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Feeling Uncertain About My Degree Choice – Need Advice!

Hi everyone,

To be honest, I’m one of those students who has no idea what they want to do after college. Right now, I’m planning to go to university because it feels like the easier and more straightforward route compared to apprenticeships.

I’ve been exploring different options that will help me broaden my knowledge and develop transferable skills, so I have the flexibility to enter various career paths. Initially, I considered a Business Management degree since my previous studies have been related to that field. However, after looking at the modules, I realised there are certain areas where I might struggle, which makes me hesitant.

Lately, I’ve been leaning towards a Criminology & Psychology degree. I know that, for some, this may not seem like the most “ideal” choice, but I’ve heard that the transferable skills gained from this degree can be valuable for different career paths—even outside the field. This is important to me since I’m unsure whether I want to pursue a traditional career related to the degree itself.

My teachers, career advisors, and friends all believe I’d do better in this degree than in Business Management. But honestly, I’m still unsure. I’ve seen so many people end up in careers completely different from their degree, and that makes me wonder if this choice will really be worth it in the long run.

I’d love to hear from others who might be in a similar situation or have any advice. Has anyone pursued a degree they weren’t 100% sure about and still found success?

Looking forward to your thoughts!
(edited 11 months ago)

Reply 1

Many and perhaps most graduates work in roles that do not directly relate to their degree. That does not make the degree worthless. Almost any rigorous course of study is worthwhile. Study a subject that interests you. You can decide on a career later.
Hello there!

Business degrees can be a great fit for that because they offer a broad skill set. But if you have looked at the modules and feel you might struggle or not enjoy the content, it's understandable to explore other options that align better with your interests and strengths.

Criminology & Psychology might seem like a niche route, but it can actually lead to so many different paths, such as law, social research, policy, HR, marketing, even further postgraduate options. And like you said, the transferable skills - research, critical thinking, communication - are super valuable in a lot of industries. What really matters is that you’re doing something that keeps you engaged enough to finish it strong and learn along the way.

There are tons of students, who didn’t have it all figured out, but still found direction once they were actually in university!
Your degree doesn’t box you in, it’s more like a launchpad. If your teachers and advisors see your strengths aligning more with Criminology & Psychology, and it’s something you’re starting to feel curious about, that’s definitely worth considering.

Whatever you choose, remember: it’s not just about the title of your degree, it’s about the skills, the experiences, and the confidence you build during your time at uni.

You’re doing great, and you’ll find your way!

I hope this helps!

Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador

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