Choosing the right University

Going to the right University can really help you improve your chances of getting a job at the end of your course.  However, don't be swapyed by glossy brochures and false promises, here are some hints and tips for things to look out for when picking where to study your degree:

1.  Make the most of open days events at Universities that interest you.  It is vital to have a look around anywhere where you will be living and studying for a minimum of 3 years.  Do ask probing questions, try and talk to real students and don't get bought by freebies or jargon.

2.  Look at a University's ranking in the context of the subject that you are intending to study.  "Overall" rankings rarely tell the whole story as most institutions specialise in certain academic areas.  Don't risk ending up at a University great for something other than what you're doing!

3.  Search for student forums online to discover the true daily life of those that study at the University that interests you.  Facebook is ideal for this research and Google is of course a goldmine.

4.  Ask the admissions department how many graduates of the course you wish to undertake get jobs within the first 12 months of finishing their studies.  Watch out for truth bending on this one!

5.  Investigate whether "sandwich" courses are available which allow you to take a year out (often year 3) to work for a company.  This is a good route to a job in the industry that interests you and is widely becoming the preferred method of study for businesses looking for people to slot nicely into their workplace upon graduation.

6.  Already have a job?  Discuss whether the insititution offers a part time, evening or weekend alternative of the course so that you can further your career prospects.  Your current employer may even sponsor you if you ask.

7.  Ask the faculty if they have ties to local industry leaders in your subject.  Many Universities boast strong ties, if they do really exist other than on paper, you should take advantage of the networking this could afford you.  Just being a familiar face can have massive benefits long term.

8.  Discover if the course provides any interesting work placement opportunities outside of term time.  As a student you will have plenty of holidays that could be best spent doing interesting and exciting intern-ships abroad.  Not only can you have fun life experiences, but give your CV / Resume extra weight!

9.  Ask the University if they have any ties to local charitable and volunteer organisations, preferably in your subject area.  Aspiring lawyers can work pro bono for Citizens Advice services for example.  Giving something back is personally very rewarding, a great chance for you to develop the skills you're learning and is highly regarded by future employers.

10.  Call or email the careers department at the University you're interested in and see if they can arrange work experience for you, check your CV / Resume and assist you in organising a structured career path.  It's a great chance to get a head start and for setting long term objectives, which many students lack.