Apprenticeships or University: Can You Only Choose One?

With the first UCAS deadline rapidly approaching, it seems fair to say that minds are made up on the path they wish to take. University or bust. But many students are unaware of the multiple benefits of apprenticeships, or rather they are so fixated on the goal of a university that any other avenue fades into the background.  

The great news is that students can apply for university at the same time as applying for apprenticeships. One does not rule the other one out. Through UCAS you can apply for five universities, whereas one can apply to as many apprenticeships as they want. Applying to both university and apprenticeships will allow students a wider breadth of options once results come in.  

A common misconception is that apprenticeships are less academic or respected than University degrees. Apprenticeships are highly regarded and recognised throughout. Degrees can now be obtained whilst doing an apprenticeship. If I was an employer with two candidates applying, one with a university degree and one with an apprenticeship degree I would have a hard time deciding as there is no difference between the actual qualifications. All that is different is how they were obtained.  
 

Doing a degree-level apprenticeship means that you would be working 80% of the time and learning at university 20% of the time. You would also be getting a salary for your time, the average degree-level apprentice earns £17,800 annually in their first year. Not only that but you would not be required to pay for a student loan, as your apprentice employer is required to pay your tuition. Meaning getting the degree with no nasty debt attached. The student lifestyle is also accessible doing a degree-level apprenticeship. As an apprentice you will still have access to the student union, university socials and clubs, an NUS student discount card and still get that all-important graduation ceremony.  

So remember, even with UCAS deadlines around the corner, university is not the only route. Dream jobs such as becoming a nurse, teacher, solicitor and even architect are obtainable through an apprenticeship as well. Make sure to take some time out with students and children to research more into apprenticeships as well as universities, as they are an equally worthy alternative.