To degree, or not to degree? That is the question

Researching your post-18 options can seem like an overwhelming task as there are a number of options. With so many paths - university, apprenticeships, employment, or even a gap year - it’s easy to feel stuck. But making the right choice starts with understanding what’s out there and what suits you.

You're not alone in facing this decision. In fact, more than half (56%) of UK students say they don’t feel well-informed about their post-18 options, according to UCAS research. That’s why we’ve pulled together this guide, to help break down your choices and help you move forward with confidence.

This blog will help you to understand some of the key points to consider when making your next-step decisions while studying your college course. We’ll also give you some useful links, which will aid you in your research.

Option 1: University

Research your career requirements

Some careers require higher-level learning as a minimum entry requirement into the profession. So, it’s important to research your preferred career to see if a degree level qualification is a requirement.

Here are some useful websites to help you: Start, National Careers Service and Prospects. There are more websites available for your research, including industry-specific ones, so it’s wise to explore those as well.

Higher education outside of university

Doing a Higher Education qualification such as a HNC, HND, Foundation degree or degree doesn’t mean you have to go to university. Colleges also offer these higher-level qualifications, such as our higher education partner UCEN Manchester.

Salary and career outcomes

Having a higher-level qualification could help you earn a higher salary. Graduates generally earn more across their lifetime than non-graduates. However, this isn’t automatically the case for everyone. It can depend on the subject studied. Some graduates feel they may have been better off financially if they hadn’t gone to university. So, when doing your research, take a look at graduate destinations: Luminate has lots of useful articles on graduates and what they do after uni.

Life skills and independence

University gives you the option to move away from home. Going to university has been a rite of passage for some students. After all, breaking away from home to live independently and gain life skills is just as important as the qualification you will get from university.

Course length and location

Degrees generally last 3 to 4 years. There are some exceptions where they can take longer depending on the career you are pursuing, such as medicine or architecture. Deciding where you want to live and study for this length of time is crucial in your research stage, so we would recommend attending university open days – lots are offering virtual tours!

So, is university worth it?

University can be worth it if your chosen career requires a degree, or if you want the broader experience and skills it offers. However, it’s important to weigh the costs, research your career pathway, and make sure it’s the right move for you.

Option 2: Apprenticeships

Applying for an apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are a job. You need to apply and go through an application cycle with an employer, which could involve an interview or assessment centre. They can be advertised at any point in the year. This also means you’ll earn a salary whilst completing the apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship opportunities

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries from construction to media and business to healthcare. It’s worth exploring the opportunities available in your local area. Total People are an apprenticeship provider that the college works closely with, and they offer a range of apprenticeship opportunities. Some additional starting points are the Find an Apprenticeship and amazing Apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships vs university: Is it better to do an apprenticeship or a degree?

These are far more competitive than university as there aren’t as many opportunities as there are places at university. However, you don’t have to pay tuition fees when doing an apprenticeship and as well as the qualification, you’ll also gain lots of experience. Working with an employer, you’ll spend 80% of your time doing the job and 20% learning.

Apprenticeships can last from anywhere between 1 and 6 years. The length will depend on the level of apprenticeship, as well as the employer. For example, some level 3 apprenticeships can last 18-24 months, whereas a level 6 (degree) Solicitor apprenticeship will last 5 to 6 years. This is quite a commitment, so you need to be absolutely sure that the career you are pursuing is the right one for you.

Can I do an apprenticeship if I have a degree?

Yes, you can. Having a degree doesn’t stop you from doing an apprenticeship, but it depends on the subject. If your degree is in a different area to the apprenticeship you want to do, you’re usually eligible.

Option 3: Employment

Starting work after college

Perhaps you decide that after finishing your college course, you want to enter the labour market and find your first job in a new career. This works best for those careers where you don’t need a higher-level qualification, or for those who prefer to get started in their career first and then build up their experience.

Understanding the labour market

In these instances, it is crucial to understand your labour market. You need to know that there will be vacancies in the area for you to apply for, as well as understanding what employers want in terms of experience and skills from applicants.

How The Manchester College can help

The Careers & Welfare team can help you to develop your employability skills. We can help you to navigate the labour market and learn how to search and find opportunities, as not all job opportunities will be advertised.

Option 4: Gap year

Why take a gap year?

A gap year is useful if you want to do something with your time while you continue to weigh up your options. It can help to enhance your CV for employers, you can use it to gain work experience related to what you want to do in the future and enhance applications for jobs or university, or you could learn a new skill.

Planning your gap year

You need to be clear on why you want to take a gap year and what you want to achieve from it. You need to plan and set yourself goals to achieve, otherwise you could end up wasting the year.

Funding your gap year

Some gap year adventures require finance. This means you need to have the funding up front in order to commit to the programme. If you decide to travel, you need to have the funds to do it, or work out a plan on how you can safely earn money whilst travelling. Planning your route, travel and accommodation is crucial - and certainly helps to develop transferable skills!

Here are some useful links to help you start researching your gap year opportunities UCAS and Prospects.

Should I take a gap year or go to university?

It depends on your goals and readiness. If you’re certain about your course and career path, starting university straight away might make sense. But if you’re unsure, want to gain experience, or need time to plan properly, a gap year can be a valuable way to build skills and confidence before committing. The key is to have a clear plan so the year adds to your future and doesn’t delay it.

Choose The Manchester College to begin your education journey

Wherever you want your future to take you, The Manchester College is here to help you get there. With a wide range of courses in growing industries, expert support and strong links to employers and universities, we’ll help you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed. Start your journey with us, enrol on to one of our college courses today and take the first step toward an exciting career.