support and contacts."

The partners involved in producing the directory include Weymouth College, Kingston Maurward College, Bourne-mouth University, Exeter University and the Open University.

Paul Luker, pro-vice chancellor of Bournemouth University, the spokesman for all of the partners, said: "There are many opportunities to take higher education courses in a number of places across Dorset in a whole range of topics and subjects. There are also many different ways of progressing on to higher education - such as through your local adult or community education classes or through your local college - and sometimes it is possible to study from home.

"Different programmes and sessions - some part-time, some full-time - are also available.

"Details of some of the higher education qualifications available in this area, ranging from foundation degrees, HNCs, HNDs, as well as degree courses and postgraduate study are offered in the booklet.

"If you are worried about money to help you study, or have questions about what other support is available for you, the student support section gives you the right number to call to receive up- to-the-minute information on these topics."

All of the partners involved in the production of the booklet run taster days and information sessions on their courses.

Mr Luker added: "We hope that the booklet will give people a clearer idea of what is on offer and how to find out more - and that they will become lifelong learners in Dorset."

Copies of the Higher Education Directory for Dorset are available from the partner colleges and universities or from Sandy Evans at Weymouth College on (01305) 208736.