Do I need to go to uni

Do I need to go to uni Do I need to go to uni?Posted September 11, 2013, by Career FAQs team My parents think I need to go to uni to get a job but Im not so sure. What do you think, does everyone need a degree these days? Jake, 17 Thats a good question and my answer really depends on knowing what type of job you want in future. If youre aiming to be a lawyer, doctor, psychologist, physiotherapist, architect, accountant or teacher, you will definitely need to complete a university degree. These days theres a lot mora pressure and expectation to go to university when you finish high school. But having a uni degree wont guarantee you success. Other factors, such as your drive and ambition, will play an even more important role. More and more people are going to uni than ever before (140,000 in 1985 compared to 932,000 in 2011), and the numbers will continue to grow but that doesnt mean that you should study just because everyone else is But you need to be aware that your competitors in the job market will have increasing levels of education. Research does show that people with degrees will generally earn more throughout their careers. You need to do your research and be realistic about the type of jobs that you will be able to apply for. Look at the requirements for the kinds of jobs youd be interested in to see if they are asking for a specific degree. Undertaking further training can open up doors that would otherwise be closed, but you dont need to limit yourself to only university degrees consider all available options, including TAFE and other training institutions. You might find it better to start with a certificate or diploma and use it as a pathway into further study. If you dont want to study on a university campus you could also look at studying by distance education. This will enable you to study in your own time and give you more flexibility to work. Another option to consider is completing an apprenticeship or traineeship, which will give you the opportunity to combine training with practical hands-on experience. Your decision will come down to what type of occupation you want, but remember that even if you dont go to uni straight after school, you can always go back later down the track. Good luck Jo Messer is a Career Development Specialist who has many years of experience in supporting and guiding students and graduates of some of Australias fruchtwein respected universities, as well as mature-aged clients, across all facets of their career. She is a Professional Member of CDAA and an active member of NAGCAS. Whether you have a specific question about how to achieve your career goal or something more general, Jo is available to provide you with up-to-date advice. ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources Officerrichtungeral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searchesfin d me work experiencethings to know before uniuni tips and trickscareer advisor onlineunsw early entry CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCareer FAQs teamRelated ArticlesBrowse moreCareer changeJob hunting tipsAm I In The Wrong Job?Sometimes its easier to identify something we dont like rather than something we do, and our careers are no exception.EMPLOYER RESOURCESGenerations in the workforceWorkplace Warfare Baby Boomers, Gen X And Gen YLately, everyone is talkin bout your generation. With an age gap of nearly 50 years between the oldest and youngest employees in some organisations, there is a broad range of perspectives, needs and attitudes floating around the office.BossBusinessHow to Be Your Own Boss - The Ultimate Guide To Starting Your Own BusinessGot a big i dea and want to turn it into a reality? Are you a natural leader and self-starter? Do you hate the idea of working below someone else? Then youre just the type of person who needs to be their own boss