Why should I go?
Going to uni will make you more attractive to employers and you'll have loads of new experiences. You'll get to study your favourite subjects in more depth, and if you study away from home you'll find out what independent adult life is like. But uni isn't for everyone. It can be expensive and stressful.
Factoid Over 90 percent of students now take on work at some point during their course NUS
What should I study?
Doing any degree shows employers that you're smart and motivated - important skills for any job. The main thing is to study something you want to learn more about. Talk to your teachers. They'll advise you on which university subjects match your skills and abilities - and which ones don't.
Can I afford it?
By 2010, average student debt could be as high as £30,000. You will get a student loan but tuition fees, rent, food and nights out all add up. Many students have to work part-time to cover their costs.
What is student life like?
You're expected to study hard, but uni is also fun. The social scene is buzzing around most unis and you'll make new friends and try new things. It can be hard being away from friends and family though, and money will be tight.
Can I get a good job without a degree?
While some jobs require a degree, there are plenty that don't. However, you are likely to start on a lower wage without a degree. Distance learning is a good way to get a degree and avoid debt as you can have a full-time job and study in the evenings. This is hard work though - it can be quite lonely and the study is demanding on top of a working day.
Written by Naomi Stevens
Last updated July 2007
Further help and advice
UCAS: Advice on how to apply
NUS Online
100s of distance learning courses
I Could - careers advice
Not Going To Uni: explore your options
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amy
if your not sure what to study, choose a subject you enjoy or are good at. 60 percent of employers dont mind what degree you have, as long as you have one.
hannah, 18
The subjects I would choose to study at uni would be anthropology and phillosophy, two subjects I would never use as part of my chosen career. Racking up alot of debt and delaying the 'real world' for another 3 years seems completly ridiculus. Although it is quite tempting to put off getting a full time job, as the thought is so daunting, but that is no reason to go to uni!
Alex , 20
I'm in the same boat as Phil. I left school and went straight into full time employment. Now i'm 20 i really like the idea of Uni & i'm starting an Access to Hgiher Education course this September, ready for my degree in the following year! x
esther, 22
Being a university undegradute has enabled me to explore my different potential and its a pathway that i am very glad i have taken because i know that my future is bright. I urge people not to dwell to much in the view of being in debt because in the end, you will not regret it. it changes your view towards life, people, politics and all you can ever imagine.
Cin,
I don't think that a degree will give you the opportunity to get a better job...I notice that the only way to get a good job and to earn a lot of money is knowing influent people who can help you. And i think it's a damage that people who like studying could't be appreciated for that..
Lauren, , 18
Thats fair enough if you know what you want to study, but supposing you don't? i don't know what i want to study because i don't know what career path i want to follow. and if i make the wrong choice i might have wasted all that money for nothing
Phil, 21
I went staright into employment when i left school, although after a few years i wish i didnt make that choice, so last year i enrolled on a Access To Higher Education Course - now i'm on my way to uni to study law. It will enable me to get a better job with a far better wage!!
onelife
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