Published 5 October 2023
Degrees and academic study
There are lots of types of academic courses that you can take, we'll give you some examples so you can choose the right one for you.
University and College
Going to university or college is like a big adventure! It's a special place where people go to learn after finishing school.
At university, you can study exciting things like engineering, science, and so much more. It's like picking your favourite subject and becoming super-duper experts in it!
Some people become engineers, design cars and planes, or even space explorers after going to university!
Bachelors (or graduate) degree
A Bachelors or Graduate degree is the first type of course you can take. It lasts 3-4 years and you'll choose at least one subject to focus on, and sometimes more.
At the end you'll take exams and do coursework. There may be work placements, but expect to be studying most of the time.
Masters degree or postgraduate diploma
If you stay in university you can go to take a Masters degree, Post-Graduate Diploma or even a Doctorate. These can last between 2 and 4 years (depending on the course) and will make you an expert in that subject.
You'll study, take exams, and do coursework. There may be work placements, but expect to be studying most of the time.
Vocational, Technical and professional qualifications
Vocational and technical qualifications focus on more hands-on topics that other degrees. So there are lots of these that are about engineering, manufacturing and construction.
Expect to spend a lot of your time in work placements, but there will be some study too.
Diploma or Degree Apprenticeships
You can also have a degree that you earn whilst you are an apprentice. It will take a bit longer because you'll work and study too, but it can help you to earn money whilst you learn and get lots of experience at the same time.
Find out more about apprenticeships in our case study
Find out moreWork placements
When you study you will get the chance to take work placements to try out the skills you have been learning. Meet Yasmin, she'll tell you more about her work placement and how it helped her decide on what she wanted to do in the future.
Read more about Yasmin's story at Bristol University