Dreaming Big: How to Pick the University That's Right for Your Journey.

Thinking about where to go to university is a big decision, and there are multiple factors to consider. To help you make the best choice for you, here are some key factors to consider.

Does the University offer your subject?

Not all universities offer all subjects. Therefore, it is important that you choose your subject first. This will help you shortlist which universities may be of interest to you. Then, when choosing a university, it’s important for students to look beyond reputation or location and take a close look at the course structure for their chosen subject. Even degrees with the same title can vary significantly between universities. Some courses may focus more on theoretical concepts or be Maths-heavy, while others might emphasise practical skills, projects, or real-world applications. Assessment methods can also differ significantly - one university might rely heavily on exams, while another may prioritise coursework, group projects, or presentations.

Placement Year, Year in Industry or Year Abroad.

Many universities now offer opportunities to enhance your degree through a year in industry, a placement year, or a year abroad - but not every course includes these options. A year in industry or placement year can give you valuable hands-on experience, build professional skills, and make you more employable after graduation. Similarly, a year abroad can broaden your horizons, improve language skills, and give you a global perspective on your subject. However, these opportunities are often course-specific, so it’s important to check the course specification carefully to see whether they’re available and how they fit into the overall degree structure. If gaining practical experience or studying in another country appeals to you, make sure to choose a course that offers these enriching options.

University Facilities

The facilities on offer at a university can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life and overall experience.

Consider what is available on site and the distance between facilities. Facilities can include: sports centres, music, gym, libraries, art galleries and more.

University Rankings

University Rankings can be a helpful guide, but it's important to know how they work.

Remember that different ranking systems take into account different factors, such as research quality, student satisfaction or graduate prospects.

Campus vs Collegiate Universities

Location and Lifestyle: The location of a university can be a key part of your student life. You may want to factor into your decision whether you prefer a bustling city or a quieter town and how far you want to be from home. Campus universities have a central structure with shared facilities, offering a more unified student experience, while collegiate universities have individual colleges providing a close-knit community. Here are some comparisons:

1. Location & Layout

• Campus University:

  • All (or most) university buildings including; lecture halls, libraries, dorms, cafeterias, and sports facilities are located together in one self-contained area.

  • Examples: University of Warwick, University of East Anglia, Loughborough University.

• City University:

  • University buildings are spread out across the city, often mixed with shops, offices, and housing.

  • Examples: University of Manchester, University College London (UCL), University of Glasgow.

2. Environment

• Campus University:

  • Usually quieter, greener, and more community-focused.

  • Fewer distractions and less urban noise.

• City University:

  • In the heart of a city - more vibrant, fast-paced, and integrated with urban life.

  • Easy access to city amenities, nightlife, and cultural events.

3. Convenience

• Campus University:

  • Everything is within walking distance; minimal travel between lectures, housing, and facilities. Most first-year halls of residence are also located on campus.

• City University:

  • You may need to travel (walk, bus, metro) between different university buildings or accommodation.

4. Social Life

• Campus University:

  • Tight-knit community; students often live and socialise on campus.

  • Easier to meet people and get involved in societies.

• City University:

  • Social life may be more spread out between the university and city events.

  • Greater mix of students and locals, offering a broader social scene.

5. Cost of Living

• Campus University:

  • Typically lower cost of living (especially if located outside major cities).

• City University:

  • Can be more expensive, particularly in cities like London, Bristol or Edinburgh.

6. Career Opportunities

• Campus University:

  • Fewer local job opportunities unless working for the university, e.g in the Student Union (SU).

• City University:

  • Often closer to employers, internships, and networking events - beneficial for career building.