
Career Path
It can be tough deciding on what qualification, type of courses, degrees, masters, apprenticeships or career is best for you. We want to make it easier for you so you can make better-informed decisions.
You need to think about what excites you, what passions do you have? what would be your ultimate dream job or business! What job/business would you love to get up in the morning for? If you do know what your dream job is you should then start finding out what qualifications would you need to get into that industry.
Now it's okay if you are still unsure what your dream job would be, this is natural. If this is the case then think about what course would you find interesting and fun to do. If you enjoy the course you will most likely find a job that you will enjoy that requires that qualification.
Some jobs you may find don't have specific qualifications needed however, there may be qualifications that are transferable. Below you can search for a course type i.e "Healthcare" to see if it is the right qualification and career path for you.
"University is not for me what should I do?"
This is okay, fine and natural and you shouldn't feel pressured by society, friends and family to undertake a degree and pay for a university just to mention you have a degree at the end of your studies. This era we live in now has so many different options where you can either gain further education, gain experience, start a business or jump straight into work. So Alternative options can be:
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are suitable for those who have a definite idea of the career path they want to take.
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You should be committed to work and study, but would prefer a more practical and work-related approach to learning.
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You will need to be immediately ready to start work with an employer, and be based in the workplace most of the time.
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You will be assessed through a range of assignments, written work, including essays, reports, practical exercises, end tests, and exams.
Internships:
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Work shadowing – This is where you follow and learn from one or more colleagues of a team throughout their day in a working environment.
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Work Experience Placements – This will give you a understanding of working in your chosen profession or area of interest. This is usually done as part of degree courses, however there is also a range of options for school leavers, or you could arrange your own placement with an employer. They can last from a couple of days through to several weeks, or much longer.
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School Leaver Programmes and Holiday Schemes – These are offered by some of the larger firms. These act as training programmes and a way for companies and interns to find out if it is the right role for the company to explore and right company/industry for the intern to work within.
Traineeships - A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. It can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, with most traineeships last normally less than 6 months.
Employment - Their is many companies who are willing to take on staff without degrees. Some companies offer growth and development programmes so you can progress and promote.
Starting a Business - We are living in a world now with endless and limitless opportunities with excellent ways through websites, social media to advertise, market and gain customers. You can gain mentors, funding and training through organisations and charities.
Below are the different types of courses, degrees, apprenticeships etc that you can look to consider:
Accounting - This is a great course to become an accountant, working within the financial sector. and also if you want to have a business, become great at budgeting money management. Make sure you get a qualificatiom/s that is accredited by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) which is the recognised professional body for employed in a range of roles in finance and accounting.
95% of graduates going directly into employment.
Aerospace Engineering - Aerospace engineers are responsible for some of the most incredible things to do with the human race and our planet. Aerospace engineers produce the equipment that makes weather forecasts, mobile phones, television broadcasts, and space flight possible.
66% of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Agriculture and related sciences - Agriculture and related sciences is a vast range of disciplines including animal, land management, food science, economics, horticulture, technology, and environmental conservation.
69.3% of graduates going directly into employment.
Anthropology - Anthropology studies and researches how human beings live in the world. It is most commonly taught in two forms - Social Anthropology and Biological Anthropology.
Archaeology - If you love history but want to get hands-on with your studies, archaeology offers you the chance to uncover hidden remnants of the ancient world. It boasts a unique combination of history and science, of looking at the past to inform the future, and mixing groundbreaking technology.
Architecture - This subject area brings together a wide range of disciplines from both the art and science fields. You will be responsible for designing a variety of things i.e. buildings, sculptures, objects, and much more.
83.9% of graduates go directly into employment.
Art & Design - Studying Art and Design can help to develop your creative skills. Persuing qualifications within Arts & Design with help you within creative industry jobs within arts and media. This will help you to develop your practical and production skills.
