FETAC this, grant that, I'm lost

[kieraskelly]

Hello:)

My name is Kiera and I'm confused. I have an honours degree in pharmacology. I graduated in 2007 and have since been unable to get work in my degree. I would like to change career and study physiotherapy. However I am unemployed and unable to pay the cost. I am 25 so technically I qualify for the back to education grant but because I would like to return to study another primary degree I don't qualify. Are there exceptions made to this rule or is it just tough luck?

I thought if I applied to study a diploma or higher certificate in massage therapy that would make me a more suitable candidate for application onto a physiotherapy course. I have a friend who studied a primary degree and qualified for the grant to study a plc course in a different beckground. Is this possible for me having only recently signing up for job seekers benefit? I know there is some time limit of about 18 months unemployed, is this flexible in light of the current economic climate?

I would also like to know how it works studying physiotherapy in the UK? I have heard of people studying physiotherapy for free so to speak and the NHS pays for their course? This means you must work for them for two years or something similar?

In summary, I'm a graduate of science, unemployed and looking to further education for a change in career. However I need funding to do so. Any advise is most appreciated. Thank you!!