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.

Struggling to decide what career you should embark on?  If you are recently graduated or looking for a career change, you should consider the following advice:

1.  What is the level of job satisfaction in the role that you seek?  Is this really the "dream" job you imagine it to be?  Talk to people in the industry, attend recruitment fairs and read career specific publications in order to get a feel for how the job really is.

2.  Are your qualifications and skills adequate for the job that you want?  Will it require further training?  If so, you should consider whether extra study can fit into your life.  Another consideration is cost, would a potential employer pay for this?  Sometimes this can be the case, but not always.

3.  Look to get a foot in the door and some exposure to the realities of day to day work in your chosen career.  Do this by applying for intern-ships, work placements etc, it can give you a valuable insight into whether you should pursue your dream.

4.   Choose the path you want to take based upon what you are interested in and the skills you possess.  Do not rely upon the advice of career counsellors.  Make your own decisions, you know yourself best.

5.  Set yourself realistic goals. Whilst you should aim high, don't set your sights on something completely unattainable based on your circumstances.

6.  Use the connections you have already made in life to explore different roles, even if just in conversation.  Many of your friends will know, be married to or be the children of interesting people. Tap into this knowledge, something interesting might come of it.

7.  Resist using recruitment/career agencies to "find" you a new career.  Take the time to write a well researched letter/email to a person at a company that interests you.

8.  Don't overlook opportunities immediately open to you for the sake of all out change.  If you are currently bogged down in your current job, look for promotions or different roles that might be more rewarding within the same business.

9.  Education is important, but an interest and appreciation for what you want to do can take you places.  Furthermore, additional non-classroom knowledge shows a dedication to potential employers.

10.  Be honest when it comes to pay/salary.  You will need a job that will pay your bills as well as keeping you happy!