Careers – Higher Education

We hope to inspire all students to consider higher education. Some students may go to university or into another type of higher education after their next stage of education.  

You can often study flexibly at your own pace by learning online or part-time. Courses are usually taught in universities, colleges, or specialist institutions like art schools. 

Types of qualifications 

There are many different types of higher education qualifications, such as: 

• Diplomas 
• Bachelor degrees 
• Foundation degrees and foundation years
• HTQs 
• Degree level apprenticeships 

What you will do 

Most higher education courses give you the chance to learn through: 

• lectures 
• seminars 
• workshops 
• group projects 
• independent study
• placement years 

Subjects you can take 

You have got a lot of choice when it comes to higher education. There are hundreds of different subjects to choose from. You may decide to study a general subject, like English or history. This can help you keep your options open and give you the skills you need for many different jobs and careers. Alternatively, you may want to take a specific subject like medicine, law, or architecture to prepare you for a particular career. 

You can explore different subjects on the UCAS website. 

Entry requirements 

Each provider and qualification will have its own entry requirements that you will need to meet. You will usually need A levels or a qualification that is the same level. You can take an access to higher education diploma to prepare you for university if you’re over 19 and do not have A levels.  

Tuition fees and funding 

Most universities and colleges charge a tuition fee to cover the cost of your course. You can apply for funding from student finance to support you. You may also be eligible for a scholarship, grant, or bursary, depending on your circumstances and the subject you are studying. 

After higher education 

You can use your higher education qualifications towards: 

• postgraduate degrees
• graduate employment schemes 
• getting a job