How can I tell whether a degree teaches transferable skills as well as specialist knowledge?
Look beyond the curriculum titles and stated learning outcomes: check what students actually do in classes and how their work is assessed. In particular, look for opportunities within specialist subjects to practise and be assessed on writing, presentations, data analysis, problem-solving and collaboration. Use syllabuses to check the role of seminars, laboratory work, projects and internships, where offered, and ask for concrete examples at information sessions. Details vary by programme and year, and skill development also depends on how actively a student participates.
Key points
- Check syllabuses for learning activities and assessment methods, not only course titles or outcomes.
- Look for real practice in writing, presenting, analysing data, solving problems and collaborating.
- Confirm how seminars, laboratory work, projects and internships are positioned, using official information or information sessions.
Things to check
- Course content and available opportunities vary by university, programme and academic year, so check the latest official information.
- Even when opportunities are provided, the skills gained depend partly on a student's course choices and level of participation.