University-wide electives

What is an elective?

Electives are credit-bearing modules from across the University that can fall outside your subject area, such as learning a new language. You may be able to take these alongside your main studies.

They offer an excellent opportunity to expand your professional skills and support your career development. Electives can help you realise your potential and build key skills that employers value, such as strong literacy, critical thinking and the ability to respond creatively to future challenges.

By choosing an elective, you may also take part in work-based learning, develop meaningful projects and explore different areas of study across the University.

Why study an elective?

  • Build your leadership skills
  • Get the chance to innovate and think creatively
  • Show future employers that you can think strategically to solve problems
  • Test your ability to connect with people and grow your network
  • Develop communication skills for professional and personal success

Who can study an elective?

You can find out if you’re eligible to take an elective as part of your course by checking our programme specifications:

Some courses already include modules that help you build professional skills. If you're on one of these courses, you won't be able to choose an elective.

How do I register an elective module?

For details on registering an elective module, see our Module registration page.

What electives can I study?

Some electives are only available to students within a specific college. The list below includes university-wide electives you may be able to choose.

University-wide electives

For details about Academic English modules, see our Academic English page.

For details about our Polylang modules, see our Polylang (Modern Languages) or Polylang (English Communication) page.

For all other modules, you can search for details using the module titles or codes below via My Student Record.

Please note: All modules are subject to availability and the list will be reviewed each year.