Parents & guardians
     

Choosing a course and university

Choosing a university or college course can be difficult for young people and stressful for you as their parents or guardians. There are thousands of courses to consider at hundreds of institutions, so where do you start in helping them with decision making?

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) has the most up-to-date information on courses. Its printed guides are available at school careers offices.
More on the UCAS website

Course information

For a copy of our undergraduate prospectus or DVD call 01642 218121.
Order a prospectus or DVD online

What to think about when considering a university

  • Does it offer the right course?
  • What are the entry requirements?
  • How much does it cost and are there bursaries and scholarships available?
  • How far is it from home?
  • Is accommodation available and what does it cost?
  • Is it a compact campus or is there travel between lectures?
  • Are there opportunities for work placements/overseas study?
  • How many places are available and what is the competition for them?

Types of course

There are three undergraduate qualifications available at Teesside - degrees, foundation degrees and higher national diplomas.
More about undergraduate qualifications

Where to find out more

  • University guides – available in careers offices, libraries and bookshops are useful for comparing universities.
  • Prospectuses – give details about courses, entry requirements and general information about the university and its facilities. They're available in most schools, colleges and career libraries or direct from the university.
    Order a prospectus online
  • University websites – offer the latest, most up-to-date information.
  • Higher education fairs – offer the opportunity to talk to representatives of universities face to face. Many schools and colleges organise visits to these fairs.
  • Open days – the best way to get a feel for a place is to visit it. Open Days offer a tour of the campus and a chance to meet staff and current students.
  • Discovery days – offer a chance to sample university life, attend a lecture, go on a campus tour and talk to staff and students.
    Open day and discovery day dates