They want to study X but I really want them to study Y. How can a parent support university choices?

It is great that your child has shown an interest in a specific course. Students tend to do better when they have a genuine interest in the subject and when they are enthusiastic about the course they have chosen.

Your child will spend a great deal of time on their degree studies - usually three or four years and a great deal of money along the way too! It is a huge investment for them as well as you in a supporting role. Below are a few things to remember when discussing course choices with the young person you support.

Many courses offer a placement opportunity which provides students with industry work experience. Some courses have the option of studying abroad as part of the course as well. These different modes of study provide invaluable levels of transferable skills which will broaden career opportunities after graduating.

Some courses, such as Law, can lead straight into a career, whereas others do not have a direct career path on graduation. For example, studying History at university may not have a direct career path in the same way Law does, but a History graduate can still go on to train as a lawyer.

Staying with our History and Law example, History graduates are highly valued within the legal profession due to their strong analytical and critical reasoning skills. As a parent or guardian, it is worthwhile to look beyond the course title and look at the contents of the course to gain a better understanding of the skills and experiences that will be gained.

Visiting a university open day, either in-person or virtually is a good idea to explore a subject further. It provides you and your child the opportunity to speak to both academics and current students, and explore the subject area in greater depth.

As a parent or guardian, it is worthwhile to look beyond the course title and look at the contents of the course to gain a better understanding of the skills and experiences that will be gained.