Can You Take an Undergraduate Course You Haven't Studied Before?

Rebecca, let’s break down your query: “Can I take a course at a university for a subject I haven’t studied for?”

The answer is—not entirely straightforward, but often more flexible than you might think. Different universities and courses have varying requirements and policies.

Admissions Flexibility: A Personal Perspective

I hold an undergraduate degree in architecture, and while some universities insisted on prerequisite subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Art, many others took a more flexible approach. They believed that a candidate’s aptitude and interest in the field might be more indicative of success than their previous academic record.

For example, one architectural course I applied to accepted me with just two ‘E’s, essentially making the offer unconditional. They recognized potential they couldn’t fully quantify based on my school records alone. Another university, Newcastle, also offered me an unconditional place despite my intended A-level grades. Some students only needed a few A levels, and still, I managed to get in despite my low predicted grades. This negotiation with admissions led to a unique situation where, due to my youth and other factors, I was accepted despite my intentional underperformance.

While I crashed my A-levels and was ultimately deemed too low for my first-choice university, I did get accepted by universities that offered lower conditional offers. I ended up meeting someone from the university I attended, resulting in a somewhat unconventional relationship scenario!

Examples of Less Common Subjects in University Curricula

Many students pursue undergraduate degrees in subjects they have not studied before in school. Some examples include:

Psychology: Although not universally taught at the secondary level, there are many universities that offer psychology as an undergraduate course. Archaeology: This interdisciplinary field draws students from various backgrounds, including those with no previous studies in archaeology. Linguistics: Similar to archaeology, linguistics offers students the opportunity to explore human communication in unique ways without prior schooling in the subject. Medicine: While some secondary schools offer basic medical sciences, many students pursue medicine purely through university programs. The same applies to other health sciences like radiography. Aeronautics and Tourism: These subjects are relatively unfamiliar to many secondary education curricula but are enthusiastically pursued by university students.

These examples demonstrate the openness of many universities to students who bring diverse interests and backgrounds to their undergraduate studies.

Steps to Take

If you are eager to pursue a subject you have not studied in college, here are some steps to consider:

Review Admissions Requirements: Check the specific entry criteria for the university and course you are interested in. Some universities maintain strict prerequisites, while others are more flexible. Apply Anyway: If you meet the academic and other requirements, and you pay the required fees, there is no harm in applying. Universities often offer places based on merit, not just previous academic achievements. Fulfill the Offer Terms: Once you receive an offer, make sure you fulfill the terms. Even a slightly lower entry point may be enough for you to gain admission. Seek Guidance: Speak with university admissions counselors and program coordinators. They can provide personalized advice and guidance that might not be available online.

For instance, holding a Ph.D. in any discipline places you in a strong position, regardless of the specific subject from your undergraduate degree. Your background and expertise make you a valuable asset to any university, whether in business or another area of study.

I hope this information is helpful, Rebecca. Please accept my condolences and support with regard to any challenges your son might be facing.