I have offers from both of them and I just can't choose! I thought I would seek some advice here :P Ok so here's the details:
Leeds have offered me AAB with an A in French and a Pass in JLPT N4 (I passed it already). Manchester just offered me ABB
I initially really preferred Manchester because of the overall feel of the uni, even though I thought the course at Leeds was slightly better (because they take the year abroad in year 2 and it seems more high level with smaller class sizes). It's not like I dislike Leeds, I just really liked Manchester.
I am really keen on the IPML* at Manchester but since I am not taking Japanese as an A level I didn't qualify to apply for it ): BUT, i have spoken to lecturers and they say that if you achieve 60% in year 1 you can request to change to the IPML course. The question is, is this achievable?
Basically, if I were to choose from simply the BA Japanese and French courses I would pick Leeds. If i were to choose from the university feel I think Manchester would win (But i have never lived up north so my impressions are only from open days). If I were to choose between the IPML and the BA I would choose the IPML. But Manchester have offered me lower than Leeds, so it would be weird to put Manchester first.
I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO. HELP
*IPML is Integrated Professional Masters in Languages - the only course in the UK which does this. You spend 4 years studying at manchester, the 4th being a Masters year. (so it's an undergrad masters course) It's an elite course and both languages have to have been studied before. It integrates work experience in with the course and so placements are required while doing the degree. You are required to spend your summers abroad. You can take 0-2 years out depending on what you want. (I would choose to take the two years out, one in Japan and one in France. i would much rather travel as part of my uni course than on my own not knowing what I'm doing). Basically it looks freaking awesome but I'm not sure I would even be able to get onto this course.