From the science of space, to the history of formal gardens, the Institute of Continuing Education has courses to suit a wide range of interests, and the good news is that there are still places available for studies beginning in October 2013.

Now in its 140th year, the Institute offers part-time and flexible study leading to University of Cambridge undergraduate-level awards: Certificates, Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas. Though some are now fully booked, places remain on several courses, including the Undergraduate Certificate in Astronomy. Students on this course are given access to planetarium software and time at the University's Institute of Astronomy for its evening sessions.

A combination of  weekend classes, the study of maps and documents, and first-hand investigation on field trips, will enable students to explore Landscape History and Archaeology or Garden History through either Part I or Part II, respectively, of the Undergraduate Certificate in Historic Environment.

New to the programme this year is the Undergraduate Certificate in Philosophy, which provides an introduction to metaphysics, logic and the philosophy of language, and ethics. Students will explore some of the classic philosophical questions, such as the nature of reality, how we should treat one another, what it is possible to know, and what it takes to be a person.

Also new is the Undergraduate Certificate in Evolutionary Biology. This gives students a chance to study the theory of evolution through the unique collections held at the University, and would be a natural selection for any Charles Darwin enthusiast.

The course includes practical classes that allow students to carry out their own data collection and practise simple data-processing skills. Where possible, the practical classes make use of local Cambridge resources such as the University Botanic Garden and the Department of Zoology. For more information, log on to the website where course director Dr Ed Turner gives an online taster session.

Other subjects on offer in October include Archaeology, Coaching, English Literature, History of Art, International Development, Local History and the Study of Religion.

The Institute of Continuing Education has about 5,000 student enrolments per year, running a full programme of short and part-time courses for the general public, courses for professional development, as well as running the University's International Summer Schools. It is based at Madingley Hall, a 16th-century country house on the outskirts of Cambridge.

The Institute plays a major part in the University's commitment to widening its accessibility, community engagement and lifelong learning, and offers a generous range of bursaries to its students.

For more information visit: http://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/awards

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