Sorry this is a bit of an epic. DD has asked for MN wisdom (I have taught her well!)
DD is holding contextual offers from both to study Chemical Physics. The offers are the same and achievable. She now needs to decide which is going to be her firm choice (UEA will be insurance)
She has been to open days and offer holder days. The universities are different from each other and each have their pluses and minuses.
Bristol
Plus points
- larger course with dedicated leaders for the specialism
- higher ranking
- industrial placement is part of the course
- really liked the city
Minus points
- expensive both to travel to and to live there
- didnt have a good 'fit' with other applicants
- Typical student entry A levels significantly higher than DD's contextual offer (teaching style demonstrated didnt seem supportive)
Sheffield
Plus points
- flexible course - accommodation of individual student interests
- supportive staff
- less pressure on entry grades (offer holders told not to panic if they drop a grade on results day)
- very friendly & welcoming university
- cheaper city to travel to and live in
Minus points
- didnt love the city but thought it okay
- not highly ranked for a RG university
- very small course (specialism within a larger course)
- placement not integrated into the course but available as a wider university scheme (DEE)
Does anyone have any views on either university please? How are degrees from each valued? Does the ranking matter post graduation?