choosing a course degree

I'm indecisive on choosing a university degree and am currently doing a foundation year diploma in art and design. I'm stuck between choosing to pursue either psychology/architecture/fashion design. Can anyone give me some advice?

Reply 1

Coventry University Student Ambassadors

Official Rep

Hi there!

It's completely normal to feel stuck at this stage. The first thing I would recommend thinking about is what you enjoy most in your foundation year.

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Research and written work links to psychology

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Problem solving and technical skills link to architecture

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Creative thinking and visuals link to fashion design

Another important aspect to think about each course structure and what career you want. It can be scary to think about what to do after university but having an idea about it can help your decision now.

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Psychology is an academic subject with a lot of writing but becoming a specific type of psychologist might require a master degree

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Architecture is a degree that usually has a heavy workload

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Fashion design is the most creative of the three choices but jobs can be highly competitive

There is also a fourth choice you have where you choose a degree that combines the other choices. For example:

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Environmental psychology = architecture + psychology

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Fashion psychology / consumer behaviour = psychology + fashion

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Design research / UX / spatial experience design = all three combined

A great thing to help your decision making is to attend open days to speak to lecturers as well as students - this really helped me when I was deciding on my course.

I hope this helps!

Esther
Film Production Student Ambassador

Reply 2

Norwich Uni Arts

Official Rep

Original post

by 0rang3juice

Hi there!
I hope you're well, I'm Charlotte, a year 3 Graphics student here at Norwich Uni Arts.

Have you tried attending any open days? These can be a great way to try and get a better feel for a few various courses and speak to current students and tutors. Alternatively, the UniBuddy platform can be used to message any course specific ambassadors at various unis if you have any questions.

When I was trying to make this decision, I requested prospectuses from around 10 different unis so that I could read all about the various courses and their content across the different universities - helping me choose both a uni and a course.

I hope this helps a little. I know it can be a very daunting process - so please don't hesitate to ask any questions!

Best of luck,
Charlotte, Student Ambassador at Norwich Uni Arts 🙂

Reply 3

Kingston Grace

Official Rep

Original post

by 0rang3juice

Hi @0rang3juice

I completely understand it is such a hard decision, I was the same as I did an art and design foundation and was stuck between English and Fashion Promotion and Communication.

I completely agree with the advice above my top tip would be going to open days, this really helped me see what I would be studying if I chose that subject.

It may also be good to speak to a careers advisor if you have one at your school/college. Or event your teachers.

Pro's and con's lists are also great :smile:

I also have a whole post here with lots of tips and advice on choosing a course at university.
Tips on Making a University Choice - The Student Room

I hope this helps and good luck 🙂 If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask!
-Grace (Kingston Rep)

Reply 4

LSBU

Official Rep

Original post

by 0rang3juice

Hi there, thank you for sharing your journey. If you’re drawn to Psychology, that pathway focuses on understanding human thought, behaviour, and wellbeing. A degree in this area can lead to careers in counselling, mental health support, human resources, education, research, and many roles where listening, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills are key.

Architecture is creative and technical, concentrating on designing buildings and spaces. It combines artistic vision with problem-solving, mathematics, and an understanding of how people interact with the built environment. Architecture degrees also include practical design studios, model making, and real world project work, and typically lead into professional pathways in architecture and built environment design.

Fashion Design is another creative route that allows you to develop visual communication, technical construction skills, trend understanding, and a design portfolio. Careers in fashion can range from garment design and fashion buying, to styling, textiles, and creative direction each blending artistry with industry knowledge.

At London South Bank University, there are strong programmes that align with each of these interests. If Psychology appeals to you, the BSc Psychology offers a broad foundation in psychological theory, research skills, and application, preparing you for further study or careers in support and advisory roles. For creative interests, BA (Hons) Fashion Design and BA (Hons) Fashion Business offer structured pathways into the fashion industry, focusing on creativity, technical ability, and industry awareness.

All of these courses at LSBU emphasize a balance of theory and practical experience, industry engagement, and professional development. They also come with access to supportive tutors, modern facilities, and opportunities to build portfolios, placements, and networking skills that help shape your future career. The skills you gain whether analytical thinking in psychology, creative problem solving in design, or technical understanding of space and form are highly transferable and valued across many professions.

You are always welcome to explore LSBU and get a real feel for what student life is like here. We have a Southwark open day: Saturday 7th February 2026 where you can hear more about our courses and support. If you would prefer to see the campus in person you can book a tour https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/study/study-at-lsbu/open-days on a day that suits you and get a sense of the spaces you would be studying in. You can also chat to our current students https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/student-life/chat to hear honest experiences and get answers to any course questions you might have.

LSBU Admissions Ambassador

Reply 5

UniofReading

Official Rep

Original post

by 0rang3juice

Good afternoon,

Choosing a university and course depends on what you want from your university experience. Every student wants something slightly different, such as a lecture style or exams vs. no exams. I always recommend deciding what you want from your university and writing a list. You can compare the two universities to your own criteria; this means the university will be the best fit for you.

The Whatuni website is good for Find A Course, as it offers a comprehensive list with reviews. Similarly, the UCAS website has tips on comparing undergraduate courses and universities, which is a great way to narrow down your options.

It is a very personal decision, so I recommend reaching out to our ambassadors and reviewing the course reviews and modules. This should help you come to an informed decision.

There is an ambassador scheme at the University of Reading where prospective students can message current students; more information is available here. They will be able to provide you with an insider's perspective on the degree and answer any questions you may have about the course.

All the best,
Ella
BSc Ecology