Alternatives to university

What other options are there if you're not sure about going to university?

warning sign - tough decisions aheadToday's school leavers are under increasing pressure to go to university from the Government, employers, universities and often schools and parents. But university is not right for everyone. It is worth noting that a significant number of students become unhappy at university and either drop out each year without completing their course, or complete, but often with poor results.

There are various alternatives if you would prefer something different. Contact us if you would like to find out more about them or to see whether they might be a good idea for you. If you decide to opt for employment at this stage, we can also guide you on job searching and application skills.

We use professional software to carry out personality and career profiling and we can offer one to one guidance to help you make your decision.

Combining degree courses with employment

If you are happy about the idea of studying for a degree, but are put off by the thought of spending three years on campus, with no income and perhaps considerable expenditure on your social life, then why not consider studying for a degree part-time? Many universities now offer part-time study options. Alternatively, consider degree courses by distance learning, which are privately taught. If you are a British based student you may not get financial support from the government for them. However, many students find this a cheaper way to study than being on campus. Check the accreditation/recognition of the degree awarding institution.

Short vocational courses

For many jobs it is essential to get some practical experience beforehand. If you are interested in working in an office in a general administrative capacity or if you want to move into the broad areas of marketing or PR without a degree (and even with one), you should do a short office skills course during which you will learn the necessary practical computer and keyboard skills and also the essentials of office management. Longer courses incorporate other features, such as marketing and languages, etc. After that, many people do temp work until they find a suitable environment where they can work their way up the ladder. There are many other practical courses available on the market on a part-time or full-time basis in both the public and private sectors. Also, consider the merits of foundation degrees and HNCs/HNDs.

In house training

There are still a number of companies and other organisations which take on young people with A-levels or the equivalent and which offer them part-time academic training leading to relevant professional qualifications, some of which are regarded as the equivalent of a first degree. Examples include the Armed Forces and emergency services, the Merchant Navy, retail, hotel and catering, IT, accountancy, estate agencies, and certain branches of the law. Another option is to undertake an apprenticeship. These training courses enable you to learn skills and gain qualifications and be paid a wage.

Delayed entry into university

If you are unsure about what to study at university, or even about the merits of going to university at all, consider taking a break from formal academic study once you leave school. This can take the form of a gap year, or it could be a longer period of employment and/or vocational training. This gives you a good opportunity to find out how you might fit into the world of work, whether you will really need a degree to get ahead in your chosen field and, if so, the added motivation to succeed on your course. It is also a chance to add to your practical qualifications and perhaps do some travelling. There are plenty of opportunities to enter university later on as a mature student.

Starting your own business

If you have a great idea which you feel you can turn into a commercial success, another option is to start your own business. It is a risky enterprise, but there are various business start up organisations which can advise you. Young people aged 18-30 living in England, Wales or Northern Ireland might consider the Enterprise Programme of The Prince's Trust.  You should spend some time getting qualifications and work experience before you launch in.