Student Life
Student life at university is a mix of the academic and social.
Academic Life
Academic life at University comprises lectures, labs, tutorials, self-study and, of course, assessment and examinations. The amount of time you spend in classes depends on the subject and/or course you have chosen and will vary from year to year.
Typically, for full-time students, the timetable will include lectures, tutorials and labs. Lectures usually last for 1 to 2 hours and are the backbone of learning and explain the theory of a subject. Lecture class sizes can vary from 30 to 250 students. Tutorials (1 - 2 hours) are smaller classes allowing more interactivity with the lecturer and fellow students. Here, you ask the tutor questions, have in-depth discussion and further explore the subject. Labs (2 -3 hours) provide you with hands-on practical experience of a subject. This is where you really turn theory into practice. Whether it be a science lab, engineering lab or a computing lab, you'll learn the practical aspects of the subject.
The total time you will spend in classes, whether they are lectures, tutorials or labs, will be around 15 - 20 hours per week. You are expected to supplement this with self-study of around the same time.
Examination and assessment varies depending on the subject or course you are studying. Some subjects contain only end of trimester examinations, while others can be a mixture of continuous assessment throughout the trimester plus coursework (e.g. essay).
The prospect of university study can seem daunting, but the University provides all the help and support you will need to make your academic time at university successful. Our Centre for Learning and Teaching provides classes and support on all aspects of academic life, from how to take notes in a lecture, to examination study skills.
Social Life
It is important to strike a balance between academic studies and social life to let you relax and unwind. During your time at University you'll meet many new people, hopefully increase your circle of friends and you'll have the opportunity to get involved in many new pursuits.
The Students' Association offers many clubs, societies and interest groups. Whether you want to tee off on the golf course, kick off on the football pitch, or mouth off in one of the debating societies, there should be something for everyone. And if there isn't, you can start your own society or club (as long as you get enough like-minded people to join!).