An undergraduate degree in the UK is the first level of higher education obtained at a university or other higher education institution. Also commonly known as a bachelor's degree, undergraduate degrees typically last three to four years, depending on the course and university.
In addition to the standard 3-year undergraduate degree, a joint or dual-honours undergraduate degree sees students split their time across two different courses. This means a more extensive choice of modules and increased job options after they graduate. A sandwich course lasts four years and involves spending one year at a work placement related to your field of study.
For a first degree, most Indian students undertake a three-year undergraduate bachelor's degree, featuring a combination of seminars, workshops and lectures comprising different modules. Specific modules are optional, so students can tailor their study to what they are most interested in. Some undergraduate degrees, such as science and engineering, can take up to four years to complete.
Fast-track 2-year degrees enable students to complete their undergraduate courses and find jobs much quicker. Other short undergraduate degrees include:
Neither of the above fast-track degree options leads to postgraduate study, but students can move into an extended three-year degree if they change their minds.
The below subject areas represent some of the UK's most sought-after degree types to study in the UK, offering diverse career opportunities and prospects for personal growth and development.
Business: A degree in business equips students with essential skills and knowledge for careers in various industries, such as finance, marketing, and management.
Law: Law degrees prepare students for a career in the legal field, covering topics like contract law, criminal law, and international law.
Engineering and Technology: This field offers degrees in various engineering disciplines, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, catering to the demands of the modern technological world.
Medicine: Aspiring medical professionals pursue degrees in medicine to become doctors or healthcare practitioners and contribute to improving people's health and well-being.
Sports Science: Students interested in sports and exercise pursue this degree, which combines elements of physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition to enhance athletic performance and overall health.
Computer Science: A computer science course focuses on programming, software development, and computer technology and prepares students for careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
Media and Communication: This field encompasses journalism, advertising, public relations, and digital media, enabling students to become effective communicators in the modern media landscape.
Design: Design degrees cover various disciplines like graphic design, fashion design, and interior design, fostering creativity and artistic skills for careers in the design industry.
Fees range from £11,400 to £38,000 annually, with an average of around £22,200. Undergraduate courses usually last three years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while they may extend to four years in Scotland.
There are specific entry requirements for undergraduate courses for Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK after high school.
Student must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognised Indian board with minimum marks and eligibility for their chosen programme and university. The necessary documents include a certificate for completing a 10+2 education, original academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, English proficiency test scores, passport and ID proof, bank statements as proof of financial funds, an offer Letter from the university, and a valid student visa.
Undergraduate courses at UK universities provide world-class teaching, state-of-the-art facilities and global recognition from employers.
International undergraduate applications to all UK universities are managed by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). As an official UCAS centre, SI-UK’s professional university consultants can guide you through the entire university application process.
If you wish to learn more about studying for an undergraduate degree in the UK, arrange your free consultation with SI-UK in India today.
An undergraduate degree in the UK typically lasts three years for most subjects. However, certain courses, such as an undergraduate law degree or some engineering programmes, might extend to four years. Additionally, if a student opts for a course with a placement or a study-abroad year, the undergraduate degree level can be extended by an additional year.
The most popular undergraduate degree can vary over time and across universities. However, business degrees, such as business administration or management, are often among the most sought-after choices due to their versatility and broad applicability in various industries.
Consistently popular bachelor's degrees in the UK include:
In the UK, 2-year undergraduate courses are referred to as the Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE), equivalent to the second year of a bachelor's degree or any Level 5 qualification. Students can complete the DipHE as a standalone qualification or use it as a progression route to further studies.
In the UK, a one-year undergraduate degree is known as the Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE). It is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's degree and is considered a Level 4 qualification.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end.
Rashmi Lakshanya Urban Development and Planning at University College London
