What does it mean to study at a university?
Studying at university is very different from going to school. We have summarised exactly what is important for you here. Do you recognise yourself in it?
You acquire knowledge independently. Study subjects are organised according to scientific disciplines in which you receive a broad education in the scientific principles and methods of a subject area. The focus is not initially on application - a scientific degree programme should also enable you to deduce new application possibilities from new findings. Studying at a university can prepare you for a doctorate and a career in science, but also for many other areas of work.
Trained in scientific thinking and working methods, you can familiarise yourself independently with new areas and adapt your knowledge to the requirements of future working environments. So if you are eager to learn and enjoy thinking, reading, analysing, discussing, researching and generally working "with your head", a university degree is a good choice for you.
Studying requires a high degree of independence and organisational talent. There are usually no ready-made timetables; you plan your studies yourself and keep an eye on deadlines independently. However, you will receive support from the student counselling services. There are no "class teachers" who monitor your every step.
At a large university like the HU, your studies may seem somewhat anonymous at first, depending on the department. You are therefore welcome to make contacts, for example via the student representatives, at introductory events, university sports or in mentoring programmes.
Our tip
Attend a teaching or orientation event, preferably during the Study Orientation Week, and talk to students.
Reflect on your motivation
Before you decide on a degree programme, ask yourself: Why do I want to study? Your motivation is crucial for a successful degree programme.
Your incentive lies in the job itself. You have a genuine interest in a particular course of study and a desire to delve deeply and specialise in a subject area. This makes learning easier and increases your chances of success.
Ask yourself, for example: What can I spend hours on and always want to learn more about? What would I choose if I couldn 't tell anyone about my decision ?
The incentives here lie in external factors, such as pressure from outside expectations, prestige or a salary.
Statistically speaking, academics have a good chance of a higher income and protection against unemployment. However, please note that the labour market is constantly changing and your income depends on many factors. If your main motivation is career security or a specific salary target, studies show that this does not contribute to your well-being and statistically increases the risk of dropping out of university. Studying requires a lot of self-motivation and perseverance, so it is important that your choice is based on your own ideas.
Did you already know?
You can still study after completing an apprenticeship. This often even has advantages for you personally, possibly also in terms of the NC.
Frequently asked questions
The HU has set itself the goal of offering support for barrier-free and inclusive studies at all levels of study, e.g. with counselling for students with disabilities. Under certain conditions, an application for compensation for disadvantages or a hardship application can also be made when applying for a degree programme.
NC values are only determined after a selection procedure has been completed, i.e. they are not predictions, but only serve as a rough guide and show the NC of previous years. After all, you never know how many others are applying at the same time as you and what their A-level average, waiting semesters and professional experience look like. So be sure to apply if you are interested in the degree programme! Even if you don't get a place immediately, you may still have a chance in the succession procedure, and in some cases there is also a lottery procedure in which the remaining unallocated study places are drawn.
But remain realistic and open-minded and also look at other universities. You can find an overview in the University Compass.