Choosing a module

Choosing a module

One of the major attractions of the BA, BSc (Hons) degree at University of Worcester is that it allows you to choose from a wide range of modules both within and outside of your chosen subject/s. As with most things, however, there are pros and cons to this level of flexibility. The pros are that you can shape your degree to reflect your interests, enhance your employability or choose modules that will enable you to attend classes around other commitments such as paid employment, your family or social life. The cons are, if you are not careful, you could end up with a degree that fails to demonstrate a logical progression or one that lacks focus.


Mandatory modules 

Some modules are mandatory; this means that you will have to select them. If you really don’t want to do them it may be worth considering changing pathways or courses. Contact a Programme Advisor. They will be able to discuss your options and explain any implications making such changes may have. Details of which modules are mandatory can be found in your course handbook and on the SOLE page.


When to select modules?

Each year Registry Services sets a date when continuing or returning students can select their modules. Further information on this can be found on your SOLE Page. Go to “Course information” select “Personal Module Selection,” and then, “Select Modules”.  Course Information will also include details of the deadline for Module choice.

Module availability

To find out the availability of modules refer to “Module Availability" and your Personal Module Directory. These are available via your SOLE Page.

If you are not sure which modules to select you can consult a Programme Advisor. Your Academic Tutor and Careers Advisors can also offer you advice on which modules might be the most appropriate or useful for particular Careers or Postgraduate study. 


Ways of choosing

  • If you have a particular career in mind it might be worth contacting one of the Careers Advisors to ask whether they feel certain modules would be more appropriate than others. Person Specifications and Job Descriptions of the types of jobs that you would be interested in applying for when you leave university can also provide a useful starting point in highlighting essential or desirable skills. Certain modules may enable you to demonstrate these more effectively than others.
  • You might want to concentrate on the now rather than careers for the future and pick modules that you know you will enjoy or ones that are of particular interest.
  • Some modules naturally follow on from others and if you have enjoyed them or have done well in the first one, choosing the second one is usually a good move. Do remember though that despite your degree being made up of different modules, all of them regardless of subject, interconnect enabling you to transfer knowledge, skills and experience from one to another. Don’t just work on a module, pass it and then forget everything that you have learnt from it. Keep your assignments, notes etc. as you never know when they will come in useful again, e.g. your independent study might refer to a subject that you studied in a first year module or a topic that came up in one module may appear in a different module.