Why Choose Exeter University?

Advice for students applying to university

As university open day season is soon upon us, Year 12 students will be starting to consider their next steps. So much has changed for students experiencing higher education that getting to grips with what is on offer can be key to supporting your student.

Subject choices

With more than 400 courses in 40 subject areas at the University of Exeter, some students may find choosing what and how to study quite daunting. There are likely to be degree subjects that students might not have been exposed to previously or new combinations like Natural Sciences or International Relations.

It can be helpful to review some of the new opportunities and keep all options open when beginning to research next steps. All course descriptions can be found on university websites.

Study abroad or placement year

Depending on their course choice, students can expand their horizons by undertaking industry experience, a placement year abroad or fieldwork overseas. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, develop language skills.

Undertaking a work placement unlocks a world of experience that allows students to develop essential employability and interpersonal skills that relate to their degree and future career. Look out for courses with an industrial placement, study abroad or placement year options, turning a three-year degree into a four-year option.

Degree apprenticeships

Degree apprenticeships offer a way of launching their career tuition-fee free. Apprenticeships involve a partnership between an employer and a training provider (such as a university or other training organisation). Students will obtain a higher education qualification while being employed and earning.

Applying for a degree apprenticeship is like applying for a job rather than a university course and they are a great option if there is a specific career a student is interested in pursuing.

Where is best for…?

We are often asked what is the best route, course or option. This is not easy to answer, as the factors to consider will depend on the student: how they like to learn; the size and type of environment they are after; their personal strengths; and skills will all play a role.

Supporting the student in identifying their strengths and skills can be key to pinpointing the correct course for them. This might be from reflecting on their current academic study or considering the extracurricular skills they are developing.

What Next?

Typically, we recommend beginning university research in the spring/summer of Year 12. It can take considerable time to narrow down options, especially if the student enjoys a range of subjects. Start by booking open days to explore campuses, chat to students and quiz academics. Read through the course details for the degrees of interest and cast the net of possibilities wide. It can be also important to look at the details of student support and wellbeing, as well as student societies and accommodation. But, first and foremost, focus on the course and its content as it’s this that they will be studying throughout their university journey.

RACHEL CAUNTER Campaign Manager

www.exeter.ac.uk

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