Alternatives to university

Deciding what to do after finishing school or college can feel daunting, especially when a degree is often seen as the default route. But university isn't the only option - and it might not be the right choice for everyone

Whether you're looking to start earning straight away, build practical skills, or follow a different passion, there are plenty of alternative paths that can lead to a rewarding and successful career.

Level 2 to Level 5 apprenticeships

If you want to enter the workforce while continuing to learn, apprenticeships offer a practical alternative to full time academic study. They combine paid, hands-on work experience with part time study towards a recognised qualification.

To learn more about national standards and available qualifications, see our guide to qualifications.

According to the Luminate Early Careers Survey 2025, interest in apprenticeships is rising, with 14% of school pupils and a quarter of college students planning to follow this route.

Intermediate (Level 2), advanced (Level 3) and higher (Level 4 and 5) apprenticeships are ideal if you're finishing school or college and want to build skills on the job.

Sectors in high demand at these levels include:

Apprentices earn a salary from day one, starting at the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for apprentices - 拢7.55 per hour as of April 2025 - increasing to 拢12.21 in later years.

Applications can be competitive and often open early, so it's important to be proactive. You can apply for apprenticeships through GOV.UK - Find an apprenticeship.

For more guidance, see should I go to university or do an apprenticeship?

Entry-level jobs

Starting with an entry-level job is a great way to earn money, gain real-world experience, and develop transferable skills while exploring long-term career paths. These roles don't usually require previous experience and often include on-the-job training.

Common entry-level positions include:

Pay often begins at NMW - 拢7.55 for 16 to 17-year-olds and 拢10 for those aged 18 to 20 - but there's scope to progress into more senior, better-paid roles over time.

If you're not sure what role would suit you, take our Job Match quiz or browse our job profiles to explore your options.

Learn how to apply for jobs.

Degree apprenticeships

If you want to combine work with higher education, degree apprenticeships offer an ideal blend of employment and study. You'll work for an employer while studying towards a qualification such as a Bachelors or Masters degree - without the need for tuition fees or student loans.

These programmes are developed in partnership between universities and employers, typically lasting three to five years. You'll gain valuable work experience, earn a salary, and study towards a recognised degree at the same time.

According to the Early Careers Survey 2025, 62% of apprentices expect their programme to result in a degree or higher-level qualification.

Industries offering degree apprenticeships include:

Typically, you agree to work for the employer throughout your studies and remain employed for some time after you graduate. Many apprenticeship employers offer permanent positions after completing their programme.

Search for an apprenticeship.

College courses

If you want to continue studying in a more hands-on or vocational setting, college courses are a flexible and accessible alternative. Over 1.6 million students in England attend college each year, taking courses that range from entry-level to university-equivalent qualifications.

Common course types include:

A-levels聽- Level 3 in academic subjects, ideal if you may still consider university later
BTECs - career-focused Level 3 qualifications combining practical work and theory
Foundation degrees - Level 5 qualifications equivalent to two-thirds of a degree
Functional skills - entry-level, Level 1 and 2 courses in maths, English, and ICT
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) - employer-designed courses, offering skills needed for sectors like digital, construction, and health
Higher National Certificates (HNCs) - Level 4 vocational qualifications with a focus on specific careers
Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) - Level 5 technical courses for sectors like health, construction, and digital
T Level courses - two-year Level 3 courses blending classroom study with industry placements.

Popular subject areas for college courses include:

Students under 19 years old can access many courses for free. Discover how to apply for college in the UK.

Learn more about further education.

Gap years

A gap year can be a great chance to take a step back, gain some real-world experience, and explore different career options before jumping into university. It's especially helpful if you're unsure about higher education or want to boost your future job or study prospects.

Popular gap year activities include:

internships or summer jobs
learning a new language or teaching English abroad
travelling or working overseas
volunteering in the UK or abroad
working at a summer camp in the USA.

The key is to go into your gap year with a plan and some clear goals. When you use the time wisely, it can be a truly rewarding and eye-opening experience.

Discover how to plan your gap year.

In the UK, 60% of gap year students said a gap year helped them choose a subject to study, while 80% thought that their gap year added to their employability.聽Employers often value gap years, especially when they demonstrate initiative, maturity, and real-world experience.

Take the time to explore whether a gap year is right for you.

Starting a business

If you have a business idea and the drive to create something of your own, entrepreneurship could be a rewarding path. In today's uncertain job market, it's an increasingly popular choice - according to AXA's Startup Angel Report 2024, 60% of Gen Z say they aim to become their own boss by the age of 30, with many already running small businesses or side hustles.

