The power to choose is yours: make the right choice and the possibilities are endless Contents 3
Welcome 5-11 Making the right choices 4 12-15 University life 16-17 Student life 18-21 Careers 22-23 Subjects Finance Questions and answers 24-25 Who’s been to the 28-29 University of Birmingham? 26-2730-31 How they did it 32-42 Find out more A-Z jargon buster
To access the complementary online Resource Pack for this guide to university, visit our website at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ students/advice/services/resources.aspx Welcome 3
>>Welcome
Welcome to our young person’s guide to university, a sort of mini-prospectus to give you a taster of what university life is like.
We offer advice and information We encourage you to think a lot on a range of issues including: about yourself because that is where you really need to start – choosing your options in with who you are, what you’re Year 9 like, what you’re good at and making choices about what what you want to do in the future. to do after you fi nish your compulsory education what courses you can study in higher education and what careers these might lead to As you go through how to fi nance your studies the guide, if there and deal with debt are words you don’t what university life is like qualifi cations and pathways understand look them into higher education up in the jargon buster how some of our current at the back. undergraduates made their journeys from school to university how our former students (alumni) – some of them famous – have made their journeys from university Your teachers also have to where they are today some additional fun quizzes that you can try. 4 Making the right choices
>Making the right choices<<
If you are in Year 9 or Year 11, it’s a really important time for you. The decisions you make now could affect your future and what you will be doing over the next two years – so you need to think carefully and make the right choices.
Thinking about options Some university courses will ask Choosing your options – the for a specifi c number of GCSEs subjects you will be taking in at specifi c grades; eg, some Years 10 and 11 for your GCSEs medical courses ask for 5 or more or courses you will be taking in GCSEs at A*. Some courses; out the rest of your life – that Years 12 and 13 – may be one eg, Economics or Accounting, would be just too much to think of the biggest decisions you will may ask for a Grade A or B in about – but you need to have have to make in your school life. Mathematics, if A level Maths some idea of what you would is not being studied. like to do. GCSE choices can be quite important for future university At sixth form, it is important study. It is important to get to choose the right courses a balance of subjects, as this for your future higher education gives you more choice later study and career. If you already on when you to have to decide have an idea what you want What should I think about fi rst? on future careers. to do, make sure you check out what subjects particular Think about know yourself as a person – your likes, dislikes, skills, aptitudes You should also be aware of the university courses require. Yourself: know yourself as a person – your likes, dislikes, skills, aptitudes English Baccalaureate (E-Bac), If you have no ideas, make and attitudes introduced by the government sure you keep an open mind; What you want to do: further study, go to university, have a career or get in 2010. You will be judged to so you do not shut any doors a job and earn some money have the E-Bac if you have a C you may want to keep open. How you learn best: through exams, coursework or practical work grade or better across a core of The options available for you to take: the compulsory and optional academic subjects (eg, English, If you make the wrong choices ones as well as other opportunities other than GCSEs and A levels Mathematics, History or Geography, now, it’s not the end of the world Specifi c GCSE requirements: those needed for any course at university, there may be people to help and guide the sciences and a language); because there are always things which you are already interested in some schools encourage their that can be done about it, but Where to get help and advice: there may be people to help and guide students to follow these as a it does make life a little more you as well as printed and online resources that you will fi nd useful core, alongside others. diffi cult. You don’t have to map University life 5
>University life>>
What is the difference between further education and What is a university? higher education? A university is a place of higher education where you continue Further education is study in the sixth form at school or sixth form to learn after you have fi nished your secondary education. It has college where you take courses to further your education after taking lots of teaching and research facilities in many subject areas your GCSEs. Higher education colleges and universities offer you and has the authority to award degrees at bachelor, masters and the chance to study for higher-level qualifi cations such as degrees. doctorate levels. The word is also used as a noun to describe the buildings and grounds occupied by the institution. As a rule, you can think about this in terms of your approximate age as well: further education is something you might do post 16 – between the ages of 16 and 18; higher education is something you might do post 18 – after the age of 18 and after your further education studies.
What is higher education? Higher education is the term we give to the learning that takes place once you have fi nished your A levels or equivalent qualifi cations. A university is just one of the places you can go for higher education study: you can also go to a college of higher education or a college of further education where they offer higher education qualifi cations.
Higher education is also about making good choices about your future and taking charge of your learning so that you can have a more rewarding career. 6 University life
Why should I go to university?
You don’t have to go to university if you don’t want to but here are fi ve reasons why you should consider it if you want more out of life.
3 More thinking and decision time – Going to university will help you fi nd out more 1 More choices and better about your chosen subject – It’s a fact chances 2 More money in your but equally, it will help you of modern life that most pocket – Once you have your fi nd out more about yourself employers want their new university qualifi cation you and what you really want to recruits to have a university are more likely to land that do with your life, especially degree; sometimes the great job with the terrifi c in terms of your career path: subject of your degree matters salary, so you will have so going to university will give and sometimes it doesn’t – it more money in your pocket. you three or four years depends on the nature of the in which to think and job: so having a degree gives you Don’t forget to pay back make better decisions. more career options and better your student loan though! chances in the jobs market.
5 More social life, friendships and opportunities – Most people make loads of new friends – Everyone 4 More freedom and from all walks of life and from independence many different countries, and needs to be able to look after some of these friendships themselves sooner or later last a lifetime; you also get and being at university gives the chance to explore hobbies you the skills to do just and interests you never dreamed that, looking after your diet, of before: so this could be health and fi tness, money, the best time of your life with relationships and general ability opportunities not to be missed. to cope with modern life: so there is some freedom here and you will become much more independent. University life 7
Teaching and learning
In school your teaching is probably highly structured and well organised for you. When you study at university you make the transition from this structured approach to the independence and self motivation that you will eventually need for your professional working life.
Taking more Teaching methods responsibility You will be expected to take responsibility for organising your Teaching methods used might include: own work, for working in groups, meeting deadlines and seeking formal lectures (about an hour in length) help when you need it: you will need to manage your time so smaller group seminars that you have a balance between your leisure activities and time practical classes spent in personal study. You will have to do lots of independent personal study in libraries or elsewhere research using books and computer-based learning, the internet personal projects lasting from a couple of weeks to a term and original sources of material in the university’s library. group projects which can last a term or more laboratory-based work Don’t worry though; you will be guided by your tutors to work in teams on group projects, and to talk about your work and make more formal oral and written presentations. 8 University life
Active at Birmingham
At Birmingham, you are expected to take a more active role in managing your learning, as more of your time will be spent undertaking different forms of research to help you discover solutions and answers for yourself. We call this ‘enquiry- based learning’. It develops skills sought after by graduate employers who value creativity and independence as well as leadership and problem solving. We will support you to become an enquiry-based learner and use a range of teaching methods to encourage you to develop your own ideas.
Lectures and seminars
Lectures are intended to give you food for thought, and are an opportunity to listen to academic staff sharing their knowledge and discoveries with you. You are expected to build on this, carry out further reading around the subject and use your analytical skills to critically examine the information you are being given.
Seminars offer the opportunity for you to discuss your ideas in smaller groups and listen to other people’s opinions. Tutorials are carried out on a one-to-one basis or in small groups, and you can discuss your written work with your tutor. University life 9
Library facilities
Our students have access to one of the UK’s largest academic libraries at the heart of our Edgbaston campus, containing over two and a half million books and three million archives and manuscripts. A further ten libraries and resource centres cover every subject offered at the University, ensuring you have the opportunity to develop expertise in your chosen fi eld.
All students have free access to email and the internet, with dedicated computer facilities on campus.
