Seven reasons why studying at degree level is a great thing

Every year, hundreds of students decide to study a Higher Education (HE) course, whether that’s a HNC, HND, Higher Level Apprenticeship or a degree.

Some students find choosing to study a HE course an exciting point in their life, but for others, it can be a daunting experience and can lead to them questioning why studying a HE course is valuable. Here’s seven reasons why studying a university-level qualification will benefit you.

1. Follow your passion
   Studying a subject you’re interested with tutors who have real industry experience will give you a greater feeling of fulfilment. You’ll be mentally stimulated and will enjoy learning. Your hard work should be rewarded with a great qualification. For example, in 2020/21, 71% of our students achieved either a First, Upper Second, Distinction or a Merit*.
2. Broaden your horizons
   Enrolling for a HE course will allow you to encounter new experiences, meet new people, develop your friendship circle and build your confidence. You’ll have access to our state-of-the-art equipment and facilities and a guest speakers and employers from your chosen industry will deliver sessions to further enhance your knowledge.
3. It’s never too late
   You’re never too old to learn something new, so don’t let your age hold you back. In fact, in 2020/21, 31% of our students were aged 21 or over.*
4. Experience student life
   Become a member of our HE community and you’ll automatically join our Students’ Union. You decide how much participation you have. By getting involved, you will be making decisions that affect students’ lives, improving your employability skills and participating in a range of clubs and societies.
5. Develop the skills employers are looking for
   Not only will you develop subject specific knowledge, you’ll also gain lots of transferrable skills that all employers look for when recruiting new staff. You’ll be collaborating with other students on projects, so you’ll develop your communication, team working, problem solving, organisation and leadership skills.
6. Improve your career prospects
   Having a higher-level qualification can lead to a wider variety of career options to choose from, and you are likely to progress much faster up the career ladder too.
7. Increase your earning potential
   Having a degree opens the door to more career opportunities and your earning potential. Statistics released by the Institute of Student Employers in November 2021, show graduates earned a median salary of £30,500 in 2021.**

* [Barnsley College] Higher Education Annual Monitoring Report 2020/21
** Institute of Student Employers Student Recruitment Report 2021

We understand choosing to study a HE course can be hard, but we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our friendly Information Unit can provide impartial advice on what course is most suited to you. We offer a wide range of HE courses in most industries and many courses can be studied around your existing commitments. Visit the HE department page or download a course guide and start your journey to studying a university-level course.