Biochemistry - Molecular biology, biophysics, and biochemistry encompass the study of life, and will suit anyone with an interest in living organisms. They are highly specialised subjects, allowing for in-depth study of the science behind all living beings. Students of these subjects tend to be investigative and inquisitive, but also artistic – enjoying patterns and designs.
Business - Business qualifications are great for someone who either wants to start their own business or even being employed in management, operational, director or a CEO type of role. You will learn a variety of skills from accounting, economics, advertising, marketing, understanding how a business operates and customer needs. Studying business can become a very versatile qualification that many employers see valuable.
Beauty & Therapy - Beauty and Therapy is a fast-past environment. Learning Beauty and Therapy can help you get a career path working in places such as a hair salon, nails and eyebrow parlors, and working within industries such as skincare, waxing and massages. You will learn how to be a professional, customer care, skills to perform at a high standard and gain a qualification recognised with beauty and therapy industries.
Chemical Engineering - Chemical engineering has been responsible for a large number of products and processes that are now essential. Chemical Engineers are also some of the most in-demand graduates in the UK. Imagine there is a world without plastic, gas or oil. You will literally be trying to solve these issues within our planet trying to make it more sustainable.
Chemistry - As one of the three main branches of science, its impact is wide-reaching and impressive. Through chemistry, we have made great discoveries, such as penicillin and pasteurisation, and made the modern world possible with inventions including plastic and lithium ion batteries. Chemistry plays a role in almost every action on earth, and in every object we touch. It’s the study of substances, and their composition, structure, and properties.
Chemical scientists are leading research on the world’s most pressing concerns, including challenges around human health, climate change, and energy. They use their scientific, problem-solving, and analytical talents to pioneer new medicine, technologies, and discoveries. They’re consulted in fields as broad as engineering, nuclear power, and space travel – working at the forefront of science is thrilling and challenging in equal measure. Chemical scientists have a higher employment rate than students of other subjects, and they tend to be paid more too – up to 15 per cent higher in some cases! Over 70 per cent of chemistry students will enter a professional or managerial role when they have finished their studies and double the UK average go on to further study.
Childcare - All you need to know about the development and care of younger children and are ideal for those wanting to work in early years settings such as nurseries and preschools, as well as those looking to become a childminder or nanny.
Civil Engineering - Civil engineers are the scientific minds behind the way our modern towns and cities work. Responsible for infrastructure on a large scale, civil engineers are involved in the design and development of everything from the new village hall to nationwide energy supply. You can be in high demand from councils and the government.
96% of students in work or further study within six months of graduating.
Computer Science - Computer science is the study of computation, automation, and information. Computer science spans theoretical disciplines, such as algorithms, theory of computation, and information theory, to practical disciplines including the design and implementation of hardware and software.
Counselling - Counselling is a talking therapy that involves a trained therapist listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with emotional issues.
Creative Arts - This area covers a very wide range of subjects with different specialist courses to choose from in art, design, and performing arts.
77.2% of graduates went directly into employment.
Criminology - Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminals, including the motivations and consequences of crime and its perpetrators, as well as preventative measures.
Studying criminology can be seen as multi-disciplinary, as it contains elements of psychology, biology, statistics, law, and sociology. Criminology deals with both theoretical and practical work, seeking to understand and tackle crime and criminals, as well as the legal and criminal justice system, and its wider social ramifications.
Dentistry - As a dentistry student, you’ll learn how to diagnose, maintain, and improve people’s oral health. You’ll also explore cosmetic dentistry, helping people feel more confident and attractive through aesthetic surgery of their mouth, gums, and teeth. Once qualified, you can expect to be earning upwards of £30,000 as a starting graduate salary, and it’s not unusual for dentists to achieve six-figure sums after some years of practise.
Economics - This is a mix of areas rolled into one. Understanding how money makes the world go round, the influences of change, inflation, law, politics, unemployment, psychology
Education - Most graduates who study Education usually pursue a career in teaching however this subject has many transferable skills that you will learn throughout studying this subject
89.4% of graduates go directly into employment.
