How to choose the right course

Posted on 15/12/22

The first challenge of pursuing higher education is researching and determining which institutions to send your applications to. The importance of receiving a great education cannot be overstated, but it is also helpful to consider non-academic priorities such as location, the institution’s values and course flexibility.

1. Choose the type of qualification you need

Higher education gives you a choice between theoretical or practical pathways that take more or less time and financial investment. If you want a quick and practical way into the workforce, a Higher National Diploma (HND) might be a better option for you. Assignments done in HNDs are designed to prepare you for the workplace. This qualification is equivalent to the first and second year of a three-year university degree programme; it costs only £6,000 per year* and is worth 240 credits. HNDs are perfect for those who want to learn by doing. DGHE also offers ‘Top-Up’ courses, so you can do one more year to get a full degree at the end of your HND.

On the other hand, if you enjoy thinking deeper into the theoretical framework and want to pursue more of an academic or advanced-level career, a bachelor’s degree might be a better fit. Through our courses in Business Management or Health and Social Care at the bachelor level, you will learn how to do academic research, deliver good critical essays, and acquire important management skills. When determining the budget, it is kept in mind that degrees and Top-Up years typically cost £9,250 per year for UK Home students. DGHE’s courses are all eligible for student loans, and we also offer scholarships and bursaries.

2. Flexibility offered in the course study schedule

Depending on your circumstances, it is worth looking at the level of flexibility offered by the institution whilst taking the course. For example, those who are already working or have family commitments may require a course that fits your busy schedule. This includes evening, weekend and online lectures or the possibility of part-time study. DGHE offers most of our courses only two days a week to help accommodate study-life balance. The great thing nowadays is that higher education is available to all people from different walks of life.

3. Location

The location of the campus may also be an important factor in your choice. You can choose between institutions with facilities located within an urban centre or further out in a more rural setting. The choice should be tailored to your preference and your desire to pursue work while studying. While some students prefer more remote facilities with a community feel to them, others prefer a change of pace with facilities located near the city centre where there is a greater choice of career prospects, cultural events and transport links. DGHE offers a small campus feel, but it is also easy to reach using public transport as it’s close to many stations, including Aldgate, Tower Hill, Fenchurch Street and Liverpool Street Stations.

4. Consult current students and go to Open Days

Contacting current (or former) students is among the best ways to determine whether the course fits you. Some educational institutions have their own ambassadors that you can get in touch with and speak to. You can also approach former students with study-related questions on network platforms like LinkedIn or The Dots. Additionally, it is highly advised to look into upcoming Open Days. Doing so gives you a real in-person experience to accompany the mental image. You can familiarise yourself with the surroundings and meet other students and professors. This way, you can decide whether the education institute is somewhere you can see yourself spending time in the future. You can request to speak to a DGHE student ambassador today by emailing ambassadors@dghe.ac.uk – just let us know what courses interest you, and we’ll connect you with a student in that course.

5. Additional Funding

Before submitting your application, you should check if the desired institution offers any additional funding for which you might qualify. Several institutions offer bursaries, scholarships or fee waivers. DGHE has these for students from low-income families, veterans, care leavers, and refugees. You can learn more about those on our Additional Funding page. The amount of money you can receive or get deducted from your tuition fee varies, but this might be a significant factor if you are eligible.

6. Advice, Well-being and Career Services

Being a student and acquiring new knowledge and skills can be an enjoyable, rewarding and transformative experience for many. However, there are times when life and the learning process may become overwhelming and stressful. Because your well-being should always come first, it is crucial to determine what type of support you would offer. Some educational institutions provide services such as TogetherAll, a platform with well-being officers and support available around the clock. DGHE offers a suite of well-being services, including TogetherAll and an on-campus advisor who meets students in person and online. We also provide extra support for students with special needs. We have a page dedicated to our disability support services; check it out.

It is smart also to check what career advice and support is available to you during your studies and after graduation – once you are ready to start working. DGHE offers a Careers Advisor to all our students and alumni, which you can find out more about in the Career Services section. If this is something you find important, looking at institutions with a good student-staff ratio is worthwhile since they will provide a more personalised learning experience and support.

We hope this has been a useful guide to anyone exploring your options in higher education. If you have any more questions for our team, please contact marketing@dghe.ac.uk, and we will be happy to direct you to the right person. Good luck!

*The cost has since been updated to £8,900