Learning support
As a student here you have a personal tutor, who will help you to monitor and refl ect on your progress and provide help and advice with any study-related issues. You have regular meetings with your personal tutor in an informal and supportive environment. An additional range of support is available, from the welfare tutor based in your school or department, to members of the library academic liaison teams who can help you fi nd what you need from our extensive libraries, archives and other information resources. Specialised learning support services are available for students with disabilities.
Visit www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/ support/disability/index.aspx 10 University life
Where will I live? Different universities will offer different types of accommodation; so where you live while you are a student will depend on many factors, including what the university has to offer and what you want, for example: What the University of Do you want to share a If you really don’t want to go into The guarantee scheme is subject Birmingham has to offer house with several people? halls, most universities will help to conditions, however, which you It is a campus university Do you want to be in you fi nd alternative housing in will learn about if you apply. with accommodation on site a hall of residence? privately rented accommodation. It has halls of residence Do you want to self cater? It has catered and Do you want to be catered for? Accommodation at Birmingham self-catered halls Do you want en suite facilities? Our student villages (halls of It has a housing scheme residence) provide a secure and for undergraduate students, New kids on the block comfortable environment. There which allows them to live As a fi rst year undergraduate are student mentors at each site on site in their fi rst year student, if you choose to live to help you settle in, as well as all It has access to rented away from home, you are usually the facilities you will need, such accommodation nearby put into a hall of residence on as launderettes, shops and cafés. It has accommodation or very near the campus; so available within travelling you get to meet lots of people All study bedrooms have a distance of the campus in the same situation as you. telephone, which can be used to Some accommodation Some halls are catered and make internal calls to friends across has en suite facilities some are self-catered. The campus, free of charge. To give self-catered halls are obviously you fl exibility in the way you study, What do you want? cheaper because you will be in 100% of study bedrooms give Do you want to live away charge of buying and cooking unlimited access to the internet from home? your own food. If you pay a and University computer network. Do you want to live at home? little extra for a catered hall, Do you want to live on your meals will be provided With this in mind the University your own? for you as part of the rent. guarantees a place in Do you want to share a fl at University accommodation with one other person? to all fi rst year undergraduate home and EU students. University life 11 Having your own space tailor-made support service for The campus Settling down to University students living at home in the As Birmingham is a campus life can be a challenging time, local area. Like residence-based university, the campus itself and it is important you have committees, it organises sports becomes your own back your own space where you feel teams and social events such as yard. The campus has all safe and supported. We aim cinema trips and club nights out. the facilities of a busy town: to provide you with the right bars, cafés, shops, banks, accommodation where you can Private sector housing a hair salon, and its own study, eat, sleep and socialise If you are not eligible for railway station. in informal surroundings. University accommodation under the guarantee scheme, Living at home or choose to live off campus, Some students may choose you may decide to share a not to move into University house with other students. accommodation due to cost Housing Services will help you or family commitments. Living fi nd suitable accommodation at home and commuting to in the private sector, from the Help and advice University is a good option if you wide choice of properties All University of Birmingham live locally. It certainly doesn’t in the local area. We also Villages have a site manager, mean your student experience operate a successful fl at- assistant manager and site should be any different from search scheme, which enables co-ordinators; so if you need that of students living in halls students to get in touch with to report that something needs of residence. You will still have one another before they arrive, repairing, require help or have a access to all the same academic, allowing them the opportunity problem, there is always someone social and sporting facilities. to rent houses as a group. there to listen and lend a hand. The Freshers Off Campus Society (FocSoc), run by the Guild of Students, offers a 12 Student life >Student life - MORE THAn JUST STUDY<< Most universities want you to make the most of your time with them; so what you do in your Learn more spare time is just as important as what you www.sport.bham.ac.uk achieve during your lectures and seminars. The best you can be We have a School of Sport and seven squash courts Clubs and societies Your future employers aren’t Exercise Sciences (SportEx for grass pitches for rugby, Birmingham has over 200 just interested in your academic short) where you can study the football, cricket and clubs and societies for you to qualifi cations – they’ll be subject in great detail, which other sports choose from and they cover looking for a well-rounded and works closely with University a Cybex Fitness Suite an incredible range of topics experienced person who can of Birmingham Sport (UBS). with an extensive range and interests, including: contribute in many positive This means that we are pretty of cardiovascular and ways to their organisations. good in the sports arena. Our resistance equipment, Sports teams compete at a consistently as well as a strength American football That is why the other really big high level in inter-varsity sports and conditioning facility Hang gliding features of university life are and UBS is recognised as a Windsurfi ng things that help you develop centre of excellence for a range We also offer fi tness as a person, like sport, the of sports, especially hockey, assessments, personal Arts, Music, Dance, numerous clubs and societies badminton, squash, golf, fi tness programmes and Drama and Theatre run by students, music and the rugby, triathlon and athletics. personal training. American dance arts, and the activities and events Cheerleading organised by the student unions. Great facilities Sports scholarships are available Guild Musical Theatre Group Our high levels of achievement for exceptionally talented athletes. Sporting life at Birmingham require excellent facilities and Science, Technology As at many universities, sport we have some great ones The great outdoors and politics is defi nitely a big part of life at for you to enjoy, including: Birmingham also has its own Community Action Birmingham, from inter-varsity international standard water- outdoor activities centre in an People and Planet competitions (that means based synthetic fl oodlit pitches idyllic location on the shores Student Industrial Society we compete against other fl oodlit athletics track of Coniston Water in the Lake universities) to taking part in two sports halls and three District; any student can visit. sport just for fun or to keep fi t. activity rooms (including And that’s just a few of them! one for martial arts) a 25-metre swimming pool Student life 13 Learn more www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/ birmingham/index.aspx There is so much available for you to do as a student it’s unbelievable – but it’s up to you whether or not you take advantage of all the fantastic opportunities on offer. Student life can be as exciting as you make it. its mission ‘to enhance the If you can’t fi nd a club or society Students’ Union student experience’ is achieved The Guild’s Community Action that matches your interest, you When you go to a university, you through providing a wide range Scheme (ComAc) gives you can always get a few other automatically become a member of activities and services. the chance to get involved in like-minded people together of the students’ union. At your over 40 student-led community and start one of your own! chosen university your union Your fi rst contact with the Guild projects, such as working representatives will ensure that is likely to be during Welcome with homeless people and Music, arts and entertainment the views of the students on your Week – a week of activities to helping refugee children to We continue to invest in music campus are considered within introduce new undergraduates develop their reading skills. through a number of music the university itself, the local to student life. The week is scholarships open to promising community and on a national designed to make sure you The ARC musicians but we also have: level. Not only that but they take advantage of the discounts The Guild’s Advice and two symphony orchestras organise all sorts of fun activities available to students, get to know Representation Centre (ARC) is a Big Band and great entertainment as well. the campus and the city, make another service run by students a number of choirs friends, join clubs and get through for students. Services range a symphonic wind band At Birmingham, our students’ the process of registering as a from advice on housing, student a brass ensemble union is affectionately known student as easily as possible. rights and the law, to individual a chamber choir as The Guild, which is also support and campaigns on the name of its building. Get involved housing, fi nance, sexual health We even have our own art As well as our sporting activities, and study issues. Students gallery – the Barber Institute The Guild of Students clubs, societies and musical are welcome to drop into the – which houses an important Run by students for students, activities, you can also get centre to chat about issues in collection of major works of art, the Guild of Students is the hub involved in our student radio a safe, relaxed environment. ranging from the 13th to the of undergraduate student life. station BURN FM or the 20th century and paintings by student newspaper Redbrick, artists such as Monet, Manet, The Guild at Birmingham both run by students as part Renoir, Degas, Rubens, Picasso was one of the fi rst student of the Guild’s vital place at and Turner. Entry is free! unions in the country and the heart of University life. 14 Student life You have to work hard to get there: you have to work hard when you’re there: you have to pay for it. That doesn’t sound too good does it? Yet, every year thousands of young people like you choose to go to university and stay for three, four, fi ve or even more years of their lives. Why? Because it’s fun being a student! 