What are alternatives to university? Five opportunities to success that do not include higher education
- Here are five ways to become successful if university life just isn’t for you
After months of anxious waiting, A-level results day is finally here and many students will be setting off to their first-choice universities.
But some may not have been so lucky, and many more will be anxious to take the big step into student life.
Those uncertain of the university path may think becoming successful without a degree sounds more like an urban myth.
But, while it may be more risky, there are ways to succeed without the need of a degree. Here are five opportunities to explore beyond University.
A-level results are finally here, but what are the options outside of university? Here are five avenues to explore rather than studying
1. Join a traineeship
A traineeship is a good alternative to a degree, they operate in a more practical sense and help young people become ready to take on the workplace.
Traineeships are suitable for those unemployed and aged 16 to 23 can join a traineeship, as well as young people with learning difficulty assessments up to the age of 25.
They can last between six weeks to six months and offer skills specific to the career that you want.
While you won’t be payed, you may be compensated for expenses such as travel and meals.
According to UCAS, traineeships can help develop the following skills:
- Work preparation training
- Skills you need to find a job
- Maths and English support
- Work experience
- An improved CV
You will need to register on the government website if you’re interested in finding a traineeship, which will allow you to search for suitable
2. Take up an apprenticeship
Many young people uncertain on whether University is the right path for them could choose to do an apprenticeship or traineeship for more hands-on learning
While traineeships are a great option for those starting from scratch, young people who have a bit more relevant work experience may want to opt for an apprenticeship.
Much like traineeships, apprenticeships prepare you for a career by providing job training but will offer a salary while you learn.
Most apprentices will spend 80 per cent of their time completing on the job training and 20 per cent learning from industry experts.
Generally, apprenticeships tend to be shorter than university courses and take between one to five years to complete.
To begin an apprenticeship you must 16 or over, living in England and outside of full-time education. However you can still apply while you’re still at school and under 16.
There are many different types of apprenticeships, all at different levels, so be sure to find the right one for you.
Apprenticeships have different levels, from level two to seven, and all are equivalent to educational levels from Intermediate to Degree level.
You can find an apprenticeship through the government website as well as in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
3. Take a gap year
Gap years can be more than just a holiday, many young people take the opportunity to sharpen their skills and save up
If you aren’t ready to take the plunge into university, a gap year may be a good alternative.
While many could mistake this postponement of university as a ‘year off’, it’s more than just a holiday, it can be a time to gain lots of relevant skills and build up your experience.
Many people opt for international travel, volunteer positions and working overseas. While others work to financially prepare themselves for university.
Pointing out a con of gap years, the UCAS website said: ‘Some people find a year out becomes a distraction from their long term plans.’
So it’s a good idea to have an end goal in mind to spend your time working towards.
4. Consider careers that don’t need degrees
There are many careers which don’t require degrees, such as hairdressing or becoming a personal assistant
University life isn’t for everyone, and while climbing the career ladder may seem impossible, there are many jobs that don’t require degrees.
According to Indeed, these jobs range from Firefighters and Prison Officers to Electricians and Plumbers.
If you fancy something a little less hands-on, you could become a hair stylist, the national average of which is £22,953 per year according to Indeed.
Similarly Personal assistants can earn £24,049 a year and develop a whole range of skills you wouldn’t necessarily learn in university.
You may be expected to undergo some sort of formal training, but most of these jobs pay a respectable salary.
5. Become self-employed
Starting your own business may seem daunting, but it can be a good alternative to university
If you’re more business savvy than academically clever, becoming self-employed may be the best option for you.
Although you might not earn a great deal of money to begin with, it’s a good way to pursue your passion and build up your network.
According to Indeed, there are a range of self-employed jobs you can pick from, many of which you could start without a university degree
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