Electrical Engineering - Electrical and electronic engineers are going to be in higher demand than ever before, as companies compete to find the most efficient, sustainable, and profitable way of moving away from fossil fuels and ‘going electric’. There soon will be electric cars in this new modern world.
94% of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Engineering & Technology - Engineering & Technology is a broad set of subjects that deal with everything connected to the design, manufacture, and maintenance of infrastructure, devices, tools, and information systems used by society on a daily basis.
76.9% of graduates go directly into employment.
English - English involves reading, thinking, and writing critically and creatively. It is diverse and can lead to a wide range of careers in various sectors and industries.
Film Production & Photography - The creative industry is worth almost £100bn per year and it’s growing twice as fast as the rest of the economy. Born again in the digital age, it’s an exciting and dynamic place to be –forge an exciting career while exercising your passion, creativity, and technical talent. If you love the idea of using technology and art to make your mark on the world, then a career in the creative industry may be right up your street.
Finance - If you’re looking to go into the world of business, being able to manage and make money is going to make you a golden candidate. Beyond just getting a good job, being smart with money is going to help you in your own life too – in saving, budgeting, getting a mortgage, and much more.
95% of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Food Science - Food science is the study of the fundamental science behind food and nutrition – it applies chemical, biological, and physical sciences to solve challenges within the food system. This also involves aspects of sociology and psychology, integrating societal, consumer-based behavioural studies into the process.
Game Design - The gaming industry in 2021 was worth $173 billion globally and is expected to rise to 314 billion in 2027. With metaverse growing there will be lots of job opportunities in an industry growing. There are no specific course entry requirements for this niche degree. While many universities would like to see maths and computing on your list of qualifications, to help with the coding and programming element of a games design course, they’re not essential. Other subjects like physics, IT, media studies, and design technology will be useful.
Geography - As a geography student, you’ll study the world and how humans interact with it. It’s largely a science, but you’ll also gain insight into other subjects including politics and sociology.
Geology - Geology is a subject for people passionate about the planet we share. During your degree, you’ll learn extensively about the world, how it works, and how to preserve it. You’ll leave uni equipped to solve some of the biggest problems that humanity currently faces, such as climate change, managing the diminishing supply of natural resources, and preparing and planning for natural hazards and disasters.
Health and Social Care - You will research the history of health and social welfare provision, critically examine a range of professional role, analyse and bring awareness to global health issues and government policies. In addition, you will debate a range of significant social welfare issues such as disability; equality and social justice; mental health; and the social determinants of health.
Health and Wellbeing - you’ll evaluate the modern health and social care challenges through a lens and explore systemic and community-engaged solutions. It is imperative that health and wellbeing policies and practices, founded on evidence-based research, are developed to grow and support health and wellbeing in ways that are fit for purpose and sustainable. Our course has a strong focus on the application of research and evaluation methods to critique the health and wellbeing practices available for individuals, communities and societies.
Historical Studies - Covering anything from the history of the world to different religions, the writings of different philosophers, and archaeological science techniques this subject area covers a diverse range of disciplines.
64.4% of graduates go directly into employment.
Hospitality, leisure and tourism - Hospitality, leisure and tourism are vast subject areas that will give you the grounding to work in a variety of sectors. From managing your local sports centre or hotel, to planning around-the-world itineraries of cruise ships, a degree in any of these three subjects will give you the edge in this glamorous and popular industry.
Journalism - Journalism is part of our everyday lives. From television and radio, to newspapers and magazines, to websites and social media. News and journalism are the tools in which people learn about current affairs all over the world, and journalists can influence the general public in a way that few other professions can.
94% of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Languages - This covers degrees in individual modern languages (often including history, literature, culture, and politics), translation and interpreting, and linguistics (the science behind language and communication).
64.4% of graduates go directly into employment.
Law - Many law courses can be combined with subject areas such as finance, medical ethics, and international human rights. Studying law you will most likely pursue a career as a Lawyer, Solicitor, Judge, business, and any other legal-related job.
65.8% of graduates go directly into employment.
