Choosing what to study
A helpful guide to choosing the right course
Choosing the right university and course is a huge decision to make. It's important to find a university that suits your career goals, interests and lifestyle.
Choosing the right subject
For some, choosing what to study at uni is a no-brainer – from early on they have always known what they want to do with their lives. But for others, it’s not as clear cut.
If you're struggling to find a course you're interested in, take a step back and ask yourself two simple questions.
1. What are you really interested in learning about?
Going to university is an investment of your time, hard work and finances, so choosing a subject that you truly enjoy will ensure you get the most of uni.
2. What career do you want?
Think about what you want to do in the future and work backwards – will the course you choose help you get to where you want to be? It might help to write a list of all the things you want your career to offer you.
Use our subject cluster pages to narrow down your interests and ambitions to specific courses that you'd like to study.
Find your course
Do your research
Carry out a bit of research through university websites, UCAS, The Student Room and by visiting Open Days.
Here are some things to find out:
- What modules will you be studying?
- What are the learning outcomes?
- Who will be teaching you?
- How will you be assessed?
- Are there opportunities to take up a placement, spend a year in industry or study abroad?
- How long is the course?
- What qualification will your studies lead to?
Search courses at LJMU to find answers to the above. Then narrow down your choices further by drawing up a pros and cons list comparing the courses you’re most interested in.
Find the best uni experience
Since you’re going to be based at your chosen uni for a few years, make sure it offers you what you need beyond the lecture hall as well.
Consider things that matter to you such as:
- Is there a university sports team or student group you can join?
- Are there opportunities to study abroad?
- Can you engage with the wider community through volunteering, part-time work or placements?
- Are the facilities, library, accommodation and support on campus going to meet your needs?
- Are there things to do outside of campus in the university’s town or city? Have you looked into what’s on offer within reach of the uni, such as restaurants, green spaces, shopping, nightlife, activities and events?
Do your research
Carry out a bit of research through university websites, UCAS, The Student Room and by visiting Open Days.
Here are some things to find out:
- What modules will you be studying?
- What are the learning outcomes?
- Who will be teaching you?
- How will you be assessed?
- Are there opportunities to take up a placement, spend a year in industry or study abroad?
- How long is the course?
- What qualification will your studies lead to?
Search courses at LJMU to find answers to the above. Then narrow down your choices further by drawing up a pros and cons list comparing the courses you’re most interested in.
Find the best uni experience
Since you’re going to be based at your chosen uni for a few years, make sure it offers you what you need beyond the lecture hall as well.
Consider things that matter to you such as:
- Is there a university sports team or student group you can join?
- Are there opportunities to study abroad?
- Can you engage with the wider community through volunteering, part-time work or placements?
- Are the facilities, library, accommodation and support on campus going to meet your needs?
- Are there things to do outside of campus in the university’s town or city? Have you looked into what’s on offer within reach of the uni, such as restaurants, green spaces, shopping, nightlife, activities and events?
Come to an Open Day
One of the best ways to help you decide where to study is to visit an Open Day. LJMU hosts a number of Open Days where you can hear from current students and lecturers about the courses that interest you. You’ll get a feel for what it’s like to study at LJMU.
