Should I transfer from Uni of Leeds to Central Saint Martins? (Graphic Design)

Hi i'm a first year student at University of Leeds studying the Graphic Design and Communication course, originally I was studying Business and Marketing and took an executive decision in my first term to switch to Graphic Design as this is what I had originally wanted to study career wise, however my parents pressured my into picking something more 'academic'.

I'm extremely satisfied that I decided to switch course even though I came to Leeds in pursuit of its national reputation for the business course I was previously on, the design department is still regarded quite high on prospects etc as I read on an article that variably its #6th for graphic design. There is still a part of me however that is curious about what my employability prospects, networking contacts and abilities would be like if I chose to study at an arts specialist school such as Central Saint Martins. Obviously Leeds University is a much larger institution which provides attention for multiple different departments and subjects other than arts so would moving from one relatively large multi-disciplinary institution to a more niche institution better my education prospects? I'm aware Central Saint Martins hold a high reputation in the arts, how much better is it than Leeds?

I've been told due to my course compatibility and previous grades reference, I have the ability to transfer from Leeds University to Central Saint Martins in my second year. I really don't know which one is going to be better for my enjoyment of creative outlet and future prospects. Will I be able to integrate well socially if I switch? Are the facilities better and more widely available? What are the networking opportunities in terms of the design industry like?

I know theres a lot of questions there, but i'm really stuck on what to do as its a big decision and really need some help from anyone who has any experience in attending either university, has visited both, or has even had an experience of transferring between any uni. Is it worth it? Any help would be greatly appreciated as I need to make a decision soon! thank you (:

Reply 1

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Original post by treej

Hi i'm a first year student at University of Leeds studying the Graphic Design and Communication course, originally I was studying Business and Marketing and took an executive decision in my first term to switch to Graphic Design as this is what I had originally wanted to study career wise, however my parents pressured my into picking something more 'academic'.

I'm extremely satisfied that I decided to switch course even though I came to Leeds in pursuit of its national reputation for the business course I was previously on, the design department is still regarded quite high on prospects etc as I read on an article that variably its #6th for graphic design. There is still a part of me however that is curious about what my employability prospects, networking contacts and abilities would be like if I chose to study at an arts specialist school such as Central Saint Martins. Obviously Leeds University is a much larger institution which provides attention for multiple different departments and subjects other than arts so would moving from one relatively large multi-disciplinary institution to a more niche institution better my education prospects? I'm aware Central Saint Martins hold a high reputation in the arts, how much better is it than Leeds?

I've been told due to my course compatibility and previous grades reference, I have the ability to transfer from Leeds University to Central Saint Martins in my second year. I really don't know which one is going to be better for my enjoyment of creative outlet and future prospects. Will I be able to integrate well socially if I switch? Are the facilities better and more widely available? What are the networking opportunities in terms of the design industry like?

I know theres a lot of questions there, but i'm really stuck on what to do as its a big decision and really need some help from anyone who has any experience in attending either university, has visited both, or has even had an experience of transferring between any uni. Is it worth it? Any help would be greatly appreciated as I need to make a decision soon! thank you (:

This isn't really something anyone can answer for you.

I'd suggest applying (if you don't get an offer or decide not to go then you wont lose your place at Leeds - withdrawing from a course is only started if you fill in the specific withdrawal forms) and then use some of your time over Easter to visit and talk to current students/staff about the course (or ask the admissions staff if they can put you in touch with some current first years to find out about the course directly from them).