What can university do for me?

Deciding whether to go to university could be one of the most important decisions of your life.  Here are just a few things to think about.

…better jobs, better prospects and more choice

• Graduates are 50% more likely to get a job, and not just any old job.  Those with higher education qualifications can get better jobs with higher salaries from a wider selection.
• Many employers now expect high levels of education among their staff.  Therefore many non-graduates can only progress so far in their career, even if they do their job well.
• Whatever you want to do, your chances will be improved if you have a degree or diploma from a university or college.

…many jobs require a degree

• If you want to work in some professions (e.g. architecture, law, teaching, accountancy, engineering, medicine) you must have a relevant degree.

…earn 43% more

• Graduates with higher education qualifications, on average, earn 43% more than those without.  Average earnings (per hour) with the following qualifications:

Degree: £14.97

A-levels: £10.50

GCSEs: £9.41

(Department for Education and Skills)

Over an average 40 year working life time a graduate will earn £415, 320 more than someone without a degree (Labour Force Survey Figures)

…develop valuable skills

• Going to university gives you valuable skills that will look great on your CV and be attractive to employers.  Skills such as: IT, teamwork, problem-solving, proven readiness to work hard, time management, communication and presentation skills.

…work placements

• As part of some courses, students can take part in paid work placements.  These give you the opportunity to gain valuable industry-based experience.

…study abroad

• Many university students also have the chance to participate in exchange programmes.

…do what you love doing

• It’s not just about earning more money.  There are thousands of higher education courses for every interest.  Here are some ideas to get you started: sport, music, science, fashion, arts, business, engineering.

…a good time!

• One of the best things about university is the chance to have a good time.  Socialising plays a big part and there are loads of ways to have fun.  Most universities have very active sports and social scenes with countless clubs and societies you can join.  In the first few weeks of term there will be all sorts of events laid on (like fresher’ week parties and club meetings).  You’ll meet lots of new people from all over the world and make loads of new friends.

…everything on your doorstep

• Many universities have student accommodation, gyms and other sports facilities, banks, medical and dental practices, bars, nightclubs, cafés, shops and restaurants, all based on campus.

…plenty of support

• Universities provide students with all sorts of support, including: advice centres, accommodation advice, disability support, chaplaincy, counselling, financial aid and debt management advice, job shops and careers centres.

…new interests and experiences

• It’s a great opportunity to broaden your horizons and try out new interests.  Whatever you decide to do, you’ll gain confidence, knowledge and independence, and some friends and experiences that you’ll never forget.

Useful documents can be found below

1. Slides that were used at our University of Bedfordshire (UCAS) evening in July 2015
2. Making the Right Choice – for guidance on choosing courses and universities.
3. All About Me – for guidance with Personal Statements.
4. Student Finance presentation