Marketing - In basic terms marketing is understanding the psychology of what makes people buy what, and when. Marketing is a great subject to learn whether you pursue a career in marketing, advertising, start a business or start a managerial role. Marketing is extremely diverse and has many transferable skills.
96% of graduates go directly into employment.
Material Science & Engineering - Materials scientists and engineers work at the forefront of a broad range of disciplines and industrial sectors, including healthcare, energy, environmental sustainability, sports, automotive, and aerospace. New materials will provide solutions to problems facing mankind in the next century and beyond (e.g. quantum computers, net zero energy).
Mathematical Sciences - Courses in mathematical sciences can lead to a wide range of employment prospects.
Maths graduates are employed in a wide range of different career sectors. The key areas of employment include:
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banking and finance
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business consulting and management
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construction and engineering
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IT and computing
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local and central government
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pharmaceutics
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teaching and research
64.9% of graduates go directly into employment.
Mechanical Engineering - Mechanical engineers build the world around us. From the tiniest nanotechnology, through to cars and buildings, to airplanes and space stations, mechanical engineers are responsible for the design and development of most things.
There are approximately 90 apprenticeships in the engineering sector available in England, with more in development.
Media Studies - From television to cinema, radio to podcasts, social media to blogs and vlogs, and everything in between – media studies plays a big part of our every day. And it’s never been so relevant than in the internet age, where actors, singers, and personalities can make their own celebrity online using their media skills. As technology, creativity, and competition increases, these skills become more in demand all over the world.
Media studies will equip you with the communication and technology skills needed to succeed in the modern workplace, whether in the media industry or not. Whether you choose to pursue a career in film and television, fight for your own fame, or take your skills into business – you’ll be well equipped for what the modern workplace is looking for.
Medicine - This subject area is extremely broad, with many courses providing the professional pathway to careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, and other allied fields.
89.7% of graduates go directly into employment.
Mental Health -
Midwifery - Midwifery is a whole lot more than just supporting women to give birth.It’s the professional care of women – before, during, and after the birth of their child. Midwifery has been an honoured and important profession for thousands of years.Midwifery is a global profession. Childbearing women, newborn infants, and families share similar needs wherever they live and midwives make a vital contribution to their survival, health and well- being across the world. The World Health Organisation has stated that ‘strengthening midwifery education is a key step to improving quality of care and reducing maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity’.
Music - Music offers a variety of specialisms to choose from, including musical performance, composition, and production. There are many genres of music, with lots of opportunities to gain practical experience through large networks.
Nursing - Nurses are lifesavers whose work touches lives at times of basic human need when care and compassion are what matter most. Highly trained medical professionals, their skill set is constantly evolving to reflect the role they play in modern healthcare. Nursing offers intellectually challenging work including the performance of some medical procedures, advancing medical innovation and care to improve the lives of patients, clinical research and education, and developing treatment plans for patients. Nurses act as leaders, carers, and clinicians, increasingly taking on senior positions of responsibility to progress patient care in line with the latest medical innovations and advancements.
99% of graduates go directly into employment.
Optometry - Studying optometry can lead you to an exciting and varied career. You’ll get to put your knowledge into practice with diverse placement opportunities, and will learn about the issues that can affect eyesight. In a modern world filled with computer screens and mobile phone screens, it is increasingly necessary for everyone to have access to specialist eye care and attend regular eye check-ups. As an optometrist you’ll be trained to examine the eye, to detect and diagnose any abnormalities and diseases, and to prescribe glasses or contact lenses.
Philosophy - From the ancient to the contemporary, history’s greatest minds have searched for answers to the big questions in life. Science can tell us how, but it can’t tell us why. Studying philosophy means exploring these challenges in theoretical, practical, logical, and historical contexts. Philosophers are trained big-thinkers, able to challenge commonly accepted ideas with their intellect and open-mindedness.
