How to Choose a University Program

6 questions that can help you find the best fit for you.

Choosing a university program can be a daunting task. A big challenge is not knowing what to look for and recognizing the differences between each program. But don’t worry! Answering these questions can help you find your perfect program!

1. What interests you?

Your interests are one of the biggest factors when considering a university program. If you have multiple interests and can’t pick just one, that’s okay too! Here are some great ways to combine interests at university.

2. Do you want to graduate with work experience?

Co-op or an internship is another factor you can consider. If you want to gain work experience and want to try out possible careers, you may prefer co-op. If you want your summers off or you’re considering graduate or professional schools, you may want to complete your degree faster. In this case, you may not want co-op.

3. How do you want to learn?

Most universities offer hands-on learning, which can include labs, field trips, student teams, study abroad, co-op and internships, studio courses, and more. This type of learning allows you to better understand concepts by seeing them in action.

When researching universities, keep an eye out for these learning opportunities. This will allow you to filter your list of potential programs based on whether they offer a more traditional classroom style of learning.

4. What are your high school grades?

Your grades and the courses you’ve taken will impact the number of programs available to you. Universities offering the same program can have different high school grades and course requirements. Based on your current and expected grades, you can check out programs that will work for you. Be prepared by researching programs in advance. You can then work toward achieving the grades needed for admission!

5. What kind of degree do you want?

Programs with the same name can differ between universities. For example, some universities offer computer science as a Bachelor of Science (BSc), a Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS), or as a Bachelor of Mathematics (BMath).

However, employers are usually more interested in your skills and experiences over the name of your degree. One way to tell which degree is better for you is by checking out the required courses for the programs. They'll give you valuable insights into what you'll learn during your university degree.

6. What other factors should you consider when choosing a university?

There are other factors such as location, cost, and reputation that you may want to consider when choosing a program. Here are some of the non-academic factors to consider when choosing a university.

One last tip — it might be useful to keep track of the benefits and drawbacks for each program in a single table. This way you can have an idea of what each program offers you. There is no single answer that will work for everyone. It’s based on your own preferences!

With all this research under your belt, you’ll know you’re making the best decision for you!