With certain careers, it’s essential to undertake a course of study first. You wouldn’t want a doctor who knew nothing about the human body! However, there are good reasons why you can be better off not studying at university and going into work instead. Here are some of them.
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Being a student is very, very expensive, and paying off loans will take you years.When you total up the amount you pay in interest, is it really worth it?
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There will always be a demand for plumbers etc, so choosing practical training over academic study can lead to a more lucrative career. Such professions may still be regarded as predominantly male, but technically there is no reason why women can’t enter them.
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In the UK, the last government set a target of getting 50% of school leavers into university. As a result, degrees have been effectively devalued as so many people have them. This leads to employers asking for degrees when previously the same job needed much lower qualifications, just because they can.
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Not everyone is academically minded. For some people, studying is just not something they enjoy, and they may have other useful talents and skills.
Some individuals thrive in practical, hands-on environments, finding that they learn best by doing. This kinesthetic approach can lead to fulfillment and success in various trades and vocacies that aren't typically taught in a traditional classroom setting. Recognizing one's strength in these practical skills can be empowering, and often, entering the workforce early allows for gaining valuable experience, networking, and establishing a professional foundation that can be just as beneficial—if not more so—than the academic route for certain personalities and career goals.
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Sometimes starting at the bottom and working your way up can get you further than a degree. By the time your peers have graduated (in debt), you could be in a much higher position than they will be able to start with.
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Working full-time doesn’t mean an end to your chances of studying. It may take longer, but you can study at night school or follow a distance learning course. Your employer may even sponsor you to take relevant courses.
Balancing work and learning demands remarkable time management, but it's absolutely possible and fosters personal growth. Many organizations encourage their staff to pursue further education by offering flexible schedules or financial aid. This support can often be in the form of tuition reimbursement programs. Moreover, applying new knowledge immediately within your job role can lead to a deeper understanding and rapid skill advancement. Night classes and online courses are designed for the working professional, ensuring that you can tailor your learning experience around your existing commitments. Remember, with every challenge comes an opportunity to shine and show your dedication to both your career and personal development.
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There are numerous examples of entrepeneurs who do not have a university education, or even dropped out of school without gaining any qualifications. While we can’t all make millions, it is entirely possible to build a successful small business without having studied.
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The popular view is that you have to study when you are young. However, this is often the worst time. It may be better to establish yourself financially by working, and consider beginning to study at a later stage, when you can afford to fund yourself.
I’m all in favour of education, but recognise that formal study is not for everyone. With the days long gone when a degree was a sure route to a well-paid job, the costs of studying mean that it has to be considered carefully whether it’s worth it. What do you think – is studying essential, or have you done fine without it? Would you want your children to be in debt for their education?
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