10 You can see for the fi rst time what your future might be like – and it looks good Here are 20 reasons why it really is fun to be a student and why going to university can truly be the best time of your life. 11 You can learn lots of new skills that will help you throughout your whole life 1 It’s not like going to school at all – it’s different and much better, especially your relationship with your teachers 12 There are lots of people on hand to help you out personally and professionally 2 You have a really good reason to be away from home and no one tells you what to do, when to get in, when to go to bed 13 You discover things you never knew about yourself and when to get up 14 You gain loads of confi dence in yourself and your abilities 3 You really feel like a grown-up – an independent person with a life of your own 15 You fi nd out about all the careers that are now open to you 4 You are studying subjects you love and are really interested in 16 You become part of a great community of people and really feel that you belong somewhere 5 You have the option to study abroad for a whole year 17 You are exposed to all kinds of exciting experiences and get the 6 Lectures and seminars are fun and inspiring and you share them chance to do things you would never have done anywhere else with people who like the same things that you do 18 Even after you fi nish your studies, your university stays a part 7 You make lots of new friends from all over the UK and abroad of your life 8 There’s always someone to talk to and go out with 19 You may meet your future husband or wife! 9 The social life is fantastic – there are so many things to do and see 20 You collect fantastic memories and good friends to last you a lifetime Student life 15 Don’t just take our word for it PETER ‘It’s great to be able to study something you’re passionate about.’ LAURA Peter, BA in African Studies and Development ‘The University has given me so much… you can learn new things, try new things, work on your personal and professional development outside the boundaries of your course and change yourself for the better.’ Laura, Bachelor of Commerce student STEFAN ‘One of the best things … is the network you develop, the people with whom you come into contact and the ideas you can bounce around.’ Stefan, Computer Science and Software Engineering NICOLA ‘I have learned so much over the past few years, whilst gaining a great rapport with the lecturers and making friends that I will keep for life.’ Nicola, MEng Mechanical and Automotive Engineering 16 Careers >Careers - What can I study and where can it lead?>> There are so many subjects to study now in further and higher education and so many places it can lead that it can be confusing unless you know where to start – and where to start depends on whether or not you know what career you want to do. I know exactly what I want to do I don’t know what I want to do That’s great That’s okay – no problem You need to look at your chosen career and see You need to talk to people who can help you, like your careers what degree or other qualifi cations you need adviser at school/college or your Connexions adviser Next you fi nd a course that fulfi ls this for you and see With your advisers, put together a list of subjects you like and ones what entry requirements (a list of subjects and grades, you are good at, as well as noting your personal strengths and and sometimes additional things as well) you need to abilities (skills); then see what careers might be suitable for you get on that course at the institution of your choice When you have found a career you might like, start looking at Don’t forget to look at vocational courses, as they may be courses and qualifi cations: if you want to keep your options open, tailor made for certain professions, if that’s what you want go for more general courses and qualifi cations that would suit Aim to get the required subjects and grades and start applying to several different career paths rather than very specifi c ones that get on the course or courses you want at your chosen institutions only lead in one direction While you are applying, start looking at ways to fi nance Find the right course for you and look at the entry requirements your study, too (list of subjects, grades and sometimes other criteria) you need to get Keep it broad – don’t forget to look at vocational qualifi cations and apprenticeships or on-the-job training opportunities as well as degrees Aim to get those subjects and grades and start applying What if I can’t fi nd a career? for the course you want at the place you want Start looking at ways to fi nance your study if you need to Don’t worry – not everyone knows what they want to do or fi nds a career straight away. If you still want to get a degree but you don’t Careers and Employability Centre know what career you want to do afterwards, then go for the more general degrees with a broader sweep. For example – if you take At Birmingham, the Careers and Employability Centre has a variety a degree in English, Maths or Science, you will fi nd that they cut of services that will help you identify options, and develop and work across so many other subject areas that they are useful for lots of towards your career goals. They can also help you prepare your CV different careers. 60–70% of graduates go on to work in careers (curriculum vitae) and fi nd internships. Internships give you practical that are not related to the degree they studied at university. experience in a wide range of professions and can often be a key way into a future job. They can last anything from a week to a year and are a good way of gaining experience during university holidays. Careers 17 >>Careers - Subjects, careers and qualifications>> You might fi nd that subjects are grouped differently at university from how you are used to seeing them at school. Individual universities may also group the subjects they offer in ways that are different from one another, which may be confusing but don’t let it worry you! Here’s how we do it Engineering and Physical Medical and Dental Sciences There are many other areas within Sciences at Birmingham. Medicine (includes these subjects that you can study Chemical Engineering Cancer Sciences) and you will fi nd a complete list Arts and Law Chemistry Dentistry (includes of the undergraduate courses on offer at the University of Birmingham Archaeology and Antiquity Civil Engineering Dental Hygiene) (includes Egyptology) Computer Sciences Health and Population at www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/ courses/undergraduate/index.aspx English, Drama and American Electronic, Electrical and Sciences (includes Nursing & Canadian Studies Computer Engineering and Physiotherapy) Mathematics But, as we’ve said before, History and Cultures Visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ Mechanical Engineering you should also remember that (African Studies) university/colleges/mds/ Metallurgy and Materials 60–70% of graduates go on to Languages, Cultures index.aspx (related to languages), Physics and Astronomy fi nd jobs that are not related to Art History and Music Visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ Social Sciences the degree they studied. Next Law university/colleges/eps/ we will try and show you how Business (includes Philosophy, Theology index.aspx subjects link to careers. and Religion Accounting and Finance, Economics and Marketing) Life and Environmental Visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ Education (includes Initial Sciences university/colleges/artslaw/ Teacher Training) index.aspx Biosciences Government and Society Geography, Earth and (includes Political Science Key factors Environmental Sciences and Sociology) What you can study and where it Psychology Social Policy (includes can lead is also going to depend Sport and Exercise Sciences Health Management) on a number of key factors: Visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ Visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ the subjects you like and university/colleges/les/ university/colleges/socsci/ are good at index.aspx index.aspx your choice of career the qualifi cations you need to achieve it 18 Subjects >subjects - The statutory or compulsory<<< There are some subjects that you have to study for GSCE, but after this it is for you to choose the ones you want to do. However, further study of English, Mathematics and Science can lead to a range of careers; some of which you may not have considered before. MATHEMATICS If you love Maths, here are just some of the jobs you might consider: Accountant Banker Business Manager Economist Financial Consultant Statistician Tax Inspector Teacher ENGLISH If you would like a career involving English here are some of the jobs you might consider: English Teacher Actor Journalist Advertiser Librarian Archivist Proofreader Broadcaster Publisher Curator Writer Editor English is such a broad subject that it has an application for almost any job because it involves written and spoken communication and most jobs have an element of these in them. So a degree in English could be extremely helpful. Subjects 19 SCIENCE If you enjoy Science fi nd out more about the following jobs: Biochemist Marine Biologists Biologist Physiotherapist Chemist Psychologist Dental Hygienist Sports Scientist Dentist Surgeon Doctor Teacher Earth Scientist Vet Engineer Zoologist Environmental Scientist Geologist ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE (E-BAC) You may be encouraged by your school to follow the E-Bac pathway. This will involve you studying English, Mathematics, Science, History or Geography, and a foreign language, as well as a number of other optional subjects. This is a good range of subjects for future entry to university, but there are lots of other subjects that are also useful for the future. 