Be one step ahead of the competition with the Progression Series

Progression guides

UCAS has produced the 2009 entry Progression Series to help applicants seeking entry to, or considering careers requiring degree-level qualification in, some of the most competitive subject areas.

Demonstration of prior research and commitment to a course or subject can go a long way to securing your place on the course of your choice.

These books introduce various subjects and explain the different career options available. With advice and information from UCAS and careers experts, the series helps give you the edge when applying to these competitive subject areas.

The Progression Series uses the most up-to-date information and data available. Each title includes:

  • an introduction to the subject area
  • careers options
  • advice on which area to study
  • what entry routes are available
  • entry requirements
  • study tips
  • how to apply
  • profiles of courses and students
  • information on non-UCAS courses
  • graduate destinations

The Progression Series can help to get you thinking; clearly lay out your options; give you the facts about applying; provide experiences of those who have already been successful, and ultimately enhance your application.

Special offer: buy the entire series for a special discount.

Booksellers and trade customers: contact our Trade coordinator for information on terms and discounts.

Art and Design

Progression to Art and Design front cover

This diverse subject area is more popular than ever and therefore harder to get placed on the course of your choice. This guide demystifies the vast array of options available and will ensure you are prepared when applying.

For example, do you know what sort of questions may be asked in an interview for an art or design course? It won't be as simple as "Why do you want to study Art?"

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Economics, Finance and Accountancy

Progression to Economics, Finance and Accountancy front cover

Demand for advice in these subjects has never been higher. With so many possible careers available to graduates, this book aims to focus the choices of applicants and demonstrate the diversity of the subject area.

For example, did you know that professionals in the finance sector can be some of the most influential and are heavily relied upon by the world's largest and most successful companies?

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Engineering and Mathematics

Progression to Engineering and Mathematics front cover

These huge and varied subject areas are increasingly popular and are often undertaken without sufficient knowledge of the many options available within. This book will help those interested to understand the many elements that make up these subjects and clarify their options.

For example, did you know that engineers can be required to be as creative as artists or designers?

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Health and Social Care

Progression to Health and Social Care front cover

Incorporating everything from nutrition to reflexology and from nursing to speech science, this diverse field attracts an increasing number of applicants. The wide range on offer makes it all the more important that the UCAS application displays a commitment to the chosen course.

For example, how would you persuade a university that you will excel in their radiography course?

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Law

Progression to Law front cover

Law is one of the most popular subjects and continues to increase in applicant numbers. Preparation and knowledge are key to accessing these sought after courses.

For example, could you explain at interview why you are particularly interested in any one of over 13 main areas of Law?

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Media and Performing Arts

Progression to Media and Performing Arts front cover

The creative industries sector is currently undergoing a new 'golden age', enjoying increased government spending and becoming the fastest growing sector in the economy. More people studying media and performing arts means the courses are more competitive than ever and you need to be well prepared when applying.

For example, did you know that 50% of graduates in this area do not find a job related to their degree within the first year after graduation?

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Medicine, Dentistry and Optometry

Progression to Medicine, Dentistry and Optometry front cover

This is the most competitive subject area with up to 10 applicants per place on average.

Your application will need to shine to help you secure your place on these courses. For example, did you know that applicants for Medical courses may face an admissions test and an interview to help the course provider find the right student from potentially thousands of applicants?

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Psychology

Progression to Psychology front cover

Psychology is a hugely popular and varied subject. This may be why it attracts over 80,000 applicants; that's 6 for each available place. With such high levels of competition, applicants need to be able to display commitment and knowledge in order to be selected.

For example, you may need to demonstrate a wide range of abilities; from analytical and scientific skills, to excellent communication and people skills.

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Teaching and Education

Progression to Teaching and Education front cover

Containing both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, this guide is for anyone making their first venture into a teaching qualification. Formerly the popular Initial Teacher Training Handbook, the book has been expanded and improved to be part of the Progression Series.

Teaching is a profession increasingly in the public eye and an increasingly popular choice for students. For example, did you know that Primary Education is in the top ten course searches on the UCAS website?

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