Durham University or King’s College London

I have luckily received offers from both universities. From Durham, I have received a contextual offer of AAA for a Combined Honours in Social Sciences studying Politics, Business, History and Philosophy. The picturesque location of Durham really attracts me and it’s wide variety of modules is impressive. The countryside is what I’m used to and it would feel familiar to me to go there.

From King’s, I have received a contextual offer of ABB for BA/Bsc Political Economy and History. The cosmopolitan environment is a massive step up from what I’m used to but it’s international links and alumni seem more extensive than that of Durham’s. The close proximity to Westminster and the City is certainly a benefit.

I am unsure which to choose for my firm choice if I want the contextual offer to apply. Which university do you think is best or most reputable?

I have luckily received offers from both universities. From Durham, I have received a contextual offer of AAA for a Combined Honours in Social Sciences studying Politics, Business, History and Philosophy. The picturesque location of Durham really attracts me and it’s wide variety of modules is impressive. The countryside is what I’m used to and it would feel familiar for me to live there. I also love the history that surrounds Durham and it’s tradition.

From King’s, I have received a contextual offer of ABB for BA/Bsc Political Economy and History. The cosmopolitan environment is a massive step up from what I’m used to but it’s international links and alumni seem more extensive than that of Durham’s. The close proximity to Westminster and the City is certainly a benefit.

I am unsure which to choose for my firm choice if I want the contextual offer to apply. Which university do you think is the best or most reputable?

Hey!! Congrats on your offer I’ve also applied for CHSS at Durham but haven’t heard back yet :/ which college did you apply to? x

They are both excellent universities, so you'll get a great education, regardless of your choice. The degrees you mentioned are quite different so it comes down to what you like most. Also consider that the name of the degree is a selling point on your CV. So make sure you will be gaining a degree in something you would actually like to be considered an expert on (and that relates to the jobs you think you'd like to go after). The employers will read the name of your degree before deciding whether they want to know more about you.

That being said, KCL has a strong advantage internationally speaking. Durham is not that widely known, internationally speaking. However, it makes up for it in terms of UK recognition. So it also depends whether you want to study politics to work in the UK, or if you want to work outside of the country. And as I said, they are both top universities, so you'll do great regardless. Also take into account the costs of living. When London is in the equation, finance should always be considered.

Thanks for your reply! Interest wise, politics and history are my favourite subjects. However, as you say about the importance of the degree as the selling point on a CV, I wonder if King’s political economy course has a slight advantage employment wise over business at Durham as it is more specialised. What do you think?