MORE than 27,000 perspective students are competing for 4,000 places at the University of Central Lancashire.

And Blackburn College’s University Centre, which was granted 299 additional places, still has places available for September.

Nationally the University and College Admissions System has seen a 11.6 per cent increase in applications from last year.

But the University of Central Lancashire, which has a base in Burnley, has had a 23.3 per cent increase on last year alone.

In contrast the University Centre in Blackburn, which has 2,999 full time equivalent places, have doubled from 524 to 1,222 and there are vacancies on some courses.

Bosses at both universities said that most popular courses will be full but places will be available on undersubscribed subjects.

A spokesperson for the University of Central Lancashire said: “We anticipate having only a limited number of course places available in clearing. Last year’s places were gone within hours. There might be some places available this year.”

Ian Clinton, Blackburn College principal, said: “With the lack of jobs and increased competition in the world of work, higher education can provide the guidance, advice and experience needed to re-enter the employment market on a higher level.

“This and the fact that we offer a high-class institution on our doorstep are the two main reasons for this leap in applications.”

The Higher Education Funding Council for England has confirmed there will be 6,000 fewer places for full-time undergraduates, meaning that thousands of students face rejection from universities.