Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Why do you want to study this course or subject? is the first question you'll need to answer as part of your personal statement on your UCAS application. Below, we've put together some example answers you can use for inspiration for your own, and help you to write a successful personal statement for university.

Example 1: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Being born in the UK to parents from Mumbai and Zambia has given me an internationally diverse perspective. Through my travels, I have witnessed both the affluence of Europe and the poverty in India. These stark contrasts have driven me to explore the forces that shape the global economy and question why, despite centuries of economic theory, such inequalities persist.

Over the summer, I delved into India’s economic development, inspired by these disparities. The Indian economy fascinates me—not only due to my heritage but also because of its striking duality: rapid wealth accumulation alongside poverty levels comparable to those in Sub-Saharan Africa. I am also drawn to the application of economic theories. Concepts such as the Tragedy of the Commons and the Coase Theorem have deepened my interest in externalities, while Game Theory has enhanced my understanding of strategic decision-making, particularly within oligopolies and the implications of Nash equilibrium. Exploring these models led me to Experimental Economics and Charles Holt’s Markets, Games, and Strategic Behaviour, as I sought to understand whether human behavior aligns with theoretical predictions.

Example 2: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have always been passionate about science, particularly biology and its connection to the natural world. During my A-level Biology course, I was especially fascinated by the Energy and Ecosystems module, which deepened my interest in environmental science. This, combined with my curiosity about the natural world, has motivated me to pursue a degree in Environmental Biology to further explore the scientific principles that govern ecosystems and the factors influencing them.

Studying Chemistry and Maths at A-level has also provided me with valuable skills that I believe will enhance my understanding of this subject. The practical component of my Chemistry course has strengthened my knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety measures, and experimental techniques—skills that are essential for scientific research. Meanwhile, my study of Mathematics has developed my ability to interpret numerical data, which will be beneficial in analyzing environmental patterns and trends.

By undertaking this degree, I aim to build a strong foundation in environmental biology, equipping myself with the scientific knowledge and analytical skills needed to contribute to this vital field.

Example 3: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I am applying to study Social Work because I have always been passionate about making a meaningful difference in people's lives. I believe that through social work, I can provide care and support to those in need, helping them navigate life’s challenges.

My interest in mental health grew while caring for my grandmother, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Witnessing the daily struggles she faced gave me insight into the complexities of mental health and deepened my desire to learn more about this area. Additionally, a close family member’s battle with drug and alcohol addiction exposed me to the profound impact substance abuse has on both mental health and family dynamics. These personal experiences have further strengthened my commitment to becoming a social worker, allowing me to support individuals and families facing similar difficulties.

Example 4: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have always had a deep interest in public affairs, constantly seeking to understand global events and their impact on society. Studying Politics and International Relations is a natural choice for me, as I am particularly fascinated by how political decision-making shapes the lives of individuals and entire nations. My passion for this field has only grown over time, encouraging me to pursue a focused study of the subject.

Politics influences our daily lives far more than we often realise—one government policy can have profound and widespread effects. I aspire to take the knowledge and analytical skills gained through higher education and apply them in a professional setting, contributing meaningfully to political and social change.

Spending time in my home country, Algeria, during my teenage years deepened my interest in political systems. I was struck by the stark contrast between Algerian political parties and those in the United Kingdom, as the former often lacked strong ideological foundations. This observation led me to conclude that the absence of clear political ideology has been a driving force behind corruption in Algeria.

By studying Politics and International Relations, I hope to develop the expertise necessary to contribute to meaningful political reform in Algeria. Change may not happen overnight, but with a growing number of young people engaging in politics, I believe that transformation is inevitable. I am eager to be part of this movement, working towards a future where Algeria’s vast potential can be fully realised.

Example 5: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Mathematics and Science, particularly Physics, have always been my favorite subjects, as they develop my logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. To combine my passion for both fields, I aspire to study Computer Science with Mathematics.

Studying Further Mathematics at A-Level has been both challenging and fascinating. It has deepened my understanding of mathematical principles, particularly in areas such as vectors and matrices, which introduce the concept of eigenvectors. I find it remarkable how these mathematical concepts have real-world applications, such as in facial recognition technology. The interplay between Mathematics and Computer Science excites me, as I believe their combination holds the potential to drive innovative solutions for the benefit of humanity.

