Doubts about your study choice

Do you want to investigate the doubts you have about your study programme? There are several reasons why you may have doubts about whether your study programme suits you. For example, you may have doubts about the field of study, the level of education or the way of teaching. On this page, you can read what can help you with your study doubts.

About doubts about your study choice

Having doubts about your studies is normal and healthy. It helps you think about what is really important to you. If you notice that your motivation for your studies is dropping, it is important to find out whether this is due to your studies themselves or something else.

More about less motivation

Tip: Talk about it with your student coach and people you trust around you. That way, you can work together to find a solution that suits you.

If you have doubts for a longer period of time, it can lead to negative thoughts such as 'I must continue because I have already started' or 'I don't want to fail'. If this applies to you, consider talking to a study career choice advisor to avoid getting stuck in these doubts.

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Doubts about the field of study

Do you doubt whether your field of study suits you? If you want to take the first steps to find out what suits you, get started right away with trying to find an answer to the question: 'What suits me?'.

What suits me?

Doubts about the type of education

If you doubt whether studying at a university of applied sciences suits you, you might consider switching to a research university (if you are eligible for admission). For instance if you are looking for more academic depth. The table below tells you what the differences are in general.

University of Applied Sciences

Focus on Practical Application - these institutions focus on the practical application of knowledge. Programs are designed to prepare students for specific professions or industries, and there is often a strong connection between the curriculum and real-world problems.
Skill Based - Teaching methods here are often more hands-on, with an emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. Internships and work placements may be a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Career path - Graduates are typically well-prepared for entry into specific professions and industries. The focus is on practical skills that are immediately applicable in the workforce.

Research University

Focus on research - These institutions prioritise academic research and the creation of new knowledge. They often have a strong emphasis on theoretical and abstract concepts. Faculty members at research universities are typically expected to engage in significant research activities in addition to teaching.
Knowledge based - The teaching style at research universities often involves lectures, seminars, and independent study. Students are expected to engage in critical thinking, analysis, and theoretical understanding of their subjects.
Career path - Graduates from research universities often pursue careers in academia, research, or other fields that require a strong theoretical foundation.

Doubts about the educational approach

Does the way of teaching at your course not appeal to you? Would you like more structure or more freedom? Does your programme require skills that make studying difficult for you? In all cases, discuss your doubts and study challenges with your student coach. Every study programme has its own way of teaching. Many study programmes at a university of applied sciences require skills such as cooperation, planning and working independently. A student coach can guide you in (further) developing these skills. However, if you want to find out whether another study programme would suit you better, make an appointment with a study career choice advisor.

Exercise

This exercise will help you get clear on what your doubts are about and take action. Set a timer for 15 minutes and write down what all your doubts are about. Try writing out your thoughts verbatim. Leave this for a day and then look at it again. Underline important words. What is your doubt really about? And what is a first step towards a solution? Talk about it with classmates, friends your parents or your student coach. Do you keep having doubts about your choice of study? Are you looking for guidance in exploring your doubts? Then see your student coach or make an appointment with a study choice advisor.

Choose a different study programme

Have you come to the conclusion that you are not in your right study programme and are you considering switching studies?

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