When it is time to leave school or college, there are lots of options to consider, including going into further study or training, for example on an apprenticeship or at university.
Going to university to get a degree qualification is essential for some jobs, for example, you must do a Medicine Degree to become a doctor.
In some jobs, a degree is not necessary and you can go straight into work after school or college, or you can do a work placement – sometimes also called an internship. Work placements are a good way to get experience and sometimes (but not always) they pay a wage.
There are several universities in Leeds and also smaller colleges which offer Higher Education courses (BA Hons and BSc Hons Degrees). Students of all ages can apply, if they have the right qualifications. All universities and colleges offering Higher Education courses (Degrees) will charge tuition fees. Fees are different for each university or college but are capped at a maximum of £9250 a year for Home students.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) website has lots of information and can help you decide what is right for you. UCAS is also the organisation that processes university applications (see below for more information about UCAS applications)
Choosing a university
It is important to choose a university carefully. There are lots of things to consider including:
- location.
- type of university.
- subjects you can study.
- reputation with students.
- entry requirements.
- course fees.
Discover Uni is a government website which shows you what students have said about each university through the National Student Survey. It also includes helpful information about university entry requirements and fees, and how many students have successfully found work.
It is also a good idea to look at universities’ websites and to visit on open days.
Applying for a university
Universities also follow a similar term time as schools and most courses usually start in September.
You will usually need to apply through UCAS and the deadline for applications is in January. Some universities may accept applications later than this. You can find out more on the UCAS website here:
First you need to decide which courses you want to apply for. Then you can register and make an online application with UCAS. There are different applications depending on what type of course you want to study.
When you have applied, you will be invited to the university for an interview with the tutors.
You don’t have to attend a university in Leeds; you can choose any you like. However, here is some information about the universities and colleges offering higher education in Leeds. They all offer different degree courses and many also offer training and qualifications for people already working in a profession.
Where you can study in Leeds
Leeds Beckett University
Leeds Beckett University is a large university approximately 30,000 students. It has 2 campuses – in the city centre and in Headingley.
University of Leeds
University of Leeds is the UK’s fifth largest university, with over 36,000 students. It has a large campus north of the city centre.
Leeds Trinity University
Leeds Trinity University is a smaller university based at Horsforth in North Leeds.
Leeds City College University Centre
Leeds City College mainly offers Foundation Degrees, which are 2-year degrees and help students develop work skills. Some of the courses allow you to study for an additional year to gain a full degree.
Leeds City College University Centre
Leeds Arts University
Leeds Arts University is a specialist university and offers courses in creative subjects (art and design).
Leeds College of Music
Leeds Conservatoire (formerly Leeds College of Music) is a specialist college offering Higher Education courses (Degrees) in music, including music production, song writing and classical music.
