A good orientation programme for first-year students builds on students’ upper-secondary academic experiences while also inspiring and challenging students academically from the very beginning. The university will approach the entire first year from the perspective of providing a good introduction to university education, which will provide a smoother transition for new students. The university wants to improve the integration of students into their degree programme, as this has a decisive influence on retention and the quality of the academic environment. To this end, the university will focus on providing students with a good physical, social and academic environment throughout the degree programme, and on bringing students closer to research. The university will also provide an inclusive, supportive environment for learning and study that makes room for the diversity of the student body in order to improve retention, well-being and utilisation of the talent pool.
Students must feel that they begin their university careers in an inspiring, safe and inclusive atmosphere that fosters both academic and social integration. The orientation programme must give students an understanding of their degree programme, motivate them to join/participate in academic and social communities, introduce them to support functions and clarify what is expected of them academically. This takes place through interaction between teaching staff, fellow students and student counsellors. Specific examples of such initiatives include Study@AU, which provides information about life as a student for new students about to start, mentoring schemes for first-year students, under which new students are supported by older students, and the establishment of study groups.
A good start begins by choosing what to study. A good match between applicant and degree programme is based on a conscious, informed, qualified, and well-considered choice of degree programme. Applicants with good academic prerequisites who are motivated to immerse themselves and engage in their degree programme and student life are attractive for the university. Specific examples include study trials, where potential applicants can spend three days on a degree programme, and web information with content relevant to the target group.
These goals apply to both national and international students. International students must also be provided with knowledge about the linguistic, cultural and educational conditions upon which the teaching at Aarhus University is based. A specific example of this is that all international full-degree students at AU are offered a range of extra-curricular activities with focus on Danish language acquisition and building social relations before commencement of studies.
The introductory programme is organised by academic environments, student advisers and introduction coordinators with student associations and others.
