Research v Teaching University

JCEMum

2

What are the pros and cons of each?

Reply 1

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Depends if you’re applying to do research or learning.

Are you asking about a specific subject or degree type?

Reply 2

JCEMum

OP

2

Daughter is in the process of applying - variations on the conservation theme. Top two are Uni of Exeter at Falmouth and Uni of Gloucestershire at Cheltenham. Exeter introduced itself as a research-led uni and Gloucestershire as a teaching uni. What are the main differences/pros/cons to an undergrad? My only understanding is that a research uni staff can be very focussed on their own research (and getting the funds to research), so much so that teaching can come second place, whereas a teaching uni focuses on teaching.

Reply 3

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Original post by JCEMum

Daughter is in the process of applying - variations on the conservation theme. Top two are Uni of Exeter at Falmouth and Uni of Gloucestershire at Cheltenham. Exeter introduced itself as a research-led uni and Gloucestershire as a teaching uni. What are the main differences/pros/cons to an undergrad? My only understanding is that a research uni staff can be very focussed on their own research (and getting the funds to research), so much so that teaching can come second place, whereas a teaching uni focuses on teaching.

Research universities will often focus efforts and priorities on research over teaching (and place lower priorities on staff who are teaching having teaching qualifications…so more staff teaching without training on the best practices for teaching).

Research council funded research also takes funding away from teaching. Research council grants are funded at 80% of the costs of the project they fund. Universities taking those grants are expected to subsidise the costs of the research from other sources of income - generally from tuition fee income.

Basically despite the marketing hype around the Russell group it’s not something that will necessarily benefit undergraduate students in any way - and in many cases it can lead to a poorer experience.

That being said the main things for picking a university are about identifying the place and course where your daughter will thrive and be able to get the best results possible and get involved with as many opportunities outside her studies as possible. That could be studying in Cornwall. The best thing is to visit as many universities as possible.

Has your daughter looked at Bangor, UEA and Southampton? They’re all very strong in environmental science. They might not offer the precise degree title she’s been searching for but they could be good options.

Reply 4

McGinger

18

Original post by PQ

Basically despite the marketing hype around the Russell group it’s not something that will necessarily benefit undergraduate students in any way - and in many cases it can lead to a poorer experience.

This.
It means you are more likely to be taught by hourly paid PhD students than top academics who are too busy to actually teach.

Research v Teaching University

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