UCAS - Higher education explained

What is higher education?

Higher education offers a diverse range of courses and qualifications, such as first degrees, higher national diplomas and foundation degrees. Many courses take place in universities, but plenty are also taught at higher education colleges, specialist art institutions and agricultural colleges. You can choose to study different courses depending on your preferences: there are thousands of options available that can complement your skills and interests. More about courses available

Why choose higher education?

Many higher education courses offer a vocational programme that is directly related to particular work areas, such as accountancy, sports science and teaching.
A higher education qualification is essential for some careers like medicine, chartered engineering and architecture.
A degree or HND can improve your chances of getting a fulfilling job and your financial potential.
Universities and colleges bring together students from a variety of backgrounds. This interaction can strengthen your understanding of different cultures and beliefs.
Higher education develops important transferable skills, such as numeracy, communication and information technology, which can give you an edge in the fast-changing world of employment.
If the course includes seminars, you can use this time to challenge each others' views in a neutral and stimulating environment.
You may be at a stage in life when you can study a subject for the sake of personal satisfaction.

Choosing what you want from higher education takes research and planning, from starting to think about what you want to study, to planning what to take with you. Read through the six steps to applying.

Higher education courses have different methods of teaching, like lectures, seminars and practical work. More about teaching methods.

Some universities have formed groups through which they share ideas and resources regarding issues and procedures in the higher education sector. More about university groups.