Post 18 Choices

Higher Education

After leaving school, many students consider university or college study for an undergraduate degree. These are usually made up of modules (some compulsory and some optional) that add up to a full degree.

Bachelor degrees usually last either three or four years if studied full-time (although some courses are longer). You can concentrate on a single subject, combine two subjects in a single course (often called dual or joint honours courses), or choose several subjects (combined honours). Most courses have core modules, which everyone studies, and many courses allow you to choose options or modules to make up a course that suits you. Some bachelor degrees offer a year in industry or year abroad, which forms part of the course and develops an even wider experience, to build essential skills.

Some students set their heart on a particular university, while others just want to choose the course they like the sound of best. Either way is fine, but make sure you do your research, as changing your university or college once you’ve started isn’t always easy.

Some top tips to help you when choosing where to study:

Attend an open day – we cannot recommend this enough. It’s an opportunity for you to meet the course tutors, see the facilities, and explore the area.

If you can’t attend an open day, explore the campus with a virtual tour or use the chat bot resource and ask questions to a current student.

Check the application deadline – some universities and courses have a different application deadline, so make sure you know the deadline associated to your chosen course or uni. Oxbridge applications are made earlier in the school year.

Check the entry requirements – different courses and universities will have different entry requirements.

www.university.springpod.com can help with further exploration.

Our university partners can help you more! They visit the Academy to support with careers focused themed weeks, assemblies and lesson learning. We have strong links with all of the Midlands universities –