How to manage your studies?

You have started your university studies and a whole new world opens up for you. It may come as a surprise and cause some confusion that the university does not have your courses clearly set out, attendance is not checked and there may be no daily homework and grades or points. So how do you know where to go and what to do, and how can you make sure you are on track with your studies?

Please note that there are different types of curricula at the University of Tartu. Curricula are generally more flexible in bachelor’s studies than in professional higher education and integrated studies. For example, medical students have a clearer timetable, they know which courses they have to take in which semesters, and students are divided into groups studying together every day. In contrast, students in the history curriculum, for example, have more freedom of choice – they have several specialisation options, can choose between different modules and courses in different semesters, and the study content and volume depend on elective and optional courses and the minor specialisation. Classmates are also different in each lecture or seminar.

A moment of reflection: What is your curriculum like? What is compulsory in the curriculum and how much freedom of choice is there about what to study and when? Where can you find out more about it and who can explain the different options?

If you feel that you need more information and clarity, talk to your tutor, academic affairs specialist or programme director. You can also consult a study adviser or a career counsellor at the Counselling Centre.

To cope with a wide range of choices, you need to consciously manage your studies. Both at the beginning and during your studies, it is good to know

• what you want to acheive,
• what stage you are at,
• how you will achieve your goals.

To be able to make selections within your curriculum and from the whole range of courses on offer at the university, you need to have a good understanding of your own interests and aspirations, your own abilities and values, and be able to see the links between study and career opportunities. It helps you set clear goals and motivates you to learn and act. Read more.

Managing your studies is an ongoing process. Make sure you are on schedule with your studies. When unexpected events and changes occur, you will have to adjust your plan more or less. During your studies, your understanding of what you want and what opportunities are useful and exciting may change. It opens up new opportunities to develop yourself.