Is uni worth it?

hey guys! hope you’re doing well. i start sixth form this september. i was looking at my career path after sixth form. i have always wanted to go to university, but after discovering that some people don’t even get jobs after spending so much money and time there, i don’t know anymore! will a degree apprenticeship be a better option? thank you for your time!

Reply 1

Flamingo10

It is not a good idea to go to university just because everyone else is going or because you want "the university experience." As you say these days you can leave university with significant debt. If you can get to where you want to be without going to university then there isn't a lot of point in going.

Reply 2

FourLeggedFriend

It depends on what you want to do for a career. Is an apprenticeship an option for the career paths you're interested in? How do you apply/qualify for them? Are you eligible? How are they funded?

If you go for the university option, can you find a university course with a placement year? That would give you the benefit of work experience and industry connections very early in your career, giving you a head start.

Do you have a careers service at your college? It might be worth talking it through with them.

Reply 3

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Original post

by iunknowndevice

Hi,

Both university and degree apprenticeships have their pros and cons, so it really depends on what suits you best.

University opens up many career options, especially if your chosen job requires a degree. For example, I’m a pharmacy student, and the only way to become a pharmacist is through university. University is also a great opportunity to explore different subjects, develop academic skills, and experience university life, with access to support and networking opportunities. However, university can be expensive and may lead to student debt. Some degrees don’t lead directly to a job, which means you might need to gain additional work experience. The learning tends to be mostly classroom-based and less practical.

Degree apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, gaining a salary and real work experience. They focus on practical, job-related training and often lead to permanent roles. There is usually little or no debt, and you develop professional skills early on. On the downside, apprenticeships can be very competitive with limited places, offer less freedom in what you study, require balancing work and study, and aren’t available in all career paths.

If your career requires a degree, university is often the essential route. But if you prefer hands-on learning and want to earn while gaining experience, a degree apprenticeship can be a great option. If you’re unsure, university tends to keep more doors open and gives you more time to decide.

I’d also recommend speaking to a careers advisor at your school, researching courses on UCAS or apprenticeship providers’ websites, and attending open days or course taster events. These will help you get a better idea of what to expect and which option suits you best.

Wishing you all the best for your future!

Tayba
Student Rep

Reply 4

Flamingo10

Some jobs don't need a degree or a degree apprenticeship as the training required can only be done on the job.