The benefits of starting your own business include:

flexible working hours
independence and creative control
potential for high earnings over time.

The challenges of self-employment include managing finances, handling legal and tax obligations, and coping with uncertainty, but plenty of support is available through government start-up schemes, business hubs, and mentoring programmes.

Read our step-by-step guide on how to start a business.

Work in the armed forces

A career in the armed forces offers structure, personal development, and professional training - all without student debt.

You can apply to join the British Army, Royal Navy, or RAF from the age of 16. In fact, more new soldiers join the Army at 16 than at any other age, with under-18s making up around 25% of all new recruits.

There are over 100 different career paths available - many of which are not frontline roles - in fields like:

aviation and air operations
cyber and IT
engineering
healthcare and medical support
intelligence and security
logistics and supply.

Search for graduate jobs in the army.

Key benefits include:

job security and career progression
paid training and professional qualifications
subsidised accommodation and healthcare
travel opportunities.

Whether you choose to serve full time or as a reservist, the armed forces can provide a long-term, rewarding career with the chance to specialise and take on leadership roles over time.

Life in the military can be physically and emotionally demanding, so it's important to consider whether it suits your lifestyle and goals. Find out more on the official Army, RAF, or Royal Navy websites.

Skills bootcamps

These new, free, and flexible training programmes have been introduced by the government to help people quickly gain the skills employers need. Aimed at adults aged 19 and over, they are designed by employers to develop job-ready skills for in-demand sectors.

Bootcamps typically last 2 to 14 weeks and are often part time or delivered online, making them accessible alongside other commitments.

You can take a bootcamp in subjects such as:

cybersecurity
data analysis
digital marketing
green construction (such as solar panel installation)
logistics and HGV driving
software development and coding.

Availability is region-specific, so check the National Careers Service for options near you.

Skills bootcamps are a great option if you want to upskill quickly, enter the workforce, or change careers. Many offer industry-recognised qualifications at Levels 3 to 5, and you're guaranteed a job interview or support with progressing into a new role after completion.

For more details on qualifications and courses, explore our guide to skills bootcamps.

Freelancing

Also known as 'gig work,' freelancing allows you to offer your skills directly to clients, typically on a project or contract basis. You don't need a degree to get started - just practical abilities, a strong portfolio, and the motivation to promote yourself.

Freelancing, especially in creative fields, takes time to build skills and a reputation. It's not something you can jump into overnight. While it offers flexibility and independence, it takes patience and experience to learn how to work effectively with clients.

Popular freelance roles include:

Freelancing is especially popular among younger professionals - in 2024, 52% of Gen Z were engaged in some form of freelance work according to The Upwork Research Institute. Many also create user-generated content (UGC), such as videos, blogs, or photos for brand marketing.

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and social media are useful for finding clients. Many freelancers begin part time while studying or employed elsewhere, gradually building a stable income, as freelance income can be inconsistent at first.

Discover our guide to freelancing.

Public services roles

Roles in the police, fire and rescue, ambulance, and Civil Service offer hands-on experience, structured progression, and often don't require a university degree - around 66% of new police officers now join through non-degree pathways, according to the Home Office.

These roles are vital to society's safety and daily operations and are typically government-run.

One popular route is the Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP), a two-year scheme combining classroom learning with on-the-job training, resulting in qualification as a police officer. Over time, officers can specialise in areas such as:

cybercrime
detective work
firearms.

聽Explore alternative routes to join the police.

聽To become a firefighter, you typically need GCSEs in English and maths (grades 9 to 4). The application process includes:

aptitude tests
assessment centres
fitness and medical checks
interviews.

Career progression may lead to roles like crew or station manager, or specialisations in fire safety education, hazardous materials, or technical rescue.

Becoming a paramedic requires advanced medical training, but you can start as an ambulance care assistant and later apply for paramedic programmes, depending on ambulance service trust 谤别辩耻颈谤别尘别苍迟蝉.听

A career in the Civil Service lets you contribute to government operations and public services. Starting as an administrative assistant (minimum 2 GCSEs, grades 9-4), you can progress into roles in policy, operations, or digital services. Learn more at Civil Service Careers.

If you're unsure about a public service career, volunteering or roles like emergency call handler can offer valuable experience.

Benefits of choosing public service include:

comprehensive training
job security
pension schemes and paid leave
structured career progression.

For more guidance, see how to choose a career.

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