Spotlight on Choosing a Course and University
With over 35,000 courses and 354 institutions on the UCAS website, it can be overwhelming for students to know where to start their research into the options available to them at degree level. To help with this, we've developed an interactive workshop that guides your students through the choosing process, enabling them to make an informed choice on a course and university that is the best fit for them.
Here are all the resources you need to deliver this workshop with your students:
1. Download the briefing sheet.
2. Download the presentation slides.
4. Download the follow-up links.
As teachers and advisors, you play an important role in a student's decision making process on their next steps, so along with our workbook here's our top tips on how you can help.
Encourage your students to start their research early
It's never too early to ask your students to start thinking about their next steps. Starting the research process earlier will enable student to take part in more super-curricular activities which will not only help them make an informed decision, but will also help them build a strong application.
Signpost to virtual super-curricular opportunities
We know that super-curricular activities are more limited now than in previous years. There are however many digital opportunities for your students to find out more about studying a particular subject at degree level, including MOOC's, virtual open days, TED talks, and online guest lectures. Check out our guide to super-curricular activity here.
Encourage deeper exploration of subject
When it comes to applying for courses at university, we often find students struggle to articulate why they want to study a particular course. Through conversation or group discussion, encourage your students to delve deeper into their chosen subject. Why are they interested in it? Is there a particular topic they enjoy? What are they most looking forward to learning? Encourage your students to reflect back on this throughout their research so they can ensure they choose a course that is the best fit for their interests and goals.
Encourage students to speak to a teacher/ advisor in a similar subject
Students value the advice provided by teachers. Chatting to a member of staff in a field they are interested in will help them find out more about that particular course, and is an excellent opportunity for teachers to recommend books and resources to help students explore a subject further. Our teacher CPD session on 'How to Support your students with their UCAS application' offers support and guidance to staff on the whole UCAS process. If this session interests you, please get in touch with your Outreach Officer.
As an Outreach team we are here to support you and your students. If you receive any questions about courses and pathways you are unfamiliar with, please do get in touch with the team. We are here to help!