Choosing a Course

If you're dallying about which of the two disciplines suits you better, then stop thinking about the degree and think about the job that follows. Are you cut out for social work? If you have an affinity for the subject, but not for the mental and physical bruises of fieldwork, then the broader base of community studies may well be for you. That's not to say that community studies is social work for cowards - it's a new approach to similar issues, and while two graduates from the disciplines will have a lot to say to each other, they will come from totally different standpoints.

In making that choice, talk not just to those who'll be teaching the course, but try to get through to those who have graduated and are now working - how do they feel about their job? The chances are that in a few years' time, you'll be experiencing similar emotions. Remember though that there can he emotion-ally highly charged areas to work in. You may get someone on a bad day...

As ever with the courses in this hook, look at the specialisations and modules of the course and at the research and publications of those who teach and see if they tally with your own interests. Bigger departments can offer broader choices, but look at the specifics of what's on offer, since smaller institutions may offer exactly the areas you can picture yourself in. Look also at the work experience opportunities and the links the department has for placements - there may even be the opportunity to study abroad.

Consider whether the full-time degree is for you. There are lots of other part-time and short courses which can equip you for work in this field, more so than for most other degrees, so look at those and decide if that may be a better option. This might especially be the case for mature students or for those looking for a complete change of career. 'These courses do have quite a high rate of mature students, re-entering education after a period of work, but if that's you, family and/or mortgage commitments might make that a struggle. There are worth-while alternatives to a full-time degree which might be worth considering.

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