Why university?

Find out if university is the right choice for you and what to consider before making your decision.

Students smiling and enjoying a lecture

Why go to university?

Going to university can give you the skills and experience you need to take your future career in any direction you choose. 

University might not be the right path for everyone, but there are many different routes into studying a degree. Going to university gives you the chance to study a subject you love and experience student life to the full.

Explore a subject you’re passionate about

You don’t have to go to university with a specific career path in mind but having a degree may enhance your employment prospects and increase your earning potential.

You'll be able to focus in depth on a subject area that you are passionate about. Or, if you’re passionate about multiple subjects, explore joint degrees and study in two or more areas. Find out about different undergraduate courses at Sussex.

You’re encouraged to study independently, and are given the freedom to explore your subject area using a variety of different study tools. This builds your skill set and may make you more attractive to potential employers. 

You'll learn by attending:

  • lectures
  • seminars
  • online lectures and seminars
  • laboratory or workshop sessions.

Find out more about studying an undergraduate degree at Sussex.

Degree classifications

When looking at university, it’s important to understand the different types of degrees that are available. Typically, undergraduate degrees will be either a:

  • BSc (Bachelor of Science)
  • BA (Bachelor of Arts).

But there are other classifications that can be specific to a field of study, for example an LLB is a specific degree classification for Law and a BEng is a specific degree classification for Engineering.

Some subjects areas can be classified as a BA and a BSc (such as Geography, Economics and Psychology). This can influence the course content and sometimes associated accreditations. Make sure you understand the difference and how course content differs between each one. Looking at the modules listed for each degree can help you differentiate between a BA and BSc in the same subject.

Vocational degrees

If you have a specific career path in mind then you might need to study a degree in order to pursue it. Careers in nursing, engineering, teaching and dentistry may require you to have at least an undergraduate degree. Be sure to do your research so that you understand the steps required to reach your future job.

Higher apprenticeships

There is more than one way to achieve an undergraduate degree and higher apprenticeships offer an alternate route to attending university. Higher apprenticeships allow students to work and attend university simultaneously. They avoid the cost of attending university and students can earn while studying. Find out more about higher apprenticeships on the UCAS website.

Students in a lab at the University of Sussex

Build your career

Some degrees also give students the opportunity to go on work placements or study abroad, so you can forge links with potential employers while you study, or boost your language skills.

The way you study at university, and the learning tools available to you, also mean you'll develop the key skills most employers look for, such as: 

  • communication  
  • problem solving
  • team work
  • critical thinking.

Most universities have a careers service, who can:

  • put you in touch with employers
  • help you organise part-time work, placements or work experience
  • answer any questions you have about starting your career. 

At Sussex, we have extra guidance about what to do with your degree. 

Two students take part in a mock interview session at the University of Sussex

Experience student life 

Most universities offer social activities, clubs and societies so you can broaden your horizons and make new friends. 

You’ll get the opportunity to join:

  • sports clubs
  • societies
  • the Students' Union
  • organised activities (including traveling abroad)
  • volunteer programs.  

You'll meet new people, experience different cultures, and develop your independence.

Find out about student life at Sussex.

Check details of scholarships mentioned in this video, as some might have changed, or email us at scholarships@sussex.ac.uk.

Choose Sussex

Find out everything that makes Sussex a great place to study, work and call your home.

From our beautiful location to our wide-ranging courses, there's plenty of reasons to study at Sussex.

Find out more.

Contact us

For general queries, email study@sussex.ac.uk.

You can also register for updates about Sussex.

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