20 Subjects >>Subjects - The entitlement or optional<<< It’s good to be able to choose the subjects you want to study and there are lots of them to choose from. You can do a degree in most of the optional subjects you will fi nd on your school curriculum, too. You can study them on their own or with another subject. Here are just a few examples HISTORY EOGRAPHY G History has always been a popular humanities subject and like Geography it has many potential areas of study from archaeology and ancient history to This is a huge subject and an extremely popular one at that because it is so the present day. With a degree in History you could be any of the following: Archaeologist varied and relevant to our world today. With a degree in Geography, you could Archivist go into any of the following professions: Curator (in a museum) Cartography (map making) Genealogist Climatology Historian Environmental Management Heritage/Historical Site Manager Land Management Lawyer or Solicitor Social Services Media worker Health Services Researcher Law Teacher Planning Tourism Guide or Manager Sales and Marketing OMPUTER AND C Writer/Publisher Surveying INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Teaching Tourism Here’s a subject you can’t get away from anywhere! It affects us at school, at home and at work. Water Management It’s HUGE! The computer industry is not only one of the most popular but it is one of the fastest growing with new technologies emerging all the time. This is where the big money is, if you are willing to work hard and go for it. Computer Engineer Graphic Designer Computer/IT Manager IT Consultant Computer Programmer Software Designer Electronic, Electrical Systems Analyst and Computer Engineer Web Designer Subjects 21 FOREIGN LANGUAGES Modern foreign languages are also incredibly popular and linguistic skills are very highly valued by employers. The entry requirements for many university courses often stipulate that you need at least a GCSE in a foreign language, but if it is your favourite subject and you are taking A levels in several languages, then you might want to become one of the following: Civil Servant Interpreter Linguist Financial Adviser If you combine Foreign Correspondent your language skills Language Teacher with other subjects Lawyer or Solicitor (European Law) like IT or Business, Local Government Offi cer Learn more Public Administrator you will be much For further information about subjects Translator sought after in and careers check out these websites: the jobs market. www.ajobin.com www.bbc.co.uk/schools/studentlife/ History has always been a popular humanities subject and like Geography careersandchoices it has many potential areas of study from archaeology and ancient history to ADDITIONAL SUBJECTS the present day. With a degree in History you could be any of the following: For advice on options for study in Years 10 Archaeologist There are lots of other subjects you can study that develop really useful skills, much sought after and 11 visit: Archivist by employers. So, if you do fancy something new and exciting, take a look at the following: www.connexions-direct.com Curator (in a museum) www.direct.gov.uk/en/education Genealogist If you are interested in science, you could If you are interested in the arts, andlearning/14to19/years10and11 Historian study for a degree in these subjects: you could study degrees like: Heritage/Historical Site Manager Environmental Management Classical Literature and Civilisation Lawyer or Solicitor Natural Sciences History of Art Media worker Bioinformatics (Biology and Creative Writing Researcher Computer Science) Music Teacher Medicine Religious Studies Tourism Guide or Manager Dentistry To help you choose the best course for Writer/Publisher your interests and skills – and to fi nd which And for budding athletes: Or, if you like history or languages: subjects you are best suited to study and Sport and Exercise Sciences Archaeology at what level, check out the UCAS website Sport, PE and Coaching Science African Studies below. Here you will fi nd some great advice Applied Golf Management Studies Russian Studies and useful tips. There are over 50,000 higher education courses you can apply for through UCAS; many of www.ucas.com/students/choosingcourses/ which you have not yet even heard of. Visit www.ucas.com to see the huge variety available. choosingcourse/chooserightcourse Happy hunting! 22 Finance < Many people worry about how much it will cost to go to university. However, help and assistance is available. The other good news is that you don’t have to pay your fees up front either. Support, loans and grants nine per cent of £4,000 – which Some take part-time jobs and There are two types of loans to is £6.92 a week. The repayment others take temporary jobs help new students cover the costs process is simple, as it is taken during holidays. Job vacancies of university or college: tuition fee automatically from your wages are usually advertised by the loans and living cost loans. through the tax system. students’ union and/or university, and are rarely for more than Tuition fee loans are available to Most universities also have a 16 hours per week during help pay the cost of your tuition range of grants and scholarships term-time. There are usually fees and contribute to the cost of on offer that students can apply jobs at the university as well as your learning at university. They for. Unlike student loans, grants within the local environment. are paid directly to your university and scholarships do not have to or college by the government. be paid back. Each university will It’s a good way to earn some have its own range of support; extra money but you do need to Living cost loans – sometimes so you’ll need to see what is be able to manage your time well called maintenance loans – are on offer and whether you are so that you can study and do your available to full-time students to eligible to apply for them. part-time work without getting too help pay for living costs, such as tired. If you have had a part-time food, travel, and accommodation. The website www.yourfuture.direct. job while at school, you will have gov.uk has lots of information about gained some good experience You don’t have to pay your tuition university fi nance. towards managing this. fee loan and your living cost loan back until you fi nish your course Supporting yourself Budgeting and have left university, and are Learning how to handle your earning over £21,000 a year. Part-time work money and manage on a budget You can of course support is a good skill to start acquiring You repay your loans back at yourself in all sorts of ways now – even if you are just a rate of nine per cent of your and approximately nine out managing your pocket money on income over £21,000. So if your of ten students fi nd paid work a weekly basis. Keep a notebook salary is £25,000 a year, you pay during their time at university. or account book if it helps. Finance 23 For more details of the The Job Zone Money Matters Never be afraid to ask scholarships on offer, visit: for help in managing your Job Zone, run by the Guild The University of Birmingham www.undergraduate.bham. money. You can get helpful of Students in partnership has a great website for you ac.uk/fi nance/scholarships. advice from your family and with the University Careers to visit to make sure that shtml other trusted adults but Service, helps you to fi nd a you have the right fi nancial also from your university. job to fi t around your studies. knowledge before coming This service, based on campus to the University. Have some and staffed by students, will fun and play the Money help you to fi nd a part-time Matters game where you can or temporary job. Vacancies experience a virtual life as a advertised are rarely more fi rst year student at Birmingham. than 16 hours per week Disabled Students’ during term-time and you Will you make the right Allowances don’t have to waste fi nancial choices? Come Students who face extra costs time searching. and fi nd out at: as a result of a disability may www.moneymatters.bham.ac.uk be eligible for help from their local authority in the form of a Disabled Students’ Allowance. Supporting yourself at Birmingham Grants and scholarships Birmingham has both a grant and scholarship scheme. There are also scholarships for studying particular subjects. For more information on all fi nancial help available visit www.as.bham.ac.uk/ studentlife/fi nance 24 Questions and answers >>>Questions and answers> I have a disability: can I still come to university? I want to come to University but I don’t think I will do very Yes you can and the Disability and Learning Support, and Counselling well in my A levels. What happens if I fail them or don’t get and Guidance services are there to give you a hand. We are here to very good grades? provide support for all disabled students at the University; support that There is always something that can be done. You could ask for meets your individual needs. Our aim is to help you to achieve your extra tuition and help in preparing for your A level examinations full potential while you are studying. We have teams of people trained at school or ask your teachers to take advantage of the University’s to help and offer support and advice: the Counselling and Guidance subject-specifi c support given to schools by our undergraduates team (visit: www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/counselling), and the who try to help pupils improve their exam performance Disability and Learning Support team (visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ (visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/advice/west-midlands- students/support/disability/index.aspx). schools/student-mentoring.aspx). If you don’t achieve the A level results you need, you can always go through Clearing (see page 33 for more information) or you could defer your entry and resit your examinations at a college of further education. I am really close to my family and worry about getting homesick if I go to university. Lots of students get homesick at fi rst but then they make new friends during Welcome Week and through the incredible number of events, clubs and societies on campus, and soon settle down. When the going does get tough, there are student mentors to talk to and we have a 24-hour No one in my family has ever been to university, so I don’t know student-run telephone counselling service. An alternative is to go to the much about it and don’t know whether I’ll fi t in. university closest to where you live so that you can stay at home; you’ll still Birmingham welcomes students from a wide variety of social and have access to the same academic, social and sporting facilities as those cultural backgrounds and is committed to encouraging more applications students who live on or near campus. For information about Welcome Week from families and communities who have little or no experience visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/currentstudents/welcome/index.aspx of higher education. Our Access to Birmingham (A2B) Scheme (visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/a2b) was created in 2001 to do just that and is designed to help students from the West Midlands fi nd out about what studying at university involves. A2B students will also be invited to an enhanced induction day before starting university to offer information, advice and guidance for the important fi rst term. You’ll soon fi t in as you make new friends and fi nd lots of things to get involved with on campus. Questions and answers 25 I love both History and English and really don’t know which one to study at university. What should I do? It is important to make the right choices about what subject or subjects you want to study and what degree you want to take at university, especially if it is specifi cally linked to your chosen career. However, if you can’t choose between two favourite subjects and you want to keep your career options open, apply to do a Joint Honours degree (see page 36) where you study two subjects for 50% of your time – or a Major–Minor degree where you study one subject for 70% of your time and the second subject for 30% of your time. I want to be an engineer but don’t know which area of engineering to go for. How do I fi nd out which area of engineering is best for me? You should visit the University on undergraduate open days (visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/fees/undergraduate) so that you can meet staff and existing engineering students. You can ask questions, get advice and see which of the engineering disciplines most appeals to you. You can look out for taster courses and masterclasses (visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/advice/west-midlands-schools/ masterclasses) to make sure that you have chosen the right engineering discipline for you – and we have a lot to choose from. You may also like to visit our engineering website at: www.eng.bham.ac.uk My family don’t have very much money but still want me to go to university. Is there any fi nancial help available for us? The short answer is ‘yes’. Financial support is available from the government and from universities to assist with paying your tuition fees and your living costs. Student loans can be used to pay for your fees and a maintenance loan is available to cover your living costs while you are studying. You only have to start repaying the loans once you have graduated and are earning an annual salary of more than £21,000. You could also apply to your Local Authority for fi nancial support, get sponsorship, take a health-linked course with NHS funding, and also get yourself some part-time work to help support yourself through your studies. See our fi nance section on pages 22–23 and visit our website at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/fees/undergraduate 26 Who’s been to the University of Birmingham? < Ben Shephard My experience at uni also Subjects studied: Dance and taught me so much about Drama: Sport and Recreation getting on with people Management (Joint Honours) from completely different Graduated: 1997 backgrounds to me – being Current position: Presenter on able to communicate ITV1’s GMTV programme and on with people with whom Sky sports; also known for Krypton I have nothing in common Factor, Xtra Factor, Dance X, – and also allowed me Dancing on Ice, having a cameo constructive time to really role in Harry Potter and the Half work out what I wanted Blood Prince, and climbing Mount to do career-wise. Kilimanjaro for Comic Relief in 2009 I had no idea what I wanted The fringe benefi ts weigh up I kind of fell into presenting: Once you have had the to do with my life when I left too! I met my wife in my fi rst I worked as a runner for the experience of presenting live school. Just over three years year and now we have two weather department and the television, you thrive on it and later, I had started work for kids. I have made life-long Weather Network in Hockley, you don’t want to do anything Channel 4 and my TV career friends who I still see now doing everything from buying else. It’s the most exciting, had begun. By taking a chance ten years later. They were presenters’ sandwiches to picking thrilling thing in the world - at uni, I met all sorts of people, the best years of my life and up their dry-cleaning. One of the there’s nothing like it. It’s experienced all sorts of things I wouldn’t want anyone to producers suggested I give it a go, terrifying because you have and was able to fi gure out miss out on that experience. so every now and again they’d let no safety net – you can’t do it what I most wanted from life. me practise presenting the travel again if something goes wrong I did a joint honours degree and weather when we weren’t – but that’s also the thrill of it. It’s a big commitment choosing in dance, drama and sport on air and I really enjoyed it. to carry on learning, spending and recreation management I hadn’t thought about being The other thing I enjoy money not earning, not getting so I certainly don’t have the a TV presenter before that, but the most about my job is on the career ladder. But unless background or training that once I’d decided that was what communicating with people. you have a cast iron idea of what many of my colleagues do in I wanted to do, I worked hard to I love meeting people from it is you want, which rarely if ever journalism or politics. Instead, I get as much experience and meet different walks of life, from happens, going to university learned the performance side of as many people as I could. There politicians to ordinary people could well be the single most what I do and being comfortable isn’t one set route into television who have had something important thing you ever do. in front of people at university, so the most important thing is extraordinary happen to them which is a vital part of my job. building up contacts and getting – every single person that to know the industry. comes in has a story to tell. Who’s been to the University of Birmingham? 27 Paul Manning Graduated: 1996 Subject studied: Earth Sciences (Geology) Current position: Retired professional cyclist who, after winning a gold medal in Team Pursuit Cycling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, was inducted into the British Cycling Hall of Fame and awarded an MBE in 2009 Living and studying in Birmingham Bearing in mind it is over ten Young people need to realise best lived up to my expectations years since I left University you that life is one long learning in the excellent education that realise that getting where I am experience and a good education the University provided. The today hasn’t been an overnight at school and university is an knowledge, enthusiasm and success! A lot of dedication important part of that. Today there is a much wider range friendliness of the personalities and focus on the goals in mind of places to do that study in my time there was really has allowed me to fulfi l my and a vast range of subjects infectious and made study ambitions; while the support of a to allow people to follow a a really enjoyable experience. well funded and structured sport particular career path or just has undoubtedly made it easier study a subject they enjoy. My education has no obvious link for me to achieve so much. Do some research and you to my sporting career as it was a are sure to fi nd something different subject area. However, I have really enjoyed the challenge that will excite you. it provides you with the important of working with a team of riders skills such as time management, aiming to perform to the best of goal setting and working towards our ability in major championships deadlines. In addition, being self over the years. suffi cient in your general life or career becomes a lot easier after spending three or more years getting through your studies. 28 How they did it >>>How they did it<< Four of our former undergraduate students speak about how they made their journeys from school to university. Daniel – Biosciences successful and useful scheme, which defi nitely has a positive impact Daniel, an A2B Biosciences student, on bringing local students to one of the major UK universities.’ graduated with a fi rst class degree and then chose to stay on at the University of Birmingham to study Dentistry as a postgraduate student. Daniel came from Cath – Law Baverstock School, a mixed comprehensive Why I Chose Birmingham in the Druids Heath area of Birmingham. To be honest, it was more like Birmingham ‘I found studying for my A levels and making my UCAS application chose me in the end. I didn’t do my research very stressful. Whilst at college I became aware of the Access to properly when choosing universities, and Birmingham (A2B) scheme and was encouraged by both my college so I ended up applying to basically where head teacher and the admissions tutor of my degree course to apply my parents told me to, which is a route I’d through it. never recommend to anyone now! It turned out when I went to start uni that where I’d chosen just wasn’t right. I’d seen the University ‘The A2B scheme provided several very useful experiences and of Birmingham before, with some friends who were thinking about outcomes. It gave me the opportunity to experience what being coming here, and it just felt right when I was here. The campus was at the University of Birmingham would really be like. I had two exactly what I pictured uni should be, the facilities were brilliant, assignments to complete; an individual written essay and a group I love the city and it seemed like a great place to be, so I just presentation. Working on these two assignments enabled me to naively assumed all universities were like that. Instead, I realised have an ID card for access to the main library and an academic tutor. that Birmingham had kind of chosen me, and if I’d visited the other In a way it provided me with my very own individual mini tour universities I’d picked on my UCAS form, I’d have realised much of the University. This demonstrated how important it was for me sooner that not every university just ‘clicks’ with you the way the to study here and encouraged me to maintain high standards of right one will. Because of this, I ended up applying during my gap committed study during my stressful revision period. year, whilst I was working. It wasn’t the best way to go about it, as I kept having to pop back into my old college to pick up references ‘Secondly the A2B scheme relieved a lot of stress during my and chase up information. As you can imagine, this would have A level examinations because upon successful completion of my been even harder if I was away travelling then, so I still often wish two assignments, my A level entrance requirements were reduced by I’d done my research properly and applied to Birmingham when one grade. I genuinely believe that this helped me to achieve A level I was still at college so I could have relaxed more during my year grades greater than I required. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time off, knowing that I’d got my place already through deferring. spent at the University of Birmingham. The A2B scheme is a very How they did it 29 Eleanor – English The main piece of advice I’d give to anyone considering uni would I started looking at universities when I was be to do your research carefully and thoroughly and talk to the about half way through my fi rst year at sixth teachers who teach the subject you want to do – they’ll have form college doing AS levels in English done the degree and will have loads of useful knowledge. Language, English Literature, History and Drama. I wanted to make sure that I was well researched so that in the end I applied for courses and unis that were right for me. Gary – International Relations I had always known that I wanted to study English with a view to and Political Science teaching it so I thought it would be easy to fi nd a course. On starting Originally from Cadbury College in my research, however, I discovered that there was a huge difference Birmingham and a former A2B applicant, between the same degree at different institutions. After looking at Gary graduated in International Relations courses and talking to teachers, I realised that I didn’t want to give and Political Science and was President up my literature or language studies which narrowed my search of the University’s Guild of Students during down to courses that offered both or joint honours. The UCAS his time here. website was really helpful with this, it gave me a full list of all the unis that offered both. Gary strongly believes that everyone has the right to fulfi l their potential through education and that the student’s voice should be Many universities I disregarded because they were too close to home, heard. He succeeded in doubling the resources spent on student too far or the grades needed were too high or low but it left me with representation while at the Guild and enjoyed being involved in a large range to look at. I spent a lot of time looking at websites and shaping student life at Birmingham. prospectuses for more specifi c course and university information. I knew I wanted to live in a city because home is a small town and He chose to stay on at the University, becoming a postgraduate that ruled out a few more. It was then that the course became the student, taking a part-time Masters degree in Local Government. full focus of my attention and I spent time again reviewing, right down He also began working in Training and Development for the National to module level, what I’d be studying at each uni. Open days were Union of Students as the West Midlands Area Convenor, helping really helpful and so were my teachers who sat and looked at courses local colleges set up and develop their own student unions. with me to see which ones would suit my strengths and interests. I eventually decided and sent off my UCAS form – it was really Gary’s university experience helped him develop the confi dence important to have done the research beforehand so I could tailor and skills needed to work in an area that really motivates him. my personal statement and send it off early. 30 Find out more >Find out more>>>>> UK UNIVERSITIES , HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS LEARNING AND FURTHER AND EDUCATION COLLEGES EDUCATION UK universities and colleges Useful information To search for courses at UK universities and colleges go to www.ucas.ac.uk The Directgov public services website (www.direct.gov.uk/en/index.htm) has Active map of UK universities and higher education institutions some really useful information for young The University of Wolverhampton has developed a UK active map of universities people about their education, learning and HE institutions (visit: www.scit.wlv.ac.uk/ukinfo) – once there you can click and careers (see: www.direct.gov.uk/en/); also check inside the map on the name of the institution you want to fi nd out about (or in the EducationAndLearning/index.htm right-hand panel) and you will be transferred to your chosen university website. out their special section for young people (see: www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/ Complete University Guide index.htm) where you can fi nd advice on For information on all UK universities and advice on which university qualifi cations, further study and careers. to choose visit: www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk DEVELOPING SKILLS FOR UNIVERSITY skills4uni If you have extended projects and assignments to do, visit our website www.skills4uni.bham. ac.uk. Here you will fi nd interactive activities, videos and resources, which help you through a project and also help you to develop the independent learning skills you will need for university study. Find out more 31 COURSES AND CAREERS CAREERS AND JOBS Leaving school, college or university Careers and educational opportunities Courses & Careers UK is a free service for in the UK and worldwide young people who are about to leave school, GET from Hobsons is a terrifi c site for young college or university. It provides detailed university people, giving information and advice about and college opportunities together with careers careers and educational opportunities at home advice, job vacancies, vocational guidance and and abroad. Visit: www.get.hobsons.co.uk gap year choices. There are also free electronic magazines and prospectuses available. Visit them at: www.courses-careers.com BEING A STUDENT If you want to know what it’s like to be a student IN BIRMINGHAM in Birmingham, visit: student_birmingham www.visitbirmingham.com/ more about being a student at the University or if you want to fi nd out of Birmingham, visit our You Tube channel (www.youtube.com/user/unibirmingham) to fi nd lots of information and great videos. You can also join us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ unibirmingham) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/ unibirmingham). 32 A-Z jargon buster >>A-Z jargon buster< Jargon is a type of shorthand language used by people who work in a certain profession that can be very confusing for people who don’t. Higher Education is full of jargon; so, if you’ve ever wondered what all those words, initials and acronyms mean, here’s your chance to fi nd out with our A–Z jargon buster. A B A level – Advanced level Admissions – the Admissions Assessment – this is the process Bachelor degree – the degree qualifi cation you usually take Offi ce of a university or college of measuring your progress by most students go for fi rst; it takes after doing your GCSEs and handle your application and looking at such things as your three or four years to complete and offered in a whole range of enrolment into the place; so that’s written work, exam results, can be taken in lots of subject areas subjects: you will need two who you need to ask for when you presentations and interviews. such as arts (BA), music (BMus), or three (sometimes more) A phone up to talk about getting in. science and technology (BSc), levels to get into a university. Assignment – a piece of work education (BEd), engineering Admissions tutor – a person, you must complete and hand in (BEng), and law (LLB): when Access schemes – some such as a lecturer, who decides by a given date for marking and your degree is awarded you can universities encourage young whether or not you will be grading; assignments in higher put the letters after your name, people from their local areas – offered a place at the university/ education are usually much for example – John Smith BSc. who normally wouldn’t attend college you have chosen; there bigger than they are at school. their institution – to think about is usually an admissions tutor BTEC – stands for the Business and work towards applying to for every subject or course. and Technician Education take a degree; it’s about giving Council, the body that validates opportunities to those people AS level – stands