The decision to go to university or not is a very personal one - it's right for some people, but it’s not for everyone. You may have friends who are set on going, others who want to get a job or an apprenticeship, and others who want to go travelling. Whatever your friends are doing, or whatever you feel is expected of you, the decision to go to university or not has to be yours.
- What are your goals? Think about what career you want and whether you need a degree to do it. Some professions (eg doctor, engineer) require a degree, while others value experience and vocational skills more.
- Evaluate the alternatives: Consider apprenticeships, HTQs, or getting a job.
- Financial considerations: Calculate tuition fees and living costs, taking into account available loans and grants or scholarships. Compare this with the potentially increased salary that comes from having a degree.
- Academic suitability: Be prepared for independent study, research, and meeting deadlines.
- Experience the environment: Attend open days to get a feel for whether the campus, the city, and the social life fit your personality.
Don’t rush the decision. What matters is choosing the right path for you. Ultimately, the decision should balance your career goals with your personal happiness and financial security.
Ask yourself these questions:
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Do I enjoy academic learning?
Are you passionate about a particular subject? Do you want to learn more about it?
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Do I need a degree for my chosen career?
Some jobs don’t require a degree, but others do. Also, you might get a job in your chosen industry, but progressing to higher levels might require a degree. Do some research to find out what is required for your chosen career.
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Am I ready for independent study?
Can you manage your time and priorities? Are you self-motivated?
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What are my financial considerations?
There is a lot of financial support such as tuition fee loans and maintenance grants, but going to university is a big financial investment (currently £9,535 per year for tuition fees). You must be prepared to repay the tuition fee once you start earning above the threshold salary (currently £28,470).
While going to university is a big commitment - personally and financially - it can bring huge benefits that can last a lifetime. Graduates typically earn 32-37% more than non-graduates by the age of 31. [Universities UK, 2024]. You will also meet like-minded people; students, lecturers, employers - who will become part of your professional network, so you’ll have access to career opportunities.
It’s not just your professional network that will expand; many students make friends for life at university, meeting people from different places and backgrounds.
On a personal level, most people who go to university find that they become more independent, confident, and gain skills that can help them in any situation such as teamworking, communication, and time management.
If you like to travel then university can also offer you opportunities to visit, study, volunteer or even live in countries around the world.
- Apprenticeships
- Degree apprenticeships
- HTQs
Start your employment - One of the biggest advantages of getting a job rather than going to university is the money you will earn. Earning regular money can help you become financially independent, and experience over qualifications can be an advantage in certain careers. But remember that you may only be able to progress so far in an industry if it requires a degree for certain roles.
Apprenticeships - You could consider combining working and studying with an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships mean you have a job and a salary and spend around 80% of your time working and 20% studying for a qualification. Apprenticeships are available from the age of 16 and range from foundation (level 2) all the way up to degree apprenticeship (level 6/7), which are primarily aimed at 18-19-year-olds who have completed their A levels or equivalent. Apprenticeships are fully funded by your employer and/or government.
Higher Technical Qualifications - Another alternative to doing a degree is Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs). These are level 4 and 5 qualifications for people aged 18+ who want a more employer-led, shorter route into skilled employment. Employers have helped develop HTQs so you get the right training and skills you need to succeed in your chosen industry. DMU offers HTQs in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security and software development.