University choices: the key points to consider

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We asked Bella Eccles, founder of career-mentoring consultancy , to give us the lowdown on everything you need to know about making university choices – from narrowing down the right course to understanding your options if university doesn’t feel right for you. Watch the video in full below – or if you’re short on time, skip ahead to the chapter which interests you...

3.26 - Where do I start?

Choose what you’d like to study, and then decide where you’d like to study it

Do your research thoroughly into the courses - look closely at the modules that make up each year of study

If you don’t yet know what subjects you want to study, think about what careers you might be interested in, and then come back to think about the subject to choose

Look beyond the obvious; make sure the course requirements are realistic and don’t make assumptions

9.30 - Which matters more: choice of university, or choice of course?

10.40 - Location: what are the key points students should consider?

Where are you going to feel most comfortable: in a city or out of town; close to home or miles away?

12.06 - If I have to compromise, should I go for the wrong course at the right university, or the right university and the wrong course?

The most important thing is to enjoy what you are studying, and excel at it1

13.40 - Do Oxbridge and the other Russell Group universities still count in the world of work?

Some of the best-known and most-respected universities aren’t members of the Russell Group - and employers are now focusing less on prestige and more on what someone has studied and what they have achieved academically

15.23 - A-levels, IB or BTEC - will this impact my options?

16.12 - I’m not sure university is right for me – what are my options?

Think about where you want to continue to learn and where you want to get to

20.15 - What are the pros and cons of a four-year placement course?

Placement courses are a brilliant opportunity to start putting your academic subject into the context of the wider world – so start gathering as much work experience as possible now

22.18 - I’m thinking about studying abroad: what are the things I need to consider?

Think about the costs involved, including the cost of living in the city or country where you’ll be based – and be aware of the application processes and timelines

24.39 - What’s your advice for parents?

Encourage your son or daughter to do their own research, and hold back on judgement - it’s your child’s decision to make.

27.21 - Is it worth attending online university open days?

28.16 - Where can I find more information?

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University choices: the key points to consider

TE Schools Advice