for ‘Advanced the BTEC qualifi cations (Award, whose backgrounds may not Supplementary’ level and is a Diploma and Certifi cate); the support their entry into higher qualifi cation you can take at the BTEC qualifi cations prepare you education: at Birmingham the end of the fi rst year of your A for work or for higher education. scheme is called Access to level course; so the AS level is Birmingham or A2B for short. equal to one half of an A level. Bursary – this is money you might be given as an award, grant or scholarship if you have the right qualifi cations and experience to qualify for it. A-Z jargon buster 33 C D Campus university – a university Civic university – one of the Degree – a higher education Diploma where everything you need is universities established in the qualifi cation usually taken after A new qualifi cation for 14–19 on one site, including all the 19th and early 20th centuries doing your A levels or equivalent year olds that offer a mix of buildings used for teaching, in major industrial areas and big and split into undergraduate or classroom learning, creative administration, facilities and living cities – and basically meaning fi rst (Bachelor) degrees, and thinking and hands-on experience. accommodation: Birmingham ‘of the city and its people’; postgraduate or second (Masters It can be studied at foundation, is a campus university; in fact Birmingham is one of them. and Doctorate) degrees. higher and advanced level. it has two – one in Edgbaston See www.directgov.uk/en/ and one in Selly Oak. Clearing – this is about putting Department – most universities educationandlearning/ the right person in the right divide their subject areas into qualifi cationsexplained City & Guilds – nationally place at the right time; it is a departments so students belong recognised qualifi cations in system operated by UCAS in to the department that teaches Dissertation – every student’s vocational (work-based) and August each year that matches their course; some universities favourite piece of work, a skills training but these are not students who have not yet been have colleges, schools or dissertation is a long (10,000- generally used to meet university placed – or have not met the faculties instead – some even word), sometimes very long entrance requirements, so terms of their offer, to a suitable have a combination of these, (80,000-word), essay that you need to check whether university (or other institution) but you’ll soon get used to it. contributes to the fi nal mark or the university you want to and degree programme. grade awarded for your degree. attend accepts them or not. DipHE – Diploma in Higher Core modules – these are Education; a qualifi cation Doctorate – taken after your fi rst modules that are compulsory, approximately equal to two years degree, this is any research degree so you can’t opt out of them; of a three-year degree; often (PhD, DPhil), that allows you to you just have to grin and bear available in vocational (work- use the title ‘Doctor’ before your it and accept that you really based) subjects like Nursing. name, or the letters PhD after it; need to know this stuff! some people prefer to use PhD after their name to avoid being mistaken for a medical doctor! 34 A-Z jargon buster E F E-Bac – this stands for English Foundation course – a one-year Further Education (FE) – Baccalaureate, which will full-time course that prepares you this comes after secondary involve you studying English, for entry to a degree programme education when you have Mathematics, Science, History in a particular subject; you usually taken your GCSEs; you or Geography, and a foreign take this when you don’t quite need Further Education language, as well as a number have the right qualifi cations or qualifi cations before you can of other optional subjects. experience to start the full-length go on to Higher Education. degree programme straight away. Enquiry-based learning – this Further Education College – puts you right at the centre of Fresher – a student in their an educational institution you your own learning, so instead fi rst year at university/college can go to after you fi nish your of sitting quietly and listening to is called a ‘fresher’ because secondary school education that someone tell you what you need they are new and fresh. offers academic and vocational to know, you are encouraged (work-based) courses; some to be active and go and fi nd Freshers’ Week – sometimes offer degrees validated (checked out for yourself – this way called ‘intro week’ or ‘welcome and approved) by a university. you become an independent week’ as well, this is the fi rst week learner and a great detective! of your fi rst term of your fi rst year at university and is packed with fun events and entertainments organised to help you settle in, make new friends and fi nd out everything you need to know about your chosen university and its students’ union. A-Z jargon buster 35 G H Gap year – this is when you Guild of Students – the union Hall of residence – Honours degree – most decide to take a year off after of students at Birmingham is the accommodation (living quarters) Bachelor degrees are honours fi nishing school or college before Guild of Students, sometimes for students providing kitchens, degrees, but a degree may be going to university; you might just called ‘The Guild’, which bed linen and other facilities: awarded with or without honours spend the time getting work is also the name of its building; some halls also provide meals depending on how well you do experience, earning money, as the fi rst purpose-built while others are self-catering. in your fi nal assessment; the travelling or doing something students’ union in the country, classifi cation of honours degrees else you really want to do. Birmingham’s Guild of Students Higher Education (HE) – after are First-Class, Upper Second- is the centre of University life; secondary school you can go Class, Lower Second-Class Graduate – (pronounced their main aim is to help students on to further education and then and Third-Class, but if you don’t ‘grad-u-at’) this is the name have a better experience while at higher education where you achieve enough marks to achieve you are called when you have Birmingham by offering a wide study for a degree or higher-level any of these, you are awarded successfully completed your range of activities, services, qualifi cation at a higher education an Ordinary degree instead. degree; for a few months before societies and social events. institution, such as a university. that time you are a ‘graduand’ HNC (Higher National (pronounced grad-u-and). HEI (Higher Education Certifi cate) – this is a vocational Institution) – an educational course roughly equal to two or Graduation – usually refers to the establishment that offers three A levels. ceremony where you are offi cially academic and vocational given your awards, but it can also courses and qualifi cations; HND (Higher National mean the successful completion some offer degrees validated Diploma) – a vocational of a degree, so you graduate by a partner university. course approximately equal (pronounced ‘grad-u-ate’). to the fi rst two years of a three-year Bachelor degree. 36 A-Z jargon buster I J K Independent learning – this Internship – a fi xed period of Joint Honours – a type of fi rst KS – stands for Key Stage; is about learning how to learn time spent in an industry fi nding (Bachelor) degree where you after Key Stage 4 you go for yourself rather than relying out more and helping with study two subjects, say English on to post-16 education. on someone else to tell you specifi c projects for anything and History, in equal depth; you what you need to know. from a week to a year. would study English for 50% of your time and History for the other International Baccalaureate ITE – stands for Initial Education 50% and your degree would be – (pronounced ‘back-a-law- Training and is a step you need a BA in English and History. e-at’) this is an exam, roughly to take if you want to become equivalent to A levels, taken at a qualifi ed school teacher. You the end of secondary education; can take the Postgraduate the two year International Diploma in Secondary Education Baccalaureate is recognised as (QTS), or the Postgraduate an acceptable qualifi cation by Diploma in Primary Education universities around the world. (PGCE Advanced). Study is usually for one year, full time. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – English test for those who do not have English as a fi rst language; it is managed by the British Council and partner organisations and is one of the most widely accepted qualifi cations by British universities. A-Z jargon buster 37 L M Lecture – an educational talk Masters degrees – once MFL – this stands for Modern given by a member of teaching you have completed your fi rst Foreign Languages and is staff to a group of students, undergraduate Bachelors degree, a popular subject at many usually a much bigger group you can choose to do a second universities; it might include the than you are used to at school. postgraduate degree qualifi cation study of French, German, Italian, and this is known as a Masters; Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Lecturer – apart from being so you can have a Masters and Chinese and Japanese. someone who gives a lecture, qualifi cation in the arts (MA) a lecturer is a well-qualifi ed business (MBA), engineering Modern universities – these person, perhaps even a specialist (MEng), science (MSc), are higher education institutions in their particular subject. philosophy (MPhil) and law that have been granted (LLM); however, in some subjects university status since 1992. Live in – living on campus, for you can also take a Masters example in a hall of residence. qualifi cation while you are an Module – a short course undergraduate – the MSci in taken as part of some degree Live out – living off campus, Maths and Physics, for example. programmes; some are for example in a private compulsory (you have to do them) house, or rented fl at. Mature student – older than and some are optional (you can most other students (above the choose to do them); a programme age of 21 in England, Wales that is made up of a number of and Northern Ireland or above separate short courses where 20 in Scotland) and have you are given a mark or grade for probably not come straight from each module is called modular. school; some mature students are very mature indeed and might be in their 40s or 50s when they take their degrees. 