Physics, on the other hand, has given me insight into how computers function at their most fundamental level. From input and processing to output, the seamless transfer of electrons represents data in a highly logical manner. Understanding these core principles strengthens my ability to design software that interacts efficiently with hardware, improving overall system performance.

My passion for programming began when I was 13, when I started self-studying C++ and Visual Basic. I quickly found programming both intuitive and enjoyable, thanks to my strong foundation in Mathematics. Through self-learning, I discovered fundamental algorithms such as Euclid’s Algorithm, which I used to develop my first program—a fractional calculator.

Driven by my curiosity, I expanded my knowledge to multiple programming languages, from file-based to database systems, Windows-based to web-based applications, and object-oriented programming to web services. Among them, PHP became my strongest language. In Year 11, I took and passed the Zend PHP Certified Engineer exam, becoming the youngest ZCE in my country—a milestone that further solidified my commitment to the field.

I am eager to deepen my knowledge of Computer Science and Mathematics, applying theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. By exploring the unexplored, I hope to contribute to technological advancements that positively impact society.

Example 6: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

During a family holiday in continental Europe, we passed through Vienna, and it was there that I truly understood the meaning and power of Architecture. Seeing the breathtaking works of Adolf Loos, the city’s most famous and beloved architect, opened my eyes to the profound impact architecture can have on both people and places. His iconic creations, still admired and idealized worldwide, left a lasting impression on me.

From the moment I first set foot in Vienna and witnessed its architectural beauty, I knew without a doubt that I wanted to pursue a career as an architect. Now, seven years later, that passion has only intensified. My determination to achieve this goal has driven me to actively expand my knowledge of the field and meet the academic requirements necessary for entry. Every step I have taken has been in pursuit of this dream, and I am eager to continue my journey in Architecture.

Example 7: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

From the smallest molecule to the most important issues of the modern world, chemistry is fundamental. The burgeoning world energy crisis, for example, will only be solved with the help of Chemistry, and the possibility to be involved in this is an ambition of mine. Studying Chemistry has helped me to further understand this problem and to ask questions like why is hydrogen fuel expensive to produce? And it has helped to answer such questions, i.e. due to the high amount of energy required for the electrolysis of water. Chemistry is also crucial in industry, and new developments can have large economic impacts. This evident vitality, augmented by the deeper understanding of real-world issues gained by further study, is a major incentive to study degree level Chemistry.

My interest in Chemistry was consolidated by my work experience at Durham University Chemistry Department. The more advanced Chemistry I was exposed to - in textbooks, discussions and practical work - ensured me that I would be interested in degree level Chemistry. My work mainly consisted of brominating an aromatic, which would produce an intermediate for stem-cell research. This taught me valuable practical skills, such as the use of Schlenk apparatus, column separation and rotary evaporation. Working with a research team made me particularly attracted to courses offering an opportunity to take part in research. Using analytical machinery, such as NMR, on compounds that I had produced excitingly brought what had been theory in a textbook into practical reality. The desire for more of these moments is one of my main motivations for studying Chemistry.

Example 8: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Fire, the wheel, boats, book printing, electricity, engines, automobiles, planes, spaceships, wireless information transfer: engineering is determining this progress.

Leading engineers are the creators of our future. I find it a challenging aim to become one of them and to design a world for future generations.

Looking back into my childhood, I always found myself interested in problem solving. Puzzles and constructions of any sort were my favourite toys especially the ones suitable for older children. This interest has been growing with time. For me, understanding the working process of any machine, from cattle to spacecraft, has always led to a unique experience of satisfying my interest.

Example 9: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I am eager to study Engineering because I find it both fascinating and intellectually stimulating. From an early age, I have enjoyed tackling mathematical and physical problems, and I am excited to further develop these problem-solving skills through higher education.

Engineering not only allows me to explore cutting-edge technologies, but it also provides the opportunity to deepen my understanding of a field that genuinely excites me. The prospect of applying scientific principles to real-world challenges motivates me to pursue this subject at a higher level.

Example 10: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

From an early age, I have been deeply fascinated by the biology of the human body and the transformative impact of medical discoveries. Advances in medicine have not only reshaped the world we live in but have also deepened my understanding of human anatomy and the science behind disease and treatment.

What intrigues me most is how the human body functions and the ways in which it can be affected by illness. The ever-evolving field of biomedicine continues to fuel my curiosity, inspiring me to pursue a degree in Biomedical Science and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and healthcare.