Apprenticeship vs university is a hot topic for many school and college leavers in England right now. Choosing whether an apprenticeship or university is the best option for you will depend on your learning style, career goals and your financial situation. If you received lower than expected A-level results this week and are wondering if an apprenticeship may be the best option for you, Pro-Apprenticeships are here to offer some timely advice.
Apprenticeship vs university: The key differences
The key areas of difference between university and an apprenticeship are in learning style, financial commitment, lifestyle, and career path. If you’re A Level results mean your university plans have stalled, you’ll be pleased to know vocational apprenticeships have many benefits compared to traditional degrees. An apprenticeship offers a practical way to earn a wage, gain hands-on experience in a field that interests you, and leaves you with no student debt.
Let’s look at each area individually to see what that means for you.
Apprenticeship vs University: Learning style
University is a traditional academic option. You commit to 3-4 years of full-time study which is largely carried out on campus in a classroom setting. The difference between university and school is that the onus to complete the work to a high standard in a timely manner is on you. If you struggled with managing your workload at A Level, university may not be for you.
An apprenticeship is a form of vocational training. It’s practical and hands on. For most apprenticeships, you’ll spend around 80% of your time working and putting the skills you are learning into practice. The remaining 20% will be spent studying.
Both apprenticeship and University require you to be self-motivated and capable of managing your time effectively when it comes to learning. However, a university requires this to a much higher degree and may not suit you if you don’t enjoy academics.
Financial considerations
The standard full-time undergraduate tuition fee cap is currently £9,790 per year. This is often funded through student loans that you pay back over your working life. You will also need to budget for course materials and living costs, particularly if you move away from home for uni. University represents a large financial commitment that will impact your budget for many years after you graduate.
Conversely, the training costs for an apprenticeship are paid for by a combination of the government and your new employer. You will earn a wage from day one. No debt, just an opportunity to earn whilst you learn.
Career Choices: Is Apprenticeship or University the Right Path
If you have your heart set on a career such as medicine or law, then you will often need a specific degree. University can also give you extra time to consider your career path, allowing you to undertake a generalised degree with broad applications in the workplace.
Apprenticeships give you a direct entry into your chosen field such as engineering, marketing, or IT. If your passion lies in those fields, an apprenticeship is the best way to go. You gain invaluable years of experience whilst you learn and gain a strong position in the job market should you choose to move on from your original position.
Apprenticeship vs University: Lifestyle
University represents freedom in the minds of many school leavers who are anxious to get away from home and it’s true that it can be a great growth experience. You can join clubs and societies and make decisions without parents looking over your shoulder. However, that freedom has a flip side. You assume an adult role, managing your own household needs, budget – and your workload. University is not an easy option or an opportunity to coast.
An apprenticeship grants you access into the workforce in a supported fashion. You’ll have a routine and clear expectations and goals. You’ll also enjoy a wage whilst you’re training and, whilst you’ll likely have bills to pay, you’ll have cash in your pocket to spend as you see fit. Many companies also have social groups and activities which can expand your horizons and allow you to network.
I’ve just received lower A level grades than I expected, is an apprenticeship an option?
If your A level results have left you reconsidering your options and debating whether university or applying for an apprenticeship is the right choice, you’re not alone. Almost 25% of school leavers now opt for an apprenticeship instead of university. Apprenticeships represent a real alternative to a traditional university education and help young people like you develop their skills and forge successful career pathways.
If you’d like to learn more about your options when it comes to apprenticeships vs university reach out to our team.