How you will learn

When starting a degree at university, it is likely that the learning style will be quite different to anything you have experienced before. It is helpful to get familiar with the differences and work out what is expected of you before you start.

University experiences will differ between different students, depending on experiences and expectations. Each academic area of the University also has the freedom to teach in the way that best suits the discipline and materials. We have identified some key areas that will likely be different from what you are used to.  

Undergraduate academic expectations

When you are coming from school learning to university, lectures and tutorials to be able to transition into a new way of learning.  

School versus University Learning
School University
Timetables Structured full-day schedules, no choices regarding times Lectures, tutorials and labs are set, much more free time during each day
Instructors Typically authoritative figures, more individual attention Expert academics, more personable, less frequent attention
Class sizes Small (approx. 40 per class), up to 1000 pupils per large institution Large (approx. 500 per lecture), 6000 new undergraduate students per year
Learning Taught a subject and guided on what to learn and how Independent learning, given initial knowledge and self-motivation is required to learn it

When you start, you may see that you are not the only high achieving and academically successful student. You will be evenly matched with your peers, and you may find this quite challenging. You may also find that you start comparing yourself with others and feel a sense of failure if you consider yourself to be falling behind. It is important to remember that studying at university is a new way of learning, and it can take time to develop skills within their new discipline.    

Postgraduate Taught (Masters) academic expectations

A postgraduate qualification builds on your existing knowledge in a particular field, allowing you to develop more advanced knowledge through further research and study. You will still have a schedule, but you will be expected to do more independent study than before. 

A Masters degree is just one year and you will be expected to adapt quickly and manage your time well. It is quite normal to feel behind in the first few weeks, and it is at these times where you would be expected to ask for support.

Postgraduate Research (PhD) academic expectations

At PhD level, you will not have any classes scheduled and will need to fully immerse yourself in reading from the start.

You will be expected to not just focus on your own research, but also learn new skills and develop relationships with supervisors, colleagues and scholars in your field. 

Your work may feel very personal to you as this of study requires a lot of self-responsibility. You will learn to welcome criticism and use feedback as a way of improving your work. 

Most supervisors expect good communication and regular updates and would prefer you to ask for help and support if you experience any roadblocks along the way. 

Your new learning environment will encourage you to build your skills and confidence in learning independently and will most certainly be different to what you have done before. You will face challenges along the way and this normal. It is your responsibility to keep on top of your learning and ask for help, guidance or support at the first point of challenge rather than let it become a big problem. 

Academic Support

In all levels of study, you will be expected to enhance and develop these important transferable skills and abilities relevant to your subject: 

  • Time management
  • Independent learning
  • Being proactive
  • Critical thinking 

Prepare for your first year 

Find out what's expected

Do you want to know how to get started with your degree and what’s expected of you? Or how does academia work and what’s your place in it? Or how to work towards achieving your best marks possible?

The Institute for Academic Development (IAD) can offer support and resources for students throughout their studies, particularly for those just starting their degree.

Undergraduates:

How to Succeed at University

Masters/Taught postgraduates:

Getting Ready for your studies

Academic terminology

You may hear some expressions that are unique to university when you start.

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