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University Degree Courses Frequently Asked Questions

Which Course?

This usually is the most difficult part and requires some serious thinking from your part. We will be happy to discuss your options, but we expect you to make the final decision.

Depending on your qualifications, the following are the different types of degrees that you can apply to:

Undergraduate Degrees

Undergraduate degrees or first degrees lead to the award of bachelor status (e.g. BA, BSc, BEng, LLB, etc.), and usually take three years to complete. They can be single (where a single subject is studied with a wide variety of topics); joint (where two subjects are studied with a wide variety of topics - but don't worry it still takes three years and you don't do twice as much work); combined (where components from any number of single degrees can be put together); modular(where students structure their own degrees).

The entrance requirements vary depending on the university and the course. Almost all universities will require certain grades at A-Levels or equivalent (such as baccalaureate). Your application can have three outcomes: a non-conditional offer (where you are accepted with no conditions); a conditional offer (where you are expected to achieve certain grades to be accepted); a rejection (which means that you will no longer be considered by that university). For the vast majority of degree courses you need to complete one application form (UCAS form) where you may select up to six choices.

Graduate/Postgraduate Degrees

Graduate and Postgraduate courses vary between higher degrees by instructions (e.g. MA, MSc, MEng, MBA, Postgraduate Diploma, etc.), and higher degrees by research (e.g. PhD, MPhil, etc.).

PhD/DPhil (doctorate)degrees usually take three years to complete and are assessed by a thesis (up to 100,000 words) and an oral exam. The entrance requirement is a good first degree or a master's degree. MPhil (master's) degrees are essentially similar but take less time to complete (two years for a thesis of 60,000 words).

Taught master's degrees involve a series of advanced taught courses that normally take one year and are assessed by an examination and a thesis. Many are specifically designed as 'conversion' courses for those from unrelated degree disciplines (so don't worry if your first degree was different).

University Foundation Programme

A university foundation programme is a one year full-time course which offers students an alternative entry route to undergraduate degrees. On successful completion of the course, students can gain entry to a wide range of universities and courses.

Which University?

This is another tough decision. Some of the considerations include: academic reputation, strength in your chosen subject, competition for places, location, and accommodation. Tuition and fees vary a little between universities for the same course.

We will send you a list of all universities that offer your subject and help you choose.

Why Compasses Education?

Did you know that more than 50,000 overseas students apply to UK universities, and around half of them get rejected? We have a perfect record in placing students at UK universities.

What To Do

First Step is to download, fill up and send us the information request form. You can also e-mail us at: