Skills to Succeed at University

Get a head start with your undergraduate studies by learning key academic skills

This two-week course is designed by experienced educators at the University of Leeds to help you transition to higher education smoothly You’ll pick up top tips and first-hand advice on how to start and thrive at university from current students who came to the University of Leeds through different routes such as after completing a BTEC, A levels or as mature students

Explore time management methods

Studying at university is different compared to studying at school or college The biggest difference is having more control over how you spend your time and how you choose to learn

After you assess how prepared you are to start your degree using university-style scenarios, you’ll learn effective time management methods in order to keep a work-life balance

Learn effective note making

Independent study is essential in university and good note making will help you to retain information more easily, organise your thoughts, and plan for assignments

As you learn some effective note making techniques, you’ll hear how our students access support services and what to do should you need help

Improve your critical thinking skills

Critical thinking is a vital skill for success at university After understanding what critical thinking skills you need, you’ll learn how to evaluate your sources and explore a toolkit to help you question what you read

Master academic writing

Writing is a highly valued skill at university On this course, you’ll learn what academic writing is and how to do it successfully You will also get to practice yourself after seeing examples of undergraduate academic writing

Make the most of it

You will also explore the new and exciting opportunities that you can get involved with so that you can make the most of your time as a student

This course has been designed for students considering going to University or those that have been accepted onto an undergraduate course and want to explore the skills you need for a successful academic life

You may have just completed different qualifications such as BTEC, A level or Access to HE and participated in widening access to Higher Education programmes or you are returning to education as a mature student; no matter your entry route into higher education, this course will support your successful transition to university

This course is also a useful tool for current university students especially those in their first or foundation year of their undergraduate degree

This course is part of the Going to University collection which has been specifically designed for students at schools and colleges

Material from the course can be used as a teachers’ classroom enrichment resource