What is Higher Education?
Higher education is any course at Level 4 or above. It is non-compulsory and follows further education which is typically undertaken in a college or sixth form (Level 3 qualification). Higher education qualifications can be studied at a university, college, or while taking an apprenticeship.
A Bachelor’s degree is a 3 year course (when you study full time) and can be taken in many subjects. Many people choose to study for a Bachelor’s degree as it can increase the number of jobs accessible to them, as well as being a great way to gain knowledge and skills in an area you are passionate about working in! The transferable skills you gain will be beneficial in any role, so you don’t always need an end career in mind, but some jobs need a specific course.
Who can go to university?
Anyone over 18! Universities will have different entry requirements for their courses and may require certain qualifications so it’s important to check what these are in advance. If you don’t currently have the qualifications you need or you have taken some time out after school, you can still go to university: it may be beneficial to take a Foundation Course which is a Level 4 course. It usually takes two years to complete and sometimes can be topped up to a full Bachelor’s degree but will usually have different entry requirements to the full degree so may allow you to access a course you are interested in.
Why go to university?
If you have a specific career in mind that requires a degree, university is essential to achieving your future plans. However if you aren’t sure what career you want, or you just want to continue studying a subject you are passionate about, university provides an opportunity to further your knowledge and develop a range of transferable skills that will make you a great candidate when it comes to applying for jobs!
University provides multiple opportunities to you. In addition to the chance to continue your education, you can take part in sports and societies developing transferable skills and qualities, as well as potentially undertaking placement years and work experience to meet new people. You might even enjoy university so much you stay on and continue to study or choose to work there! It could also be the first time you move away from home, gaining independence and possibly living in a new city.
