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Preparing to study

We're here to support you to become the best independent learner you can be.

It’s exciting to have the opportunity to study a subject you love, to feel challenged and grow as a person. Even before you arrive, there are things you can do to get prepared and help you feel confident to start your new academic life.

And soon you will be part of the CCCU learning community where your lecturers, course team and classmates, as well as the Library and Learning Skills team, will support you to develop the new study skills that you’ll need to reach your full potential.

Did you know?

The Learning Skills Hub has a range of online modules to help you get ready for University. Whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate student, you'll find the support you need for the exciting new challenges that lay ahead. 

  1. Read the University Handbook – this essential guide provides useful information and guidance on your academic life. It also gives you an explanation of the University’s codes, regulations, policies and procedures.

  2. Check out your Course Essentials (updated from June 2024).

  3. Connect with a Peer Mentor via email to ask questions before you arrive and find out more about studying at CCCCU.

  4. Watch the Welcome film from your School to find out about the facilities that you will be learning in and get study tips from students on your course.

  5. Explore the Learning Skills Hub – this is where you will find a range of modules to support you throughout your academic journey. Hit the ground running by checking out the dedicated modules to help you get started, including time management, introduction to referencing and effective online research.

  6. Understand the language that is used at University as it may be different from what you are used to. We have developed the University jargon busting guide to help you. 

Each course is different and is made up of a mixture of face-to-face and online learning, including:

  • Lectures for everyone studying the module. Many are recorded so you can watch them again, view them online at home and take further notes.
  • Seminars, workshops and other practicals, which are taught in smaller groups.
  • Supporting activities, such as tutorials or skills sessions.
  • Placements if you are studying a professional body qualification.
  • Learning materials are made available by your lecturers via the virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

Outside of organised teaching, you’ll be expected to:

  • Research via the Library, including its digital online resources, such as electronic books and journals
  • Prepare for assignments
  • Work in groups
  • Develop your academic skills and graduate attributes including your digital capabilities.

We recommend that you have your own laptop computer as there will be lots of online resources, recorded lectures and activities for you to engage with to support your independent learning, both on and off campus.

Your first step is to discuss any special equipment or software requirements with your course team to ensure you have what you need from the start.

  • For most courses, a Windows laptop is recommended with an Intel i5 processor and 8GB RAM. A minimum of 256GB SSD (solid-state disc) is also recommended.
  • While attractive, we do not recommend Google Chromebooks for university study because they are designed as 'lighter' devices, better suited for informal browsing (streaming, social media, etc.).
  • For Creative Arts courses (e.g. Music or Media-related courses), an Apple MacBook may be more appropriate.
  • If you are studying computing or engineering subjects, you may wish to consider a higher specification laptop to support your studies, for example, an i7 processor with 16GB Ram.

Make sure your device has the latest system updates, anti-virus protection, and is protected with a password or PIN code.

You can connect to free Wi-Fi both on campus and in our accommodation. You’ll also get access to free software via our CCCU App Store. 

However, please note that only devices with the following operating systems can connect to the University Wi-Fi: Microsoft Windows 10 and newer, Apple Mac OS: 10.12 and newer, Linux OS: later versions supporting WPA2 Enterprise/AES encryption.

If you do not have a laptop when on campus, there are many PCs and Apple Macs to use. You can also make use of our iBorrow laptop scheme.

Reading lists top tips

You can find your reading lists in your Course Essentials.

Supporting international students to study in the UK

The International Student Success Programme provides practical advice on preparing to live and study in the UK and will help you prepare for academic and social expectations. The programme also offers guidance on communicating with peers and building your confidence and resilience, as well as strategies for good wellbeing and mental health.

What study support will be available at CCCU?

At your Welcome Week you will be introduced to your course and the academic support available:

Find out more here.

 

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