Apprenticeship Vs Degree: What's Best for Me?

Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular choice when it comes to training and qualifications. But, while there is increasing recognition of the benefits of apprenticeships, many people still presume that a degree is more valuable.
This is not always the case. In many industries an apprenticeship is preferable to a degree. But which is right for you?
Type of qualification
Many people choose to pursue a degree because they want to ensure that they have some sort of formal qualification. Of course, a degree is a valuable asset; indeed, many employers will only consider applicants with a degree.But it is important to remember that an apprenticeship will give you a qualification. The type of qualification you receive will depend on the type of apprenticeship you receive, but you can be sure that it will be relevant to, and valued within, the industry in which you choose to work.
Type of learning
Degrees and apprenticeships involve two distinct learning types. Many degrees tend to involve exclusively or primarily classroom-based learning, and this is not suitable for everyone. Apprenticeships, on the other hand, involve a more hands-on approach to learning that will see you actually doing the job for which you are training.Of course, it is also recognised that some ‘formal’ learning is also required in an apprenticeship situation. As a result, apprentices will still be required to complete some classroom-based tasks, either with their employer or with a dedicated learning provider. More information on the role of learning providers is available elsewhere on this site.
Cost
Cost is a major factor in education choices. The looming rise in tuition fees, which will see the cost of a degree rise, is likely to put many people off going to university. Of course, if you are considering a degree you need to work out whether or not this is a price you are willing to pay. Remember that you will not have to pay anything back until you start earning.An apprenticeship, on the other hand, will see you earn while you train. You will be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for your work, and many apprentices are paid much more than this. You will also receive the additional benefits to which employees are entitled.¬
Employment prospects
For many people, the primary aim of any qualification is to increase their chances of getting a job. Your employment prospects will, of course, depend on the industry you choose to enter – and this will also inform your choice of qualification. Some industries require a degree, but many others actually prefer to build their workforces through apprenticeship schemes.It is also worth remembering that, as an apprentice, you will also be employed. The importance of this cannot be overstated; it means that you will be earning while you train, and that you will be incorporated into the workforce at an earlier stage.
Your choice of qualification will depend on a range of factors, including the job you wish to pursue and your own personal circumstances. If you are in doubt you should speak to a careers advisor.
Re: Working Hours and Holidays
anonymous My Salon has no clients and i was told im not needed tomorrow should i still get paid as this is not my fault?
Re: Your Rights as an Apprentice
My son is an apprentice, he started around 3 months ago, he is paid weekly, however he.hasnt been paid for nearly 3 weeks by his…
Re: What is Minimum Age for Building Site Apprenticeship?
let’s start off with the fact that i’m 16, female, for my whole life i wanted to be a mid wife &…
Re: Fixed Term Apprentice Contracts and Dismissal
My son age 16 started an apprenticeship July 2023 his contract specifies 6 month’s probation period. 3…
Re: Your Rights as an Apprentice
Hello I was offered and apprenticeship in finance level 3 ( I have completed level 2 in 2020 ) in April this year because I wanted…
Re: Can I Sack an Apprentice?
My son has been on an apprenticeship, he came home early today to say that his contract had been terminated. His boss had a telephone…
Re: Apprentices' Frequently Asked Questions
Hi I currently undertaking your Teaching Assistant: Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Certificate (RQF)…
Re: Your Rights as an Apprentice
My daughter on her second week on a hairdressing apprenticeship has a contract 40 hours been told to take 2 days off unpaid as the…
Re: Fixed Term Apprentice Contracts and Dismissal
My son was just about to start the second year of his Level 3 Domestic Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeship…
Re: Your Rights as an Apprentice
Good day, My son is still waiting to be signed off of his three year engineering apprenticeship and he is now just starting his…