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Location More Important Than Course for Students

Four in ten students do not consider the course as a top priority when applying for university.
Education, Lifestyle - 26 October 2011   Download IconContent available for download:  
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Choosing a university is a life changing decision for all potential students, but latest research has revealed that surprisingly almost four in 10 students have admitted that when choosing a university, the course they chose to study for three years is not their top priority, and less than half (47%) consider the reputation of the university.

Almost a third (31%) of students were motivated to choose a university purely because it was close to home and 29% would go to university solely for the experience. However, gaining qualifications (68%), improving job prospects (53%) and earning potential (44%) are also important considerations for many.

Latest research has revealed some interesting trends when it comes to applying for university. Students from a Grammar School background are more likely to apply to universities further away from home. Males are more likely to apply further (85 mile average) away than females (67 miles average), despite more females are accepted at the furthest distance.

. Introduction:

Ahead of the forthcoming £9,000 university fees, going to university is a life changing decision, but what should influence your decision? Course? Reputation? Social Life? Or Location? All of these are important factors, but latest research has revealed that surprisingly many students are not concerned about the course they chose to study for three years, and many don’t consider the reputation of the university.

So, with location rising higher and higher on the list of priorities for students, what should the top concerns be?

Joining us to discuss this further is David Alder, an expert in Higher Education from Bristol University.

. Suggested Questions:

What does the research reveal about reasons for going to university in our area?

What are the consequences of choosing the wrong university?

Is location important to many students?

So, what should students actually bear in mind when they are choosing a university?

What advice do you have for potential students who are

Where can we find out more information?