Choosing a degree
Choosing the right degree is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make before university, and it can shape your future career path. With so many options available, it’s important to think about your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.
Whether you’re drawn to a subject you’re passionate about or looking for degrees with strong job prospects, there’s plenty to consider. From career outcomes to student experiences, our guide will help you explore your options. No matter where you are in the decision-making process, we’ve got the insights you need to make an informed choice.
Your degree can open doors to a wide range of career paths, even beyond the most obvious roles. Many graduates find opportunities in industries they hadn’t initially considered, using transferable skills gained from their studies. Whether you want a clear career trajectory or flexibility to explore different fields, understanding job prospects can help you choose the right course.
Picking a degree isn’t just about job prospects—it’s also about choosing a subject that keeps you engaged. Consider what you enjoy, the skills you want to develop, and the kind of learning environment that suits you best. From hands-on vocational courses to research-heavy academic degrees, there’s something for everyone.
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When selecting a degree, reflect on your interests and strengths. Consider how the course aligns with your future ambitions. Research the courses offered at various universities, noting opportunities to specialise or explore interdisciplinary modules. For undergraduate courses, check if options like work placements or a semester abroad are available
It's common to feel unsure. Consider taking a gap year to gain experience or clarity. Opt for a flexible course like liberal arts that allows you to explore multiple subjects. Speaking with a career advisor can also help identify your strengths and interests
Examine the structure and content of each course, as they can vary between universities. Consider factors such as teaching methods, assessment styles, and available facilities. Attending open days or virtual tours can provide valuable insights
Bachelor's degrees are the most common undergraduate qualifications, spanning a range of subjects from environmental sciences to law and English literature. You can focus on a single subject, combine two subjects in a joint honours course, or choose several subjects in a combined honours programme
It’s normal to feel uncertain. Start by identifying subjects you enjoy and excel in at school. Research how different degree subjects link to career paths, and consider broader courses like business or social sciences if you want flexibility. Speaking with a career advisor or attending university open days can also help you explore your options.
University life varies depending on the course you choose, with some degrees packed with lectures while others focus on independent study. STEM students may spend their days in labs, while humanities students often dive into research and discussions. Understanding the workload, teaching style, and daily routine of your chosen degree can help you decide if it’s the right fit.
A day in the life of a creative writing student
A day in the life of a French student
A day in the life of a journalist student
A day in the life of an International Relations student
A day in the life of an English Literature student
When choosing a degree, you need to also think about the universities that offer it. We’ve rounded up rankings of the best universities for loads of different degrees, and some of the worst too!
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Hi, I'm Amelia! I'm an English Language and Linguistics student studying in Brighton. Outside of my studies, I'm either writing poetry or on spontaneous outings with my friends.
Top tip for students? Say YES to as many things as possible! Even if that means pushing yourself out your comfort zone, you'll be grateful you did it!
Hi I’m Thea! I'm an undergrad anthropology student at the SOAS. I love all things pop culture, going to concerts, journaling and reading romance books.
Top tip for students? Time management is key - waiting until the deadline to start your assignment will only make your life harder (trust me I would know).
Hi I’m Holly, a Politics and International Relations student at the University of Sheffield! In my free time I love going to the gym, seeing my friends, reading and travelling as much as possible.
Top tip for students? Make the most of everything, time at university goes by so quickly!
Hi I’m Sophie! I’m a creative writing student currently studying in London. I love writing both fiction ranging from short stories to flash fiction and non-fiction consisting mainly of book reviews. In my spare time aside from writing fiction I'm usually head down into a book or two.
Top tip for students? You deserve to be exactly where you are and deserve to want more. Always be willing to take on opportunities that will help you move forward in your career.
Hi I'm Mia, a History & Sociology Student studying in Manchester. My current favourite hobby is taking photos of rave culture at events with my friends in the city, as an EDM music lover myself. I love to post my pictures on my personal blog and fall into wormholes on Pinterest. If I'm not with a camera in hand, I'm probably curled up with a cuppa creating another vision board collage.
Top tip for students? Don't let bad grades in your first year get you down too much. It is such a huge step up from the school system and everyone, even the overachievers (me) need time to adjust. Academic validation isn't everything, but you are capable of anything if you take it one step at a time!
Hi I'm Amy, a University of Salford BA Film Production student. I have a strong passion for creative writing; whether it be scripts or fiction, I can turn almost anything into a story if given the opportunity. Outside of my studies I enjoy reading, taking sky pictures and playing DnD with my friends.
Top tip for students? Don't let any doubt or fear you have take over. You are exactly where you deserve to be. Take university by the horns and make it the experience you want it to be, not what others want it to be.
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a student at the University of Exeter and I study French and International Relations. When I'm not doing my seminar prep, I'm either reading a good fiction book, listening to a pop culture podcast or on the New York Times website! I enjoy writing the articles and guides I wished I had when I first started university.
Top tip for students? Make use of your professors' office hours as much as you can!
