How easy is it to switch courses once I’m at university?
It is possible to switch courses at uni – but not always straightforward. It can be easier to put the time in now and make sure you’ve made the right choice...
Before you commit to a course, imagine yourself studying it for the next few years – search for a course on The Uni Guide to see how current students rate it as well as potential modules.
Even if the course looks great before you start, there's still a chance things might not work out as you planned.
So, can you switch? We asked a few universities to find out.
- Read more: what is the Russell Group?
Can I switch to another course in my uni?
Whether or not you'll be able to switch courses will likely depend on a few things, such as the course you're studying, the one you want to take instead and the university you're at.
It can be easier to switch courses within the same department as they could share some modules – but there would need to be enough space left for you to join.
But if you want to take a completely different degree, the chances are you'll probably have to retake the first year.
The sooner you decide, the better – you might be allowed to catch-up if you try to switch during the first term of your first year.
Switching to an entirely different subject, though, usually requires students to re-commence the degree programme in the first year. There is no guarantee that this will be possible as they will be considered alongside Ucas applicants.
- Explore our subject guides to find example modules, job possibilities and more
Can I transfer to another university?
While transfering universities after you've started might sound tough, it can actually be done during your first year – but there will need to be enough space on the course and you have to meet the entry requirements.
It will vary based on the university, but you could switch after your first semester (the equivalent to half an academic year) if you've got enough credits from your current university.
Basically, you have to be completing the work you've been given on your current course in order to be up to pace when you switch universities.
As we run on a semester basis rather than in terms, the timing of transfers can be quite delicate as students will need to present a certain number of credits by the start of the semester.
Don’t rely on the possibility of switching
So it's possible to change your course – or even your university – but there aren't any guarantees. A few things would have to go in your favour, like the timing of your switch and there being enough places left for you to join.
It would be even harder if you're studying a competitive course like medicine. It's a good idea to have a back-up plan in case you can't secure a switch.
You could stay on your current course for a bit longer to see if things work out, or – if you're really unhappy with your course – you could consider dropping out and starting again somewhere else next year.
Where transfers can be accommodated, the general rule is the earlier the better - there is obviously a point beyond which too much teaching has been missed.
- Read more: how do universities view gap years?
