Adapting to University Life

Looking after you

During the application process you will encounter phrases and words such as semesters, modules, methods of assessment, etc, which may sound bewildering and a little intimidating. Due to the care we take to ensure that students settle rapidly and successfully to academic work there is, in reality, little to fear. The government's higher education funding councils published statistics show that Aberystwyth has one of the lowest drop out rates of all UK universities.The transition to university, whether from school or college, home life or job, is a challenge. Thus from your first days at Aberystwyth efforts are made to ensure that your introduction to university is easy and stress free.

 

Your first week

A special induction period for all new students is organised for your first few days at Aberystwyth. During this you will be given an introduction to your Department, to the academic, social and cultural facilities available to you and to the study skills which will help you make a success of your chosen course.

 

Study Skills

Throughout your studies at Aberystwyth you will be given the opportunity to acquire abilities that will help you in the world of work. These transferable skills include communication, time management, computing and presentational skills. Skills are taught as part of your general degree scheme and many departments offer distinct professional skills modules.

 

Personal tutors

A Personal Tutor is assigned to you to ensure that your academic progress is satisfactory. Your Personal Tutor can also be a source of advice on personal problems or can refer you to other experts who will assist you with particular problems.

 

Your views are important to us

A key feature in the assessment of teaching quality is your views on a wide variety of issues ranging from the course syllabus to the quality of lecturers. We value our students' views very highly and each department circulates questionnaires to students to gain their opinions. Internal procedures ensure that steps are taken to resolve any problems highlighted in these questionnaires. You will also be represented on many of the University's important committees. Each Department has a Staff-Student Consultative Committee through which your views will have a direct input into the Department's teaching.

 

Your rights

The University has published a Charter for students which clearly explains your rights as a student.