University can be an excellent way to develop specialist knowledge, gain qualifications, build confidence, and work towards a career goal. For many learners, university opens doors to professions that require higher-level qualifications and can lead to increased career opportunities and progression.
However, university is just one of many progression routes. The best next step is the one that fits your goals, interests, circumstances, and ambitions.
Why Go to University?
Studying at university can help you:
- Gain a recognised qualification
- Develop specialist knowledge
- Improve your career prospects
- Increase confidence and independence
- Meet new people and build networks
- Develop transferable skills valued by employers
- Progress into a professional career
Many careers in areas such as nursing, teaching, social work, psychology, law, and research may require higher education qualifications.
University and Social Justice
At Fircroft College, we believe that higher education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or previous experiences.
Many of our learners are:
- Adult learners
- Career changers
- Parents and carers
- First-generation university students
- Returners to education
- Learners who may not have followed a traditional educational pathway
University is not just for school leavers. Every year, thousands of adults progress into higher education later in life and bring valuable life experience, resilience, and determination to their studies.
University and Career Progression
A degree can help you access careers in areas such as:
Health and Social Care
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Occupational Therapy
- Social Work
- Public Health
Education
- Teaching
- Education Studies
- Youth Work
Humanities and Social Sciences
- History
- Politics
- Sociology
- Criminology
Business and Management
- Human Resources
- Project Management
- Marketing
- Business Administration
Technology and Digital Careers
- Cyber Security
- Computing
- Software Development
- Data Analysis
Many learners at Fircroft use progression routes such as Access to Higher Education to prepare for university study.
Skills You Need for University
You do not need to be perfect before you apply. University is designed to help you learn and develop.
Some useful skills include:
- Time management
- Communication
- Research skills
- Motivation
- Organisation
- Independent study
- Digital skills
- Critical thinking
Many of these skills can be developed through your course at Fircroft, volunteering, work experience, and everyday life.
What Is UCAS?
UCAS is the main system used to apply for university courses in the UK.
Through UCAS you can:
- Search for courses
- Apply to multiple universities
- Track your application
- Receive and respond to offers
Most learners can apply for up to five university courses through UCAS.
Writing a Personal Statement
Many university applications require you to explain why you want to study a particular subject.
A strong personal statement usually includes:
- Why you’re interested in the subject
- Relevant work, volunteering, or life experience
- Skills you’ve developed
- Academic achievements
- Career aspirations
Think about your experiences and what has motivated you to apply.
Financial Support
Many learners worry about the cost of university.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for:
- Tuition fee loans
- Maintenance loans
- Grants and bursaries
- Scholarships
- Additional support for disabilities or caring responsibilities
Universities often have student support teams that can provide guidance about available funding and financial support.
Studying as an Adult Learner
Being an adult learner can be a significant advantage at university.
Adult learners often bring:
- Life experience
- Professional experience
- Maturity
- Motivation
- Resilience
- Real-world understanding
Many universities actively welcome mature students and recognise the value they bring to their courses.
Universities in the West Midlands
There are many excellent universities across the region, including:
- University of Birmingham
- Aston University
- Birmingham City University
- University College Birmingham
- Coventry University
- University of Wolverhampton
- Newman University
If you’re unsure which university might be right for you, support is available to help you explore your options.
University Open Days
Attending an Open Day is one of the best ways to explore your options.
An Open Day allows you to:
- Visit the campus
- Meet lecturers
- Speak with current students
- Learn about support services
- Explore accommodation options
- Ask questions about courses
You do not need to know exactly what you want to do before attending an Open Day.
Is University the Only Option?
No.
Depending on your goals, you may also wish to consider:
- Apprenticeships
- Higher Apprenticeships
- Degree Apprenticeships
- Employment
- Volunteering
- Professional qualifications
- Further Education
The right pathway is different for everyone.
Useful University Resources
UCAS
Explore university courses and begin your application.
Discover Uni
Compare courses using student outcomes, satisfaction data, and employment information.
Whatuni
Read reviews from students and compare universities and courses.
Student Finance England
Information about tuition fees, loans, and financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old to go to university?
- No. There is no upper age limit for attending university. Many students begin degrees in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.
What if I don’t have traditional qualifications?
- Many adult learners progress to university through alternative routes such as Access to Higher Education courses.
Can I study part-time?
- Many universities offer flexible and part-time study options.
Can I work while studying?
- Many students combine university with part-time work, although it is important to balance employment with your studies.
What support is available if I have a disability or additional need?
- Universities offer a range of support services and reasonable adjustments to help students access learning and succeed in their studies.
I’m not sure what course to choose. What should I do?
Start by thinking about:
- Subjects you enjoy
- Careers that interest you
- Your existing skills and strengths
- Areas you would like to learn more about
You can also seek advice before making a decision.
Further Support
If you’re considering university and would like support with:
- Exploring university options
- Choosing a course
- UCAS applications
- Personal statements
- Student finance
- Progression planning
contact:
Email: robyn.dawes@fircroft.ac.uk
Phone: 07984 444750
