It can be hard to know what choices to make when you leave compulsory education. There are multiple routes and options that might suit you and your path might be totally different to what your friends choose!
We’ve discussed what university is, who can go to university and why you might want to go in more detail here to help you consider your future choices but if you have any more questions, contact us via the chat feature at the bottom of the page!!
What is Higher Education?
Higher Education is any course resulting in a level 4 or higher qualification. It is non-compulsory and follows Further Education which is typically undertaken in a College or Sixth Form (A Levels and Level 3 qualification). Higher Education qualifications are traditionally studied at university, but it is possible to study some HE qualifications at a college.
The first degree you study for at university is at Undergraduate level and called a Bachelor’s degree. It typically takes 3 years depending on what you study and is required before you can progress to other degrees if you choose to. Many people choose to study for a Bachelor’s degree as it can increase the number of jobs accessible to them, as well as being a great way to gain knowledge and skills in an area you are passionate about working in! Even if you ultimately chose to work in a different area to the topic your degree is in, the transferable skills you gain will be beneficial in any role. Some people may choose to study for a degree in order to access a specific career such as to be a Doctor, Nurse or Architect. Not all degrees lead to a specific career or job but the skills and experience you acquire at university can be invaluable to future careers.
Who can go to university?
As long as you are over 18, anyone can go to university! Universities will have different entry requirements for their courses and may require certain qualifications so it’s important to check what these are in advance, particularly for courses that require specific A Levels. If you don’t currently have the qualifications you need or you have taken some time out after school, you can still go to university: it may be beneficial to take a Foundation Course which is a Level 4 course. It usually takes two years to complete and sometimes can be topped up to a full Bachelor’s degree but will usually have different entry requirements to the full degree so may allow you to access a course you are interested in.
Why go to university?
If you have a specific career in mind that requires a degree, university is essential to achieving your future plans. However if you aren’t sure what career you want, or you just want to continue studying a subject you are passionate about, university provides an opportunity to further your knowledge and develop a range of transferable skills that will make you a great candidate when it comes to applying for jobs!
University provides multiple opportunities to you. In addition to the chance to continue your education, you can take part in sports and societies developing transferable skills and qualities, as well as potentially undertaking placement years and work experience to meet new people. You might even enjoy university so much you stay on and continue to study or choose to work there! It could also be the first time you move away from home, gaining independence and possibly living in a new city.
If you have any questions about studying at university, send us a message via the chat button at the bottom right of this page!