38 A-Z jargon buster N O P New universities – these NVQ – National Vocational Old universities – these are Personal development are any of the universities Qualifi cation; qualifi cations our oldest higher education planning – this is a means by established in the 1960s; the that are work-related and institutions, like Oxford and which you can record, monitor, term is also used to describe cover the skills and knowledge Cambridge, established between build and refl ect upon your former polytechnics and colleges needed to do a particular job. the 13th and 15th centuries and educational, personal and career of higher education that were historically linked to the Church. development; it can now be given university status in 1992, done online, too: at Birmingham or colleges that have achieved Open days – when higher we have an electronic facility university status since then. education institutions open their called >>Progress>> which doors to those who want to enables you to do this. Nightline – a telephone attend in the future; it’s a great counselling service, usually run opportunity to be shown around Personal tutor – a personal by students for students, with the university or other education tutor is there to help you and the purpose of offering help and institution and meet some of is responsible for looking after support with a range of problems. the staff and existing students. your personal wellbeing as well as your academic progress NUS – stands for the National Oxbridge – the collective while in higher education. Union of Students; run by (joint) name for the two oldest students, it provides research, universities in the country, Plagiarism – pronounced ‘play- welfare information and services Oxford and Cambridge. jer-iz-um’ this is where you copy to its members and is also the someone else’s work and pretend national body that represents it’s yours; it’s a sort of cheating and campaigns on behalf of or stealing when you don’t all students in the country. acknowledge the real source of A-Z jargon buster 39 R the information, and universities Professor – a very senior tutor Reading list – a list of books were founded in the industrial and colleges take a dim view of with expertise and experience and other material (for example; cities of England in the Victorian it – they may even prevent you in a certain subject who may be journal articles, articles on the era and which achieved university from completing your degree: the head of a department, often internet) that you are expected status before the Second World to see what the University of carrying out important national to read in preparation for your War – they are Birmingham, Birmingham says about it visit and international research work. degree course or programme Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, www.as.bham.ac.uk/study/ – BUT please don’t rush out Manchester and Sheffi eld. support/sca/plagguide.shtml Prospectus – a printed and and buy everything in advance; online brochure (a bit like a try to access the material fi rst Refectory – a posh name for Portfolio – a collection of your catalogue) produced by a through libraries and second- a university or college cafeteria, original work that may have to university or college advertising hand book shops and, if you’re restaurant or dining room where be submitted as part of your their institution (especially its not sure, check with your chosen anyone can go for refreshments. course assessment; it also facilities and life in the local university before doing anything. refers to the carrying case in area) and courses (degrees Reference – usually a written which you keep the work. and other programmes) to Reading week – a week during statement (although it can in encourage students to apply. term-time when there are no or some circumstances be given Postgraduate student – few lectures and seminars so over the phone) prepared by sometimes called ‘postgrad’ you can do lots of reading and a person who knows you, such for short, this is a student who studying for your course; it is not as a teacher or employer, about already has their fi rst degree an excuse for a week off – sadly! your abilities and character; and is now doing another this person is known as a higher one such as a Masters, Redbrick university – these ‘referee’ and they will receive a Doctorate (PhD) or a PGCE. universities may well be built enquiries about your academic using nice red bricks but the term and other achievements and ‘red brick’ originally referred to will hopefully say nice things six civic British universities that about you as a person! 40 A-Z jargon buster S Research-led university – Sandwich course – nothing universities have two semesters Students’ Union (SU) – research-led universities, like to do with bread and fi llings, and some have three terms. most universities and colleges Birmingham, are those where a although the principle is the same have a students’ union and very high proportion of staff and as the sandwich you eat; it is a Seminar – another form of you automatically become a students (usually postgraduates) four-year course that involves teaching at university, overseen by member when you begin your are engaged in research of 12-months work experience as a lecturer in which smaller groups higher education studies; these some kind with some projects well as academic study – so of students discuss and work unions organise and offer a being of international stature. the study is the bread and the on particular subjects together; range of helpful services and work experience is the fi lling. it is less formal than a lecture. represent all students at their Russell Group – this is particular establishment – it is an association of 20 major Scholarship – money Single honours – a type of also the name of the building research-led UK universities awarded to students with high undergraduate fi rst degree where the student’s union is formed in 1994 with the aim of academic achievement to help awarded for study in one main housed: SU – the abbreviation promoting the interests of these support their education. subject, such as Law or Medicine. for Students’ Union, also universities where teaching and sometimes abbreviated in reverse learning take place within a Self-catering/Self-catered Sponsor – a person or as ‘US’ – Union of Students. culture of research excellence; halls – halls of residence with organisation that accepts the they then share new thinking shared kitchens where students responsibility for all or part of Summer school – courses and ideas with one another – have to prepare their own meals. your student fees or expenses. and lectures held at a university Birmingham is a member. during the summer vacation; Semester – this is another Student societies – groups they are also held to give school word (American usage) for where you can get together pupils a taster of what life might ‘Term’ and is used to describe with like-minded fellow students be like at university. those terms that are about and have fun doing something 15-weeks long rather than the you enjoy, such as archery, shorter 8–11 week ones; some hang-gliding or chess. A-Z jargon buster 41 T U Tariff – the list of points you Transcript – a detailed list of UCAS – Universities and the word is derived from a Latin score for each of your Further classes or courses a student has Colleges Admissions Service, phrase meaning ‘a community Education qualifi cations, so taken at college or university, with the organisation that handles of teachers and scholars’. that with the right number of marks or grades for each subject. most university applications; points you can get into your students fi ll out an online UCAS chosen university to do a Tutor – an academic who form; UCAS then forward it to particular degree programme. supervises the work of individual the universities the student wants students (tutees); so a tutee to apply to – it also oversees the Term – the academic year in is a student whose work and/ process to check that no student universities is normally split into or wellbeing is supervised fi nds themselves with more than three terms of between eight and by a particular tutor. one place and it does try to twelve weeks long, with a long match students with vacancies vacation (about three months) in Tutorial – another university as effi ciently as possible. the summer. (See also Semester) teaching tool where a small group of students meet a tutor Undergraduate – sometimes Thesis – a dissertation (a very, to talk about their studies; called ‘undergrad’ for short, a very long essay) containing the some tutorials may be offered student doing their fi rst degree. results of an original piece of on a one-to-one basis. research to support a particular University – an educational argument, usually written by establishment for higher a student for their degree. education that has been awarded university status by Parliamentary Statute and which grants academic degrees at all levels, in a variety of subjects; 42 A-Z jargon buster V Y Vocational course – any Year abroad – a Year Abroad course that is intended to train can be one of the most exciting and prepare you for a particular parts of some degrees offered career or job; they often involve by universities; it means that practical work experience, or you spend one year of your doing projects similar to what programme studying at a goes on in the workplace: a university in another country; vocational qualifi cation therefore, it is especially good if you want is specifi c to the world of work to develop your languages skills rather than academic study. or if you want to work abroad when you have fi nished your studies – but not all programmes offer a Year Abroad. What difference will you make? www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/birmingham/index.aspx Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom www.birmingham.ac.uk