Benefits of studying at university

University can feel like a huge decision. It throws up all sorts of questions.

You might be the first in your family to consider university, or simply uncertain about the investment. Either way, it’s a big decision that requires plenty of thought. This article shares some of the benefits of studying at university to help you make your decision.

University is a great way to further develop your academic interests in a discipline of your choice.

Many degrees will also give you the opportunity to develop practical skills as a part of your degree. For example, you could gain lab skills from a science-based course, or camera and editing skills from a degree in film or media production.

Throughout your degree you’ll specialise even further, meaning you could graduate as an expert in an area you love. It could even be a topic you’d never heard of before you started your degree!

Do you have a career in mind? Some jobs require a particular degree, including jobs in the medical field, law, and certain sciences. That doesn’t mean every career will need you to go to university, but many degrees are a fantastic stepping stone into a range of industries. You’ll also gain essential personal and employability skills, such as time management, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills.

Your degree could also segue into a graduate job to help you further develop the expertise you’ve gained at university. Or, if you want to get going when building your dream career while you study, degree apprenticeships are a great and popular option among school and college leavers. They’ll give you the opportunity to gain a higher-level qualification while learning and earning on the job.

Academic study and career prospects aside, university is a fantastic opportunity to develop personally. You could end up in a new place, with new people, studying a new subject. And while this might seem daunting, it’s a great way to mature and learn about other people and cultures.

University also provides many opportunities to try new things. For instance, there might be a hobby you’d like to start or continue with. University societies and sports teams will connect you with new people who share the same interests as you. This can really help you to settle into university life. Get out of your comfort zone. Give a few societies a go. You won’t regret it. You could learn something new about yourself in the process.