University study skills for undergraduate applicants
University helps you to go deeper into your chosen subject, broadening your knowledge and developing your skills.
The core skills you’ll learn on any undergraduate degree course include:
- independent study
- critical thinking
- research
Where relevant, many courses will also offer the opportunity to gain practical experience and on-the-job learning.
If this sounds intimidating, don’t be put off - there’s lots of support to help you along the way. And there’s also a long-term benefit. Research shows that a degree from a UK university increases a person’s net earnings by £100,000 or more on average over their lifetime (Department for Education, 2020).
University study skills for undergraduate applicants
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Independent study
One of the biggest differences between university and college is the amount of independent learning you will do. While your courses may involve lectures, seminars, workshops or practical sessions, you will always be expected to supplement what you learn here with independent study.
You will be responsible for meeting deadlines, conducting research and managing your workload. This will help you to demonstrate your time management skills, organisation and motivation - all great qualities that future employers will want to see.
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Critical thinking
Whatever course you are taking will require you to demonstrate critical thinking. This doesn’t just mean pointing out the flaws in an argument. It means showing that you understand the current thinking on your subject, and being able to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of what you have read. It’s all about having an open mind: asking the right questions, carrying out your own research, weighing up information and not being overawed by big reputations.
Critical thinking is an important skill in all walks of life, and can be extremely useful in whatever career you choose after university. At Manchester Met, we offer Academic Study Skills workshops to help you develop your critical thinking skills, alongside other academic techniques.
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Research
Learning to conduct independent research is one of the key skills you will develop at university. Whilst most undergraduate students won’t be expected to spend time working with archives, you will begin to develop your research skills. Our library has hundreds of thousands of resources for you to explore, including print books, electronic material and special collections, where you can find everything from Victorian memorabilia to art posters and films from the earliest year of cinema.
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Practical experience
Many of our courses offer the opportunity to gain practical experience in your field. We have extensive industry partnerships in the fields of education, fashion, energy, transport and health. If your course isn’t in one of those areas but you’re still keen to build your experience, our careers service can help to arrange placements and work experience, as well as volunteering opportunities.
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