Learn More: Higher Education

UK universities are among the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the world. The University of Oxford, for example, is nearly 1,000 years old and is currently ranked as the best university globally, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021. Additionally, 29 UK universities are featured in the top 200. Here in the UK, we have access to a vast array of excellent universities, offering courses in almost any subject imaginable. Attending university is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s also about gaining new skills and having diverse experiences. Moreover, university serves as a gateway to career success and has been shown to significantly enhance your earning potential.

What sub-sections are available on this page?

• • • Overview of Higher Education
    • Reasons to Attend University
    • What Can I Study?
    • Is Attending University a Good Investment?
    • How to Get Started

A university is an institution of higher education (HE) and research that awards academic degrees across various disciplines. Universities typically offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes within different schools or faculties. 

Higher Education Course Structure

Undergraduate courses (also known as Bachelor’s degrees) are the most common higher education offerings, as they are the first step towards progressing to postgraduate study. These courses usually last three years and cover levels 3 to 6. The following are the types of undergraduate degrees a student can pursue: 

• Honours and ordinary degrees
• Qualified teacher status
• Enhanced first degrees
• Intercalated degrees

Upon completing an undergraduate course, students may be eligible to enrol in a postgraduate programme. These courses generally last one or two years, depending on the type of qualification, and typically cover level 7. Postgraduate options include: 

• Master’s degrees (taught or research),
• Postgraduate diplomas (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law)
• Postgraduate certificates in education (PGCE)
• Professional degrees.

After completing this level of education, students may also have the opportunity to pursue a doctorate, commonly referred to as a PhD. 

There are other types of HE undergraduate courses that, while less common, are still highly valuable. These include: 

• Foundation degrees
• SVQs (Scottish Vocational Qualifications)
• NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications)
• Higher National Diplomas (HND) or equivalent
• NHC (National Higher Certificate) or equivalent

How Long Do Courses Take?

An undergraduate course typically takes three years to complete, although in Scotland, it usually requires four years. An increasing number of UK universities now offer four-year undergraduate courses, also known as “sandwich courses,” which include a year of workplace experience, usually during the third year. 

There are over 50,000 undergraduate courses offered by more than 395 providers in the UK, so you will find plenty of options to consider. Importantly, there are courses available for almost everyone, regardless of your background or prior education. In some cases, you may have the opportunity to take a foundation year at university. Foundation years are often designed for individuals who do not meet the entry requirements for a specific course, allowing them to catch up and subsequently begin their full course. 

If you don’t want to attend university in person, The Open University (OU) is a distance learning institution in the UK that provides flexible higher education opportunities for students of all backgrounds. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, allowing learners to study at their own pace while balancing work, family, and other commitments. With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, the OU caters to those who may not have the opportunity to attend traditional universities. 

For detailed lists on the universities available in the UK, as well as the courses they offer, visit British Uni to learn more.

Positives of Going to University 

• University graduates typically earn more than non-graduates, helping them achieve personal goals like buying a house or travelling. Beyond academics, university provides a unique experience that fosters independence, builds friendships with diverse individuals, and facilitates personal growth through new learning challenges. 

• Although some graduates find suitable jobs while others do not, this variability exists for all career paths. A degree may not guarantee employment, but it often serves as a valuable stepping stone to success. 

• Student debt can be a concern, but in England, repayments are based on earnings, ensuring you never pay more than you can afford. Importantly, this debt does not affect credit scores or mortgage applications, so it shouldn’t deter you from considering university. 

Negatives of Going to University 

• Many students attend university simply because their peers do, which isn’t a valid reason. University is not the right fit for everyone, particularly if you’re not academically inclined or uninterested in further study. There are numerous successful individuals who have forged alternative paths without a degree. 

• While the social aspect of university is appealing, it should not be the primary motivator for attending. Earning a degree demands hard work and commitment. 

Conclusion 

Deciding whether to go to university requires careful consideration. Conduct thorough research, visit campuses, and reflect on your motivations and goals to determine if it’s the right choice for you. 

For guidance on applying to universities, visit the UCAS website. 

For guidance on applying to universities, visit the UCAS website.