The University's Step Up to Higher Education course is a free 10-week programme designed for those who may not have followed a traditional academic route.
It equips learners, of any age, with the skills and confidence needed to progress onto degree-level study, covering everything from academic writing and research to preparing for lectures and assignments.
For Michael Berrisford, 45, from Burslem, the programme was the catalyst for a career transformation.
After spending more than a decade working as a security guard, Michael progressed into HR roles and made the decision to return to education and build up his legal knowledge.
Despite balancing a full-time job and family life, Michael completed the Step Up course before enrolling onto the LLB (Hons) Law degree. Having graduated with first class honours, he has secured a new role with Cheadle-based Klarius, where he is putting his employment law skills into practice.
Speaking at his graduation last week, Michael said: "Being out of education for over 20 years then going back into it is quite daunting but Step Up gives you the foundation to be able to go into your degree.
"The lecturers were absolutely fantastic and give you all the support that you need. You're not treated differently because of your age and you get a personalised experience – you are not just a number."
During his studies, Michael also became a student representative for Law and helped re-establish the University's Law Society. He added: "I never imagined whatsoever that I would be graduating with a first! It goes to show that hard work really does pay off.
“Whatever you want to do, do it. Don't listen to anybody else. Don't listen to the naysayers. You know what you're capable of doing, and believe me, you're capable of doing even more than what you think.”
Jonathan Hackney-Dubois, 40, from Norton Heights, also credits the Step Up course with giving him the confidence to pursue a new career.
After more than 10 years working at bet365 then as a massage therapist, Jonathan discovered an interest in social work through conversations with a client.
"I had never thought about going back into education," he said. "Then I found the Step Up course and thought, 'If I don't do it now, I'll never do it'.
“It was very nerve-wracking. I have never really seen myself as an academic person, especially when it came to academic writing. But the Step Up course really helped build my confidence. It's one of the best decisions I've ever made.”
Jonathan went on to complete a BA (Hons) Social Work degree and has secured a role with Royal Stoke University Hospital's Mental Health Liaison Team, where he completed his final placement.
"The practical side of the course has really helped to make me a social worker," he said. "I just love it. Every day is different and I actually feel like I'm helping people, which is what I've always wanted to do."
The Step Up to Higher Education programme is open to anyone considering returning to education, whether they are looking to retrain, pursue a new career or develop new skills – apply now for a September start.