Before you apply to university or college, you will have to decide which subject or subjects you would like to study. First of all, you need to choose a subject that appeals to you.

You are in charge of your own learning at university, so you should take care to choose a course that you will keep you keen and enthused.

Think about your future career goals and check that your subject will allow you to follow your chosen route.

If you are hoping to become a lawyer, for example, then a law degree may be for you, but it is not always that simple. For instance, a media studies degree may not always improve your chances of working in television.

There are thousands of full-time and part-time courses on offer. Course titles can be confusing. Courses with the same name can vary in content, while some courses with different names can be very similar. Always check to see what courses are really about, and if you're in doubt, contact the admissions tutors.

It is possible to combine subject by taking a joint or combined course.

What subjects can I choose from?

Single, joint, combined or interdisciplinary course?

Single subject courses - the study of one subject in depth e.g. English, Law.

Joint subject courses - the study of two subjects equally, for the whole of the course with a subsidiary sometime studied in the first year e.g. Business & Computing, History & French.

Combined subject courses - studying 3 or 4 subjects during the first year, but normally specialising in two subjects later in the course e.g. many Arts and Humanities courses.

Interdisciplinary courses - the study of a number of subjects related to a theme e.g. Environmental Studies, Urban Studies, Modern Studies, American Studies.

DON'T FORGET - Subject combinations will vary at each institution and even single subject courses like English may involve studying a wide range of topics. Always check course structure before you apply.

To find out more look at the links below ...

Types of courses
Subjects you can study
Methods of study
Courses linked to careers
What subjects can I choose from?