Back This section gives practical advice and helpful links in guiding you when choosing the course you want to do at university. It is important to research first and see if the course material aligns with your interests. Choose something that you have an interest in studying and something you would potentially like to do as a career is one of the most important steps.
Background
The most important part of university life will depend on choosing the right course for you. It makes all the difference when trying to settle into a new life on campus. So researching universities, their courses and attending taster/open days is very important when planning ahead.
Ask yourself the hard questions about university life such as, would a smaller campus suit better? Are the modules on the course covering what I want to learn? What are the disability support services like? If this course is not for me what else would I like to do? How will I approach this? Also, deciding to disclose your disability is another factor to consider on how life at university will be for you.
Linking in with your Career Guidance counsellor in post-primary is a very important first step. Discussing your concerns with family about transitioning to 3rd level is important too. You must make the decision for you and what you truly want to achieve.
How could this affect me?
Always talk to your career guidance counsellor in school for advice. Do research your chosen course carefully. Always remember there are options even if you decide first term on campus is not for you. Recognising you want to change course or maybe to defer is a positive step too not a negative. There is always a solution even if you feel you may want to change disciplines. Always talk to someone on our team for help and guidance.
What to do next?
Listen to the course podcasts for help
Practical tips
These podcasts provide excellent information from our staff to give you the insight into the courses & modules for various disciplines on campus.
See the SETU course builder
Visit the university open day, explore the campus, ask for further information from staff.
SETU also offers Taster days on campus which are advertised yearly on our website. These involve attending some lectures and a campus tour to help you really get a feel of what it is like to be a 3rd level student before applying.
Questions to think about
Some points to consider when choosing where and what to study:
- What course are you interested in? Can it lead to a career at the end of the course?
- Are you going to live at home and commute to the university or flat share?
- Are you aware of the workload that is required for your course?
- Does the course require you to make additional purchases of equipment-such as lab coats, eyewear etc?
- Have you researched what support the university can offer autistic students?
Courses are taught via a variety of different methods including lectures, seminars, and practical sessions. Your course may include placement, field trips and site visits which will take place off campus in a wide variety of locations.
Most courses are assessed by a variety of methods at SETU which could include exams, class exams, continuous assessment, presentations, and practical assessments. A lot of courses will include group work.
Additional information
Access College – Access College
Aspire Ireland – Aspire – The Autism Spectrum Association of Ireland