Is university right for your child?

If they go to university, several career options will be open to them regardless of what subject they study. If your child is unsure of their career direction or wants to explore many different potential paths through work experience, placements and extracurricular activities, a university degree may be a great option for them.

They can take advantage of clubs, societies and positions of responsibility to get experience that relates to the world of work e.g. sponsorship officer or treasurer for the charity society or a journalist for the student radio station. They can also learn and explore within their degree subject by choosing specific modules or projects to discover their interests or develop specific skills and competencies.

It is important to keep in mind that for some careers it is essential to go to university.

Your school’s careers teacher will be able to advise you and your child about these careers, their degree requirements and if your child needs to study any specific subjects at GCSE or A Level in order to secure a place on that degree programme.

Motivation is very important in achieving success, and for most university courses, being able to study independently without close supervision is essential. Although this is a general expectation of students, course programs will include a mix of self-study and collaborative working. Personal tutors and support staff will also be on hand to help and guide students.

When researching universities and courses, spend time reviewing the styles of teaching and assessments to choose the structure that is best for your child, as well as those which have a reputation for strong pastoral care. At university, there are endless opportunities for them to broaden horizons and get work experience and awards outside of their academic studies, and they must be motivated to make the most of these.

At university, students usually get the freedom to choose the course, modules and projects that best match their interests and aspirations.

If the following is important to your child, then university could be a good fit:

• Studying a subject that really interests them
• Pursuing a specific career which requires a university degree
• Being able to choose the modules and projects that most appeal to them
• The option to move away from home and live independently
• Meeting new people, making new friends and having new experiences
• Getting involved in activities such as sport, theatre or politics
• Having time to explore interests, values and career options before any big decisions about jobs must be made

A university degree improves career prospects and earning potential. On average, people with higher education qualifications earn more over their working lives than nongraduates.

Going to university can give your child a head start as they develop transferable skills valued by employers, such as the ability to work with others, critical and analytical thinking, research skills, problem-solving and communication skills. These skills, together with an academic qualification, will give them an advantage in the ever-competitive world of employment.