1. Goals
Establish your career goals and interests. Think about what you enjoy, what you are good at, what kind of personality you are, and the values you hold. Find out more about the nature, working conditions and future prospects of the jobs that interest you.
2. Training
If you know what career interests you the most, find out what kind of education and training you’ll need to work in that field, and anything else that can help you narrow your focus.
3. Types of Courses
Familiarise yourself with the different types of courses in a given field. Compare and contrast these courses. Decide on the type of course which suits you best.
4. Academic Preparation
Make sure you are academically prepared for college. Have you the subjects and grades required for entry to the course that you are interested in? Have you checked how many points were required for entry to the course last year?
5. College Characteristics
Choose college characteristics that are important to you, for example, location, class size, facilities, learning environment and student life.
6. Research
Gather as much information as possible about the college. Talk to people who are currently studying there. If that is not possible, contact the college directly.
7. Create a Shortlist
Make a short list of the colleges that possess the characteristics you’re looking for and that best meet your goals and needs.
8. Dig Deeper
Request additional information from the colleges on your list if the college prospectus does not provide you with sufficient information.
9. CAO Form
Apply for admission/enrolment to the colleges that top your list. Remember to complete both the Level 8 and the Level 7/Level 6 list on your CAO application. There are many routes to gaining your qualification and TUS's progression pathway allows you to move from one level to the next.
10. More Research
Visit the college websites and other online resources for more information.