Physiology, Physiotherapy and Pathology - The human body is complex, and everyone is different and as the list of diseases, illnesses, and ailments grows by the year – not to mention how they evolve and adapt to treatment – we need to stay one step ahead. Keeping us healthy in the face of these challenges requires highly skilled scientists: experts in physiology, physiotherapy, and pathology.
9 out of 10 of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Politics - Politics is the broad, universal, and essential study of how governments, policies, and internal relations work. Politics plays a role in every country in the world, whether it be federal, democratic, communist, or republic. It’s through politics that many important questions are answered, and global challenges are addressed – including human rights, poverty, equality, and welfare.
94% of graduates can find themselves within employment within 6 months.
Psychology - Psychology looks at the ways people think, act, react, and interact. It is the study of human (and animal) behaviour, and the thoughts and emotions that influence behaviour.
72% of graduates go directly into employment.
Publishing - Courses range from being quite theoretical, to others that offer a more vocational focus on particular careers – such as degree courses in journalism and publishing.
80.3% of graduates go directly into employment.
Radiography and Medical Technology - At the cross-section of patient care and pioneering technology. Radiographers use different kinds of radiation to diagnose or treat, ill or injured patients. There are two kinds of radiography: Diagnostic radiography, which is the use of radiation to investigate a patient’s illness or injury, and: Therapeutic radiography, which is the use of various kinds of radiation to treat an illness or injury. Combine a passion for technology with sharp analytical skills and a desire to help others, and you’ll have the ideal applicant for a radiography and medical technology degree. Far from being simply technicians, radiographers can play a huge part in a patient’s journey – in fact, therapeutic radiographers will build up extensive personal relationships with patients, as they work with them daily to administer their required treatment. This is often using x-rays (and other ionising radiation) to treat cancer and tumours.
There are approximately 90 apprenticeships in the engineering sector available in England, with more in development.
Social Studies - There are diverse ranges of subjects included within social studies, as it also includes economics and politics, alongside courses that lead to a professional qualification in social work.
74.3% of graduates go directly into employment.
Social Work - Social work is a demanding, crucial, and rewarding profession. Behind every community is a dedicated social worker who supports families in need of assistance, helping with everything from mental health to emotional challenges, to financial aid.
No two days are the same in the life of a social worker, and this goes for your studies too. You’ll combine elements of sociology, psychology, law, care, and many other skills, to equip you to handle a career where you have to react quickly but compassionately. If you love working with people and want to make a real difference, social work could be perfect for you.
Software & Engineering - This subject you will be using your technical and creative skills to produce things that make our life easier. For example; Mobile phones, computers, home appliances, public transportation, and the emergency services all rely on intelligent software to make the most of their technology. As a software engineer, you’ll be the one designing it. Applying your technical skills to the invention and innovation of software, along with the development, maintenance, and management of it, you’ll be able to use your love for technology to make a difference in the world. And you’ll make good money while doing it.
There are approximately 90 apprenticeships in the engineering sector available in England, with more in development.
Sport - There is a wide range of courses in the sports sector, from sports science to performance and sports psychology. This subject area offers access to a huge choice of job roles, from hands-on fitness to administration and management.
Teaching - Inspire, educate, and inform the next generation of minds. There are few jobs more important than teaching. Sharing your knowledge and talents with the next generation, in a way that allows them to learn and enjoy themselves, is a priceless skill that’s in demand all over the world. It’s a big job. It’s not just passing on what you’ve learnt to students. You’ll be a highly skilled communicator and carer, able to teach in many styles and techniques depending on the class you’re looking after. It calls for you to be at the top of your game at all times, offering your students the best teaching, whether it’s a Monday morning or Friday afternoon. With thousands of teachers training every year, it’s also a competitive job market, but one that will likely see you employed for life.
90% of graduates go directly into employment.
Veterinary Science - These courses take between five to six years to complete and provide the pathway to become professionally qualified as a veterinary surgeon.
92.8% of graduates go directly into employment.
There are many more subjects out there with more being created however above is an insight to give you ideas of what type of career could be for you.