Studying at the University of Exeter

Preparing to study

You may not have studied in the UK before. Although you will have to satisfy certain academic requirements to receive an offer we would recommend that you do some pre-arrival research into UK study methods too. There is an excellent web resource prepareforsuccess. org.uk with interactive modules to give you an insight into study in the UK. Your Faculty may also send you some discipline specific preparatory materials before arrival.

Study methods

While you are studying at the University of Exeter, you will experience several different methods of teaching and learning. You will be required to read widely around a topic and research it thoroughly, to reflect on the ideas you have encountered and to analyse and describe them. You may be familiar with some or all of the learning activities described below, each of which serves a valuable purpose. In each case you might see tutors and peers face to face, on campus, or online.

Our modules carry a different number of credits but, for instance, a 15 credit module will require 150 hours of total study through a combination of methods detailed below.

Lectures

Lectures are the most traditional form of teaching. They allow lecturers to teach a large number of students (up to 400). Even if notes are provided, you should listen carefully and make your own notes of the important points. You may also be directed to online resources associated with the lecture.