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What is higher education really like?

What is higher education all about?

Unlike school, you're at university or college because you want to be, learning more about a subject or job you're really into. You'll have more control over how and when you study - though it’s up to you to make the most of it. You'll find higher education challenging as you get used to new ways of learning and thinking may take time, but you'll have a lot of fun along the way. You’ll also have lots of opportunities to experience new things and meet new people.

What you can study?

Most people study one or two subjects, but in a lot of detail. There are higher education courses in subjects you studied at school, like Maths or English. There are also more unusual options, such as criminology (the study of crime) or software engineering (learning to write computer software - games or other programs).

Other courses lead to specific jobs like journalism or medicine. It’s possible to study ‘combined’ courses. For example, someone wishing to follow a career in politics but with an interest in art might study both subjects together.

Studying and social life

Studying

Higher education is a very different experience to school or further education. You are expected to do far more work for yourself. Lectures and seminars will provide guidance, but you’ll need to widen your knowledge through background reading.

Subject staff will offer lots of advice to help you get used to this new way of working. Library staff will be able to help you find the materials you need, and advise on referencing and avoiding plagiarism when it comes to writing essays.

Socialising

Making new friends is a key part of the higher education experience. If you’re worried about fitting in, remember that students from all backgrounds, all ages and from different places go to university and college. One way to form friendships is through student societies or sports. It’s often easier to make friends with people if you share a similar interests.

There will probably be a full list of societies available on your students' union website, and you’ll have an opportunity to join up to most at the ‘freshers’ fair’. Most institutions have a sports centre of their own or an arrangement with the local centre. As a student you’re likely to have access to sports facilities and you may get a discount on gym membership.

Getting a taste of student life

Most universities and colleges run open days. They are generally held two or three times a year and allow you to look around them and see what is on offer. Many institutions also offer short courses over the summer period, giving prospective students the chance to get a taste of higher education.

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