Some people know exactly what they want to do when they leave school. Most don’t. 

So how on earth do you make sure you choose the right course when there are over 600,000 college and university higher level courses to pick from?

First of all, it’s important that you choose a subject that interests you; unless you want to work in a specialist area, such as medicine or law, many employers will accept any higher level qualification in any subject as evidence of your capability.

Secondly, studying at college and university is very different from school – you are responsible for your own study, so you need to make sure you are excited by what you're learning.

So before you make any decisions, ask yourself the following: 

• What are my academic strengths and weaknesses?
• Why do I enjoy particular subjects?
• What are my long-term career aspirations?
• Are there a number of different courses available in a particular field?
• Will I gain transferable skills from my course?

Once you have answered these questions, you will be able to research courses that you know you will enjoy, in subjects that you are good at, and that will hopefully lead to a fulfilling career.

Connexions Direct has an excellent online resource which can help you with your post-16 options. Click here for details.

Useful websites
There are a number of websites that have details of higher education courses, different institutions and opportunities that are available. You may find the following useful:

www.yourfuture-eastmidlands.co.uk will help you plan your progression and give you information on careers and courses at higher education institutions throughout the East Midlands.

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) This link takes you directly to the course search page on the UCAS site, where there is an alphabetical listing of all courses. From here you will be able to find course details, universities and colleges offering particular subjects, entry qualifications, contact details and other information.

Hotcourses can be used to search and apply for courses in the UK.

Course Finder allows you to search for a course either by subject or university.

Recognised UK degrees provides information on those institutions offering bona fide UK degrees. It also gives warnings about 'bogus' degrees advertised by unofficial organisations.

The National Bureau for Students with Disabilities (SKILL) provides information which can help people with disabilities to choose where to study.