How to pick a course and how to pick universities - A graduates guide

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Think about subject areas you can see yourself studying for 3+ years and what you see yourself having a job in

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If you know what job you want to do you can use the National Careers Service to see what options you have

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Filter down to a rough idea of the course / subject you want to do. That way you can keep your options open.

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Does the uni offer your subject?

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Is the unis entry requirements around your predicted grades

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Is the uni in an area that you like? (In a town/city or more rural? by the sea , by the country etc)

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Do they offer accommodation that you like and is in your price range?

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What are the employability / grad outcome after the degree?

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What is taught on the course- a lot of unis will list the module names and a bit of information about the module on their websites

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How is the course assessed? is it exams, coursework, presentations,reports?

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What are the facilities like for the course?

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How many students will be on our course and in classes?

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How much time will be spent in lessons?

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Does the course need an interview?

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What subjects am I good at? Which do I enjoy?

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What degree could I do with them?

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What might I want to do in future? Will x, y and z degree help me get there?

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Which unis are high performing for this degree area? Take a look at The Complete Uni Guide for some initial inspiration!

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Pick out a few - 1-2 aspirationals, 2-3 realistics, and one insurance, making sure to carefully check their course contents pages.

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Go to a few open days and ask yourself...Do I like this place? Would I feel happy here? What do current students say about it? What is the course like - would I enjoy these modules and is there a placement opportunity? Would I be happy studying this for 3-4 years?

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Think carefully - don't rush!

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Get support with your personal statement and application.

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Make your choices...

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Do your best!