Introduction to Undergraduate Degrees

The UK undergraduate degree (Bachelors) is arguably the most internationally recognised degree qualification. A UK undergraduate degree opens the door for you to many opportunities - employment (more important, internationally), further study and even immigration.

Hundreds of different undergraduate degree programmes are offered at most UK universities. There are also many other qualifications that can be obtained including nursing and Higher National Diplomas (HND). HND programmes can be upgraded to degrees by doing (in the majority of the cases) two extra years at the university, depending on the institution.

The selection of one of the hundreds of courses offered by so many universities can be a daunting task. Let UniAdmission guide you in selecting the right course at the right university, all for free!

What is the degree format and how long does it last?
The typical English undergraduate degree normally takes 3 years to obtain a BA (Honours) or BSc (Honours). Joint honours degrees are also available in most departments. This can be single honours or joint honours. However, some degrees such as medicine and architecture can take as long as 6 and 7 years respectively.

Most universities offer opportunities to spread your studies over varying periods to obtain certificates or diplomas of Higher Education as well as degrees. Some of the universities are linked to accredited colleges that offer specialised qualifications.

The academic year generally runs from October to June (slight variation according to university),with some holiday breaks in between. These holidays are often long enough for a quick dash back home.

Many programmes are now being taught in modules. Modules are courses of study which are offered on a free-standing basis. One of the major benefits to students who are pursuing a modular scheme of study is the added opportunity to choose modules from outside their own degree schemes. All combinations of modules will be checked and discussed with your Adviser of Studies/Personal Tutor when you arrive at the university, and are subject to requirements of your degree scheme, timetabling constraints, availability and any other restrictions.

English Language

You must be proficient in the use of the English language, which is the medium of instruction and examination in UK universities. The minimum acceptable level of proficiency for admission to most programmes is: GCSE English Language (grade C or above).

Some courses require a higher level of English than others. Among these are medicine and law. The most widely accepted tests are:

• IELTS (minimum of 6 - 6.5)
• TOEFL (minimum of 550 - 600)
• UETESOL (NEAB) (BBBCC)
• CAE - Cambridge Advanced Exam (A/B)
• CPE - Cambridge Proficiency Exam (B/C)

If you have a different qualification, do not discount it, ask UniAdmission staff who will advise you whether your qualification is acceptable.

Foundation Courses for International Students
For those international students without the requisite entry qualifications, there are many colleges and special programmes run by the universities, specifically geared for entry to degree programmes at that particular university. These are generally known as Foundation Programmes. Not all subjects accept Foundation Programmes (e.g. medicine), but the majority do, such as Science and Engineering programmes and other degree programmes in Economic and Social Studies.

Teaching and Learning
In most undergraduate courses, teaching is by a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Tutorial classes consist of small groups of students where the tutor guides students in more detailed study of specialised topics and students will be expected to participate and produce written work. Seminars consist small number of students who meet with a member of staff for critical discussion of basic concepts, or to discuss a paper prepared on a particular topic by one of the group. Most science and engineering students spend considerable periods of time in laboratories or on other practical work, while many arts courses require more time to be spent on private study and reading. In most cases, students will have a chance to undertake a practical project, or to write a dissertation on a topic of their choice.

Most universities have facilities for students to use their own computers. Students can log into the university network from halls of residence or from private accommodation, subject to compatibility of systems.

Examination and Assessment
Most degrees, with the exception of degrees such as Bachelor of Medicine and the Masters of Engineering, are classified as First, Upper and Lower Second and Third Class Honours. Candidates who fall below the classified honours standard may be awarded a Pass degree, or sometimes may transfer to an Ordinary degree. For most degrees there is an examination either at the end of each semester, or towards the end of the academic year. This may be an integral part of the degree, or a departmental progress test. Written and practical work completed throughout your course may also form part of the student's overall assessment. The various method of assessing may vary according to universities and departments. Often these are course specific.

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