The Student Room Group

University

I am in year 13 and have been struggling to make a decision about what i want to apply for next year. I take Maths Physics and Art alevel aswell as an EPQ (which was history based). I was looking at doing History of Art at university, as history has always been a favourite of mine even tho i didn’t pick it for alevel. I’m just wondering if this would still be suitable for me or if i would struggle as ive taken no essay based alevels (other than my epq). I was also looking at at architecture and fine art but i’m not sure if these are suited for me.

Reply 1

Have you been to any open days?

Reply 2

Original post by meghanfatty
I am in year 13 and have been struggling to make a decision about what i want to apply for next year. I take Maths Physics and Art alevel aswell as an EPQ (which was history based). I was looking at doing History of Art at university, as history has always been a favourite of mine even tho i didn’t pick it for alevel. I’m just wondering if this would still be suitable for me or if i would struggle as ive taken no essay based alevels (other than my epq). I was also looking at at architecture and fine art but i’m not sure if these are suited for me.

Morning,

In my experience I've found essay writing at university is quite different from essay writing at alevel anyways, so I wouldn't worry about struggling with that. There should also be some great resources at whatever university you choose if you do start struggling. For example, if you wanted to study History of Art at UEA this would give you access to the Learning Enhancement Team who can help you with your essays.

Architecture and fine art also sound really good! I think the best thing for you to do would be to select some universities that you might like to learn a bit more about and then attend some Open Days to speak to current students and lecturers. If you're struggling to find universities, then you can use the UCAS Course Finder or Prospects to help, or I can give you some tips and things to look out for 🙂

If Open Days aren't your thing, you can also use Unibuddy to talk to many students from different universities online. That way you could speak to architecture students or history of art students- whoever you want! -and get an understanding of their experiences.

But I definitely would worry, it seems you're giving this a lot of thought and reaching out for advice which is a really good thing. If you have any other questions feel free to drop me a message and I'll respond asap.

Good Luck!
UEA Rep Grace

Reply 3

Original post by meghanfatty
I am in year 13 and have been struggling to make a decision about what i want to apply for next year. I take Maths Physics and Art alevel aswell as an EPQ (which was history based). I was looking at doing History of Art at university, as history has always been a favourite of mine even tho i didn’t pick it for alevel. I’m just wondering if this would still be suitable for me or if i would struggle as ive taken no essay based alevels (other than my epq). I was also looking at at architecture and fine art but i’m not sure if these are suited for me.

Hello! @meghanfatty 🙂
Firstly, it's great you're thinking of applying to study History of Art, this must be an exciting time! I understand how not taking History can cause some worries about whether you'd be accepted onto courses.

I'd recommend making a list of the universities you'd like to go to and have a look at their websites for entry requirements. Whether you need to have done history will depend on the university.
For example, UEA have no subject requirements for History of Art, you just need to get AAB in your A Levels.
The course link is here if you want more information.
Then, have a look at the course profiles and see which degree sounds like the one you'd enjoy the best and rank them.

I'd also highly recommend visiting open days just to have a look around the university and chat to current student/staff about your course.

Hope this helps and I'd be more than happy to answer any questions or if you'd like more information about UEA! 🙂
Fatma
Natural Sciences student.
Original post by meghanfatty
I am in year 13 and have been struggling to make a decision about what i want to apply for next year. I take Maths Physics and Art alevel aswell as an EPQ (which was history based). I was looking at doing History of Art at university, as history has always been a favourite of mine even tho i didn’t pick it for alevel. I’m just wondering if this would still be suitable for me or if i would struggle as ive taken no essay based alevels (other than my epq). I was also looking at at architecture and fine art but i’m not sure if these are suited for me.

Choosing the right university degree is a pivotal decision that sets the path for your future career. Start by reflecting on your passions and interests - what really interests you. Consider the subjects or fields you have always been curious about, because remember this is about finding a career you will enjoy. It's all about laying those foundations.

Here are some more tips for you:

Research is key when choosing your course. Read the prospectus and course content on university websites and go to Open Days to talk to the staff teaching the subjects to get all the information on offer. Don’t just pick the course based on the name; look in detail at what you’ll be studying. Also find out the type of assessments that are involved, whether it’s all exams, all coursework, or a mixture of both and determine whether this suits you or not.

Evaluate your strengths and skills that you currently have. Identifying these can guide you towards a field that aligns with your natural abilities, ultimately enhancing your chances of success and professional satisfaction. Make a list of areas you already excel in and areas where you believe you have a competitive advantage.

Consult with family members, guidance counsellors, mentors and professionals in the fields you are interested in. They can provide valuable insights into the demands and rewards of different degrees, helping you analyse if a specific field matches your expectations. Their experience and knowledge can help you when narrowing down degrees, and assist you in making an informed decision.

Choosing the right university degree is a personal journey that requires research, and careful consideration. Good luck 🙂

Samantha USW Social Team

Quick Reply