Alternatives to Uni

University is a great way to gain the skills and qualifications that will help you get a job in later life. But studying at university isn't for everyone, and for most career paths, there's more than one way to get there. I'm going to explore some of the other options that might be a great alternative if uni isn't quite right for you:

Internships

Sometimes called Work Placements or Work Experience, Internships can last anywhere from a week to a few months and are a great way to gain experience in a variety of industries. They are also good for college students as many internships work around the school term times. While some interns are paid, many internships are unpaid. If you are currently on an unpaid internship and you think you should be paid, visit the Government's page on internships to find out more. https://www.gov.uk/employment-rights-for-interns While an internship isn't a long term solution, many can lead on to full-time employment, and they are a great way of improving your CV.

Degree Apprenticeships

Degree Apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular and are a great option if you want to go straight into the world of work but also want to get a degree. They are also a good option if you struggle to learn in a classroom setting, as the week is usually split up with four days of work and one day of learning. Typically available for STEM and financial sector subjects, these are best suited if you want a job such as accounting or engineering. Like with any job, you'll get a salary while on a degree apprenticeship, but you will have to cover your living costs as well. A Degree Apprenticeship can last anywhere between one and five years.

Higher Apprenticeships

A Higher Apprenticeship is very similar to a Degree Apprenticeship, lasting between one and five years. The main difference is that a Higher Apprenticeship can give you any qualification (level 4 and above) but not necessarily a degree (level 6/7). They are also likely to include a slightly wider range of subject areas.

Entry Level Jobs

Entry Level Jobs are regular jobs designed for people just entering the workforce. Some will require a degree or work experience, but others won't. This is a good option if your chosen career doesn't require a degree for you to succeed. However, many Entry Level Jobs are highly competitive, and you may find it easier if you have already completed an Internship or done some work experience.

Traineeships

A Traineeship is a training programme or course designed for 16-24 year-olds. Typically lasting up to six months, these courses are designed to give you the support you need to enter the working world. These can also help you improve your skills if you are struggling to get accepted onto an Apprenticeship scheme. Traineeships are unpaid, but you will be entitled to financial support as you count as a student.

As you can see, there are loads of alternative options to a university degree. Some of these options might be better suited to your career goals, so it's worth considering the pros and cons of each option.