Is a degree worth the money?

The rate of students going to university has massively increased throughout the first quarter of the 21st century. In 2006, around 24.7% of state school students went to university – but this peaked at 38.2% in 2021before settling to 36.4% in 2024 (https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-7857/). By 2023 just under half of English people aged 25 had gone to university at some point. Clearly with a market becoming saturated with students, the question becomes is it still worth it?

For some professions university is the price of admission. Doctors, Nurses and Scientists will have to undergo a full course in order to enter the profession. But what about for “non-professional degrees”? According to recent government statistics graduates can expect to earn a third more than non-graduates, and expect far faster and higher pay rises through their initial working lives (https://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/latest/news/new-analysis-shows-students-who-choose).

Earnings vary degree to degree. Students studying any of the sciences can expect to earn more than those studying the sciences after completing their first degree.

(Source – https://luminate.prospects.ac.uk/how-graduate-salaries-vary-by-degree-subject)

For those studying create courses such as the arts, earnings were similar to their non-graduate counterparts and did not see the same rate of increase in their pay as their graduate peers. Importantly, graduates had significantly higher rates of employment than non-graduates – and pay and rate of employment was notably increased for postgraduates (https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/graduate-labour-markets/2024).

So overall many would expect this to be sufficient for an enthusiastic and universal “yes!” on should a student go to university. However, this author wishes to note a few crucial details. When I was at school attending university was heavily encouraged – and even expected. Those not attending university were framed as “less able” than their peers. In reality, it ultimately depends on what a students intended career path. For those interested in pursuing a trade not only is university typically unnecessary, but they can also expect to bypass university and still earn significant sums. A skilled plumber or electrician can earn in the £40,000s (https://www.cavendishprofessionals.com/are-construction-jobs-well-paid/).

University is an incredible opportunity, but the world of work and trades can also yield significant results. So, the real answer is if you want to go to university then you absolutely should! It is an incredibly opportunity to study your passion and set up your career. For those whose interests lie elsewhere – then do not go. There are plenty of opportunities and professions that can be satisfying and rewarding without a relevant degree. In reality, so long as you achieve your full potential – you will go far. For those seeking help in achieving this we here at Cardiff & Vale Tutoring can provide the tutoring and training necessary for you to achieve your dreams.

This Blog was Written By Dr Daniel Chesse

Do take a look at earlier blogs:

The Question of Cardiff University Cuts – Cardiff Vale Tutors

Preparing for University – Cardiff Vale Tutors

Beat the University Application Horrors At Halloween And Apply Early – Cardiff Vale Tutors