The decision as to which university to apply to is often taken on the basis of a university's position on the world rankings table. Yet, (44) _______ considerations, such as whether the course is theoretical or offers hands-on experience and the amount of time that students will need to work independently should be taken into (45) _______. The fact is that some undergraduates (46) _______ express their dissatisfaction with their university experience base their complaints on poor organisation, the lack of support received and on having fewer contact hours than expected.

As higher education providers come under increasing pressure to meet (47) _______ targets and to maintain or improve their status, course guidelines should clarify what participants can expect from the course and what the course expects from them. This should ensure a reduction in student drop-out rates.

Inevitably, (48) ________ much the content and structure is spelt out, some students will turn up with unreal expectations that can never be met.