If you’re about to leave school or college you are probably considering either studying at university or getting a job. It’s a tough decision, but why should you have to choose between the two? Both paths will build important skills for your future, so why not combine them to maximise your potential.
Studying online will enable you to earn while you learn - gaining the best of both worlds and helping you to better manage the cost of university fees. Distance learning is becoming an increasingly popular option for school and college leavers as students seek more affordable ways to study. Working while you study part-time will not only help pay the bills, but will also develop your self-confidence and independence.
Last month, a report published by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), warned that the "default" traditional university route taken by most teenagers is not enough to provide all the degree-level skills required by major industries. The business group said; “The UK's young people must be encouraged to take more apprenticeships, sandwich degree courses and part-time degrees to tackle the shortage of suitably qualified workers”.
University of Essex Online courses allow students to study for a degree on a part-time basis online. You can tailor our programmes to suit your lifestyle and achieve a degree from a top-ranked university whilst you work. Courses include Bachelor’s degrees in areas such as business, management, marketing, criminology and criminal justice. Studying is carried out entirely online and there are no examinations. You will have access to all the support and facilities you would expect to receive on campus and you won’t have to travel to attend classes.
Our students find that gaining work experience whilst studying gives them a unique set of skills and improves their employability. "Without this course I don’t think I would have been able to progress as fast I have. It has given me the confidence I need in my role." Octavius Max-Lino (University of Essex Online Graduate 2013).
Employers recognise the commitment and motivation it takes to complete a part-time degree and value the mix of academic and professional skills. Working in any industry will develop key attributes such as teamwork, communication and organisation, and it will give you real life examples to use in job applications and interviews. Gaining a degree-level qualification will show your academic ability, prepare you for your chosen career and help open doors to new industries.
Our courses start throughout the year so, unlike a traditional degree course, you don’t have to wait until September to begin your studies. Plus, if you are a UK or EU citizen and live in England, you may be eligible for a government-backed student loan to pay your course fees. Contact our Admissions Advisers today on 0800 0527 526 to find out more or visit www.online.essex.ac.uk
