Apps launched to help students make informed decisions about university

Two new online apps have been launched by Universities Minister Chris Skidmore to help students make better choices about where and what to study at university. 
 
The apps, which were created by the winners of a government competition, set out simple and accessible information about graduate outcomes for prospective students. 
 
They will help better decision making from students on their future careers, bringing together data on potential future earnings, with information on careers and employment options, and the quality of teaching. One works as a personalised digital assistant to access information, while the other is a game where players can simulate career paths. 
 
The tools also aim to help students make more informed decisions about the best course and institution for them, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds who may receive less help from their parents to navigate university choices. 
 
Two contracts were awarded to the winners of the Open Data Competition, one to AccessEd for ThinkUni, which offers students a ‘personalised digital assistant’ bringing together data on universities, courses and financial outcomes that are easy to explore and compare. 
 
While The Profs have created TheWayUp!, a game for students to simulate different graduate career paths to help them make better choices about their future. It also aims to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds set aspirational educational and career goals to increase their chances of achieving them. 
 
Both apps are in open beta and are available now, operating with the latest information on universities in the UK.