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Understanding Academic Culture

A collection of resources and practical advice to help you understand academic culture in the UK

Building your own understanding

Studying at Newcastle University gives you opportunities to take control of your own academic development.

Thinking and writing critically

Students are expected to think and write ‘critically’. But what does this mean, and how can you do it?

Studying in English

Studying in a second language brings many opportunities, but sometimes it can be challenging, too.

Completing assessments

The University assesses students’ learning in various ways. This mixture of assessment styles is designed to develop and test a range of your skills.

Managing your studies

Students are expected to take responsibility for their studies. This means managing your own commitments and engagement to make sure you get what you want from your time at university.

Using other scholars' work

Engaging with other scholars’ work is one of the most important and rewarding aspects of studying at university. However, you need to make sure you always use scholarship honestly and properly.

Learning collaboratively

Your tutors are not the only people you can learn from. You can also learn a lot from other students.

Interacting with others at university

The University is a place where everyone has the right to be treated respectfully and equally.

The student perspective

Listen to a range of students share their experiences of academic culture.

Academic Words and Phrases

A collection of guides designed to help students understand key academic terms by providing translations and contextual background.
If you would like a translated version (currently available in Mandarin) please contact academicskills@newcastle.ac.uk

Academic Terms - Study and Assessment

A guide to help clarify words and phrases related to academic study e.g., 'critical thinking'. **PDF Download**

Academic Terms - University Environments

Explanations of general university terms, such as ‘lecturer’ and ‘workshops’. **PDF Download**

Academic Terms - Administration Structure and Process

This guide covers terms around administrative structure such as ‘interruption of studies’. **PDF Download**

Further information and support

We are here to help support your studies with a wide range of resources and services.

Academic Skills Team

One-to-one appointments, individual advice, and a programme of events to help you develop the academic skills you need.

In- sessional support at Newcastle University

If you're an international student and want support for academic English, the in-sessional programme might be suitable for you.

Language Resource Centre

Providing resources and facilities for language learning and improvement as well as being a hub for intercultural exchange.

Student Health and Wellbeing

Student Health and Wellbeing services are here to help and support you so that you can make the most of your time at University.