University
University is still the right choice for many careers, and essential for some — medicine, law and teaching among them. It's worth weighing honestly against a degree apprenticeship, which gets you the same qualification without the debt but with less flexibility and no campus life.
What you get
- Essential for some professions, including medicine and teaching
- The widest subject choice of any route
- Tuition fees are repaid through a graduate-contribution system
- Compare carefully with a degree apprenticeship at the same level
Who it's for
Anyone weighing full-time study against an apprenticeship or work.
Common questions
Is university better than an apprenticeship?
Neither is better in the abstract — it depends on the career. Some professions require a degree; in others, employers value paid experience just as highly. A degree apprenticeship gives you both.
Can I do a degree without the debt?
Yes — a Level 6 or 7 degree apprenticeship leads to the same qualification with fees paid by your employer, while you earn a salary.