University Education vs Apprenticeship
When it comes to further education, the two main routes a person can look to are a university degree or an apprenticeship. Both provide a qualification that is valued by employers, but which is the better option for you? Each option will provide desirable experience and qualifications, but understanding the differences between them will help you to decide which route to take.
While both options will provide in-depth learning and training that lead to verifiable qualifications, they are not necessarily easy to compare, and it will depend greatly on the individual and where they hope to be in the future. University focuses primarily on the acquisition of knowledge, while an apprenticeship provides practical, work-based training. This means that employers may evaluate the skills and qualifications gained from each a little differently. So, let's take a quick look at some of the key areas where each option differs in order for you to make an informed decision.
Training Structure
A university course offers a highly structured program of learning. Through this, you will build your academic knowledge over several years, the first year is usually foundational, and the following years will provide the opportunity to build and extend your understanding of your chosen subject through researching and writing dissertations.
An apprenticeship, however, is centred around the roles and responsibilities within the job or trade the individual is working in. The progression of the apprentice is determined by the employer; as the individual progresses in their field, the key competencies required for working independently are signed off by their employer until all requirements are met for certification.
Learning Experience
Student life within university is very different in terms of routine and responsibilities from entering the workforce as an apprentice. Students will be expected to attend lectures, seminars or tutorials alongside self-directed learning within their chosen subject. Universities also offer vibrant cultural and social life to be enjoyed outside of a student's academic studies.
An apprentice will gain experience in their trade by undertaking full-time work within the business times of their employer, learning on the job. There may be additional group studies or courses they can undergo outside of working hours, and some poeple further their formal qualifications by taking day-release studies in their field, but primarily an apprentice remains with their employer.
Financing
Possibly the most significant difference between the two is that an apprentice will earn a salary while training, but a student pays tuition fees to their university. In the UK, students' fees are covered by a loan that is paid directly to the university and paid back incrementally once the individual's income exceeds a certain threshold.
An apprentice is paid a salary that meets the minimum wage requirements set out by the Government for apprenticeships. The rate of pay will vary depending on the apprentice's age. Salaries for apprentices are lower than a full-time salary to reflect the cost to the employer of training.
Job Opportunities
Typically, apprenticeships offer a higher rate of post-training employment; this is understandable as the employer has invested in ensuring the apprentice is suitably trained to do the job. Many apprentices simply transfer to full-time employees within the company they trained with, now being able to work independently of the boss and earn a higher wage for themselves.
Graduates also have good employment prospects, as employers value their completion of an academic degree. Some fields, such as nursing and medicine, see graduates enter employment much sooner than others. Graduates of other subjects may find it takes longer to enter employment in their field of choice.
Ultimately, whether an apprenticeship or university degree is a better option will depend greatly on the individual and the field they are hoping to work in. Many career paths, such as teaching or nursing, will require an academic degree, while more practical trades, such as carpentry and plumbing, are better learnt through an apprenticeship program.