Project-based learning is a truly hands-on way of studying. Focused on tackling real problems and challenges, it helps you build practical skills and experience to supercharge your career. Think less time in lectures, and more time in the lab or workshop — ideal for students who prefer to learn by doing.
Want to know how it could work for you? Let’s take a look at the approach of our partner, ASU London. Founded by the USA’s Arizona State University, this innovative institution treats all of its students as professionals in training from day one of their degree.
Solving real problems
Project-based learning is all about growing your skills and knowledge by using them practically. By taking on challenges you may find in the workplace, you’ll gain a functional understanding of your field of study.
At ASU London, you’ll find endless opportunities to do this. For example, its Global Design Engineering students put their learning into action by developing sensory toys, alongside pupils at a local school.
They’ve also investigated how light aircraft wing structures could be improved with composite materials. Whether the challenges are big or small, ASU London students are tackling them.
Connecting with industry partners
Universities that adopt project-based learning often do it alongside major employers. These organisations provide deep insight into their sector, and sometimes co-design degrees with it in mind. This brings you much closer to the field in which you aim to work.
Industry partners at ASU London are diverse, ranging from start-ups — such as plant care technologists SmartyPlants — to international corporations. You could work on projects with the huge real estate company British Land, or global engineering firm Arup. There are countless opportunities to get involved with impressive employers, all of which bring a mark of quality to your degree.
Working in teams
It’s not just employers with whom you’ll collaborate on project-based learning: it’s also your fellow students. This is great preparation for the workplace, where teamwork is crucial. You’ll quickly get to know each other, learning all about the power of partnership.
With the small class sizes at ASU London, your collaborative skills will grow especially fast. The need for trust and co-operation with your teammates will be very clear — and these are the building blocks of exciting work. You’ll also be supported greatly by teaching staff. Small classes get you closer to your tutors, whose expertise will be a big help.
Putting together a powerful portfolio
As your project-based learning progresses, your body of work will grow. Every project you complete will leave you with clear examples of your ability to share with potential employers. They will be very impressed to see that you didn’t just get good grades — you also mastered serious assignments.
At ASU London, you’ll do this from concept to completion. You’ll take responsibility for project management and execution, developing step-by-step solutions to practical challenges. After undertaking research, identifying a problem and then solving it, you’ll be able to confidently present your efforts to others. Whether that is in a digital portfolio or at a job interview, it will be a real advantage.
What makes project-based learning different?
While universities everywhere are increasing their focus on employability and career skills, project-based learning takes things a step further. Put simply, it always goes beyond theory. Everything you study will be geared towards practical work, giving you a huge head start once you graduate.
This makes ASU London a distinctive place to study. By prioritising project-based learning, it offers you an edge. This is in the spirit of its founder, Arizona State University, which has been ranked #1 in the USA for innovation each year since 2016 (U.S. News Best Colleges).
After studying at ASU London, you could even go straight onto a master’s at Arizona State University. You’re guaranteed an offer if you graduate from your bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:2. With the chance to study in the UK and the USA, you’ll have the best of both worlds.
This incredible option is available with all seven of ASU London’s bachelor’s degrees, which are:
- BSc Business and Management
- BSc Computer Science
- BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- BEng Engineering with Artificial Intelligence
- BEng Engineering with Mechatronics System
- BEng Global Design Engineering
Study at ASU London with Kaplan
Decided that project-based learning is for you? We can help you experience it at ASU London.
Through Kaplan, you can apply for direct admission to an ASU London degree. Alternatively, if you don’t quite meet the entry requirements, you could take one of our degree preparation courses.
These help you improve your English, academic skills and subject knowledge — and guarantee your progress when you pass at the required level. You can study a course at Kaplan International College London, or online via Digital Pathways.
Each of these clear routes to ASU London could set up your path to a fantastic future. Get in touch now to find out all about them.
