We take a look at some of the things you need to consider when deciding whether you should apply to university
Deciding to study for a university degree is a major step, although one which can open the doors to an exciting career and new opportunities. There’s a lot to consider when thinking about going to university, and whilst higher education offers valuable experiences, it’s not necessarily the right path for everyone.
We’ve outlined some essential factors to help you decide if university is the right path for you.
Careers that require a degree
Your career aspirations might help you decide if you need a university degree. If you want to enter a profession such as medicine, law, or teaching, for example, you’ll need a degree due to the significant depth of knowledge that’s required to practice.
Similarly, you’ll also need specialist subject knowledge for careers in fields such as engineering or scientific research.
Transferable skills
Even if you’re not sure what you want to do, keep in mind that university can give you valuable transferable skills. Many employers and graduate schemes look for graduates, not necessarily for subject knowledge but for skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and workload management. Earning a degree also demonstrates to employers that you have shown perseverance and discipline.
Although a degree isn’t a guarantee of a job, it can certainly improve your chances. A large percentage of graduates secure employment soon after finishing university.
Alternative routes
University isn’t the right fit for everyone, and there are plenty of alternative paths that may suit your goals. If you’re looking for a more practical, hands-on career or trade, then an apprenticeship can offer a direct path into the workforce. For careers in tech, art, or entrepreneurship, you might find alternatives such as bootcamps, online training, or other certifications serve you better. For these types of career, you might also find that experience and/or a portfolio of work will be more valuable to you than a degree.
You might also want to think about your working style. If you’re someone who may struggle with independent study, an alternative path might be a better fit. A gap year can also be a great option if you need more time to make a decision.
Some people prefer to start earning money right away. While a full-time university course usually doesn’t allow for a full-time job, part-time, evening, or distance study can be a more flexible option.
