Studying
What will my course be like?
A typical degree will involve a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and work-based learning.
- Lectures are presentations to large groups of students. It is mainly the tutor who speaks while students take notes and occasionally ask questions;
- Seminars and tutorials are held in smaller groups (perhaps a dozen students but sometimes less) and allow students to engage in deeper discussion of the lecture topics both with tutors and between themselves. A supportive atmosphere encourages the sharing of ideas;
- Many programmes also incorporate placements or work-based learning, allowing you to put the skills and knowledge developed during the degree into practice.
You will also need to spend time studying independently and this will require the development of study skills to help you to manage your time effectively, plan assignments, take notes during lectures and prepare for classes through the reading of set texts etc. These skills will develop over time and through practice and some courses include dedicated modules specifically designed to immerse you in the techniques for independent study.
Assessment methods vary between programmes but are generally either examinations, coursework, or a mixture of both. You may be required to make presentations, usually given to a small number of fellow students, or engage in groupwork. Some courses may also involve the assessment of a practical element of the programme. Take a look at the course information for an overview of the assessment methods on the specific award you would like to study.
How many hours a week will I be studying?
The amount of hours a week you will need to spend studying can vary quite widely and depends on both your choice of course and whether you study full or part time.
Many of the non-vocational degrees we offer on a full-time basis require attendance at university for around 12 hours per week, with around twice as much time required for independent study. No two subjects are the same, however, and each programme varies in how your time will be divided between lectures, seminars and personal study.
If you are applying for vocational programmes such as pre-registration health courses or initial teacher training (full-time or part-time), it is worth noting that these programmes require you to undertake placements where you will often be required to work the same full-time hours and shift patterns as professionals in this area.
We offer a number of programmes on a part-time basis for those wishing to complete a course over a longer period of time. Part-time degrees often require around 7 hours per week to be spent in lectures and tutorials, typically running across afternoons and evenings.
There are differences in tuition fees and financial support for full-time and part-time programmes and you may want to weigh these up before making a decision about which option is best for you.
What is the campus like?
Edge Hill University is based in a stunning, award-winning 160-acre campus located in the heart of the North West, close to Liverpool, Manchester and Preston.
£130m has been invested on campus developments in the last decade. Whichever course you choose, you will be taught in a modern, inspiring learning environment, combining contemporary, state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard resources.
A wide range of convenient and essential amenities are available on-site including the £14m Student Hub opened in 2011, offering dining, retail and social spaces. The integration of the Student Hub with the traditional Main Building is reflected across the campus where historic architecture and gardens combine with fantastic modern spaces to study and socialise.
You can see the Ormskirk Campus for yourself by booking a place on our next open day.
How will I be supported on the course?
We offer a comprehensive support service covering all aspects of student life.
A personal tutor will be your first point of contact for queries and concerns. You will also have access to the range of support provided by Student Services, including finance and welfare advisers, a health and wellbeing facility, and confidential counselling service. We also have a dedicated careers centre which can offer expert help in finding employment, putting together a CV or just receiving general careers advice and guidance.
The University Library and Learning Innovation Centre offer access to high-quality, cutting-edge learning resources including 230,000 books and DVDs, 15,000 e-journals, over 100 online databases, 54,000 e-books and extensive IT provision. Helpdesk support is available.
There is a dedicated Inclusion Team to support students with a range of needs arising from physical or sensory impairments, mental health needs or other disabilities, while support for students with particular learning difficulties is provided by our Skills Development and SpLD Team.
You will receive support throughout your time at Edge Hill University, beginning with pre-entry advice and guidance, if required, before you apply for a course, and extending beyond graduation through our careers centre and alumni network.
