That doubt is completely normal. Choosing what to study is a big decision that will shape both your years of study and your career opportunities afterwards.

Therefore, many people also find that they are never completely sure. Most students go through periods when they doubt whether they have made the right choice. When you do have to choose, try not to make the choice too big. Relax your shoulders and focus on what motivates you here and now. And don’t think so much about where it will get you in the long term. The most important thing is that you have done your research before choosing:

• Have you got to know the academic content of the programme?
• Does the study programme match what you find exciting?
• Are you motivated to start the programme?
• If you can answer ‘yes’ to these questions, you are well on your way.

6 good tips for your choice of study

That is so. Because a study programme with us is not professionally oriented. This means that we will not train you to do a specific job, but you will gain skills that you can use in countless places.

The world is changing, and we cannot predict what it will look like and what will be needed. Humans are part of the problems of the world, but we are also part of the solution. Therefore, there will always be a need for experts in design, culture, history, values, ethics, language and communication.

Therefore, you will not be trained for a specific job if you study with us. Instead, you have the opportunity to work with what you think is exciting, important and meaningful – and you will leave with something you can use to solve the complex challenges of the future. However, they will look at that time.

All beginnings are difficult – and for many people, the start of studies can be something of an upheaval.

In addition to starting new subjects, meeting new people and perhaps moving to a new city, you also have to learn how to ‘go’ to university. You will quickly discover that many things are different from upper secondary school – and that new demands are placed on you.

One of the things you have to get used to is the teaching methods, which may be different from those you know. And you have a greater responsibility for structuring your everyday life. There is also more to read than in upper secondary school, and some of it can be quite theoretical.

But don’t worry: we know that it takes practice and getting used to. That is why the start of studies is also much more than drinking and intro parties: when you start at SDU, tutors, lecturers and supervisors are all ready to introduce you to the University and help you get started with daily life on your new study programme.

Read more about everyday life as a student under ‘Study Life’

There is no one definite or right way to go to university. SDU is full of students with different interests, focal points, working methods and much more. Interest, curiosity and commitment are what make the big difference. Being able to settle into a good study routine, being open to new things and being ready to learn – that’s what it’s all about. Even Einstein would have had a hard time at university if he didn’t have those things.

You will definitely have to get used to a new daily life – all beginnings can be difficult, and life as a student can be an upheaval. Fortunately, the plan is for you to become smart by being here – you don’t have to already know everything when you walk through the door. Your study time is meant to be exciting and challenging, and you will certainly be introduced to a lot of new things along the way that you didn’t know you were interested in.

When you start at SDU, tutors, lecturers and supervisors are ready to introduce you to the University and help you get you settled into daily life on your new study programme.

At the moment, there is a lot of focus on grades at upper secondary schools. You will be surprised how little thought is given to grades at university. In fact, you may find that your university lecturer gets a little irritated if you focus too much on grades and too little on your learning.
We root more for students who challenge themselves, stumble along the way and get a 4 than students who follow the straight path to secure a 12.
We are not alone in thinking that – employers care more about the skills you have acquired than your grades. It is about what you have learned along the way on your study programme and also the things you have tried your hand at outside of your studies, for example, student jobs, internships or voluntary work.

See our Q&A about education choices and careers

Having to choose what to study is a big decision. You have undoubtedly put a lot of thought and consideration into it. The doubt may arise because you are committed to your choice and what you want – at least for now.

Accept that you are not 100% sure right now
You can’t know what studying is like until you’ve tried it. You will only know if you have made the right choice once you have started. 
Doubt can be a constant companion – when you send off your application, when you accept your study place – and during your studies. It takes curiosity and patience before you see your choice open up before you. Maybe it will be completely different than you had imagined. We’re pretty sure it will be.
Talk about your doubts – with your family, your goldfish, your friends, with the student counsellor. Talking about what you are experiencing makes much better sense than when they’re just random thoughts going round in your head.

And remember: it often takes 1 or 2 semesters before you are completely certain that you are in the right place.

... but I’m pretty sure I made the wrong choice
You are guaranteed to have done the best research you could before sending off your application. If your research has led you in the direction of this study programme, go with it! If, on the other hand, you have discovered something new since you submitted your application, say so.
At the top of this page you can find who you can contact if you need a chat about your doubts!

A number of students do this because they discovered that there was something else they wanted to do. For most students, it’s a re-selection, not dropping out – in that way, it’s something they end up being happy about.

Here at the University, we have full respect for students who make a different choice, although of course we encourage you to give yourself a chance to start and get to know the programme properly.