What degree should I do?

What subject should I study?

It's important to choose a subject that you enjoy, because you'll be studying it for the next three (or more) years. Here are some things to consider when you're thinking about what to study at university:

What do you enjoy?
What are you good at?
Will it help you get a job?
Do you meet the entry requirements?

You should also consider whether you have studied the right A Levels to get onto the course. Most university courses require you to have studied the subject, or something very similar, at A Level.

Some university courses are more strict than others. For example, many science courses require you to have studied at least two science subjects and maths at A Level. Make sure you check this for every course and university.

A science student looks into a microscope.

Different types of degree

Now that you have decided what to study at university, you may have noticed that there are a few different types of degree available. Here's a summary of the most common types and what they mean:

Bachelor's degree

Degree Apprenticeships

Foundation degree

A foundation degree is basically a shorter degree. It is the equivalent of two-thirds of a bachelor's degree and is completed in two years instead of three (full-time). It can give you the fundamental skills in a subject, whilst leaving the door open to further study at a later date. It is distinguished as a foundation degree on the certificate. For example, a Foundation in Arts (FdA).

This is different to a foundation entry degree, which is a longer version of a degree for people who don't meet the initial course entry requirements.

Foundation entry degree

Still not sure about different types of degree? Find out more on what is an undergraduate degree.

Slide 1 of 3

Choosing a university

Once you have decided what to study at university and the type of degree, it's time to look at different universities.

Check the course

The most important thing to do when choosing a university is to check your course. Look at the modules you will be studying and see whether these align with your interests and career goals.

Remember, even if two courses have the same name, they could cover very different things. Modules are typically influenced by the academics' research interests.

On-campus vs online

When you choose what to study at university, you should also consider how you would like to study. Would you like to attend face-to-face lectures or would you prefer to study online at home? Both have their own merits.

Study abroad or year in industry

You should also consider whether you would like to study abroad or complete a year in industry. Then, you should see whether the university offers this for your course.

Many students choose to study abroad to experience a new culture and different ways of thinking. During this year, you will still study your chosen subject from an international perspective, with a new approach to learning. This can enhance your skills and broaden your horizons for your degree and beyond.

A year in industry is also popular with students. Companies offer placements to students which are beneficial for both parties. The student gets training and skills, and the company gets an employee with fresh ideas. This normally takes place in your 2nd or 3rd year of study.

Slide 1 of 3

Lifestyle

Of course, choosing a university isn't all about the academia. You could be living and studying at university for the next three or more years, so you want to make sure it's right for you. Here's some lifestyle factors to consider:

Accommodation

Most universities encourage first-year students to live at university halls. That's why you should consider the accommodation at the university.

Think about your budget and take a look at the accommodation online. Most universities offer single or shared rooms. Most rooms have en-suite bathrooms, with some shared bathrooms.

You could also choose to live off-campus in private accommodation. Consider things like cost and proximity to campus. Make sure you choose a registered landlord for greater security. Read more advice about private accommodation.

Cost of living

Social life

Societies are a great way to make friends at university. They might be based on academic interests, hobbies or a shared cultural background. Just check out some of the societies we have at UCLan's Student Union.

Going out is a big part of university culture, so it's worth checking what the nightlife is like. Preston has a great choice of restaurants, bars and clubs.

There's also a lot of choice for people who don't drink. Preston has a wide range of leisure complexes and Halal spots for foodies. Just check out our alcohol-free activity recommendations.

Sport and physical activity

Student support

University can be hard. That's why it's important to look at the student support on offer.

At UCLan, we welcome students from a diverse range of backgrounds. That is why our support is so wide-reaching. We can help with study or careers, as well as cost of living concerns. We also provide mental health and wellbeing support. Our team also provide specialist support to students with disabilities, or from an Armed Forces or mature background.

Transport

Transport is often overlooked, but you will need to travel to and from university at least a couple of times a year. Consider how easy it is to travel to each university.

Some students may like living at the opposite side of the country. However, if you need to travel home a lot, you may want to pick somewhere a little closer.

It's also important to consider transport to and from campus on a day-to-day basis. Is accommodation close to the campus, or will you have to get the bus everyday?

Attend an Open Day

The best way to really get a feel for a university is to attend an Open Day. Discover more about your subject as you speak to course leaders and fellow students. Attend a campus tour to learn more about the facilities available. You might even be able to see some of the accommodation too.

Open Days are normally the deciding factor for students. A feeling you get once you step on campus. That is why we definitely recommend attending a few Open Days before you choose a university.

Slide 1 of 3

After attending numerous open days at universities across the country, UCLan was my first choice. I have no regrets choosing UCLan.

Osama Mahmood

BSc (Hons) Software Engineering student
United Kingdom

Virtual experience

Can't get to an Open Day? Don't worry. Lots of universities now offer virtual tours, so you can still see what it's like on-campus.

UCLan have our own virtual experience for students who can't make it to us. You can take a campus tour, look at accommodation and even explore Preston.

Start applying

Once you have decided what to study at university, it's time to start applying. You can apply for up to five different universities through UCAS. We recommend picking universities with a range of entry requirements.

UCLan offer a range of services to help you through the application process. Find out more below.

How to apply to university
You’ve found the perfect course and are finally ready to apply for University. Take the next step towards your future career and apply to study one of our courses using the guidance and information on this page.
A-Z of courses
Check out our course listings to discover what courses we have to offer including undergraduate, postgraduate, research, degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses.
How to write your personal statement
Now you've got an idea of which Uni you want to apply to, it's time for your personal statement. Here are some top tips on how to make a great impression.

Your saved courses

What degree should I do?

What subject should I study?