Types of Degrees: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to higher education in the UK, the choices are vast and varied. With over 50,000 courses available across more than 300 universities and colleges, the options can be overwhelming – and that’s just through UCAS. So, how do you choose the right type of degree for you? Here’s an updated guide to the different types of degrees available, offering insight into what each entails.

Foundation Degrees

A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification that equips students with practical and vocational skills relevant to the workplace. These degrees are designed to be accessible to individuals who may not have the typical entry qualifications, such as A Levels. Upon completing a Foundation Degree, many students choose to 'top up' their qualification to a full Honours Degree by entering the second year of a degree programme.

Foundation Degrees are ideal for those looking for a career-focused qualification and may also lead to professional qualifications in certain fields. They offer a great pathway to further study or a direct route into employment, depending on your goals.

Single Honours Degrees

A Single Honours Degree remains the traditional and most recognised type of degree. For many students, it’s the first choice, as it focuses entirely on one subject area, providing in-depth knowledge and skills. Upon graduation, a Single Honours Degree is widely respected by employers.

In many industries, the specific subject of the degree may not matter as much to employers, who will often provide on-the-job training. What is more important is the ability to research, analyse information, write reports, and communicate effectively. For those seeking a deep expertise in one field, a Single Honours Degree remains an excellent choice.

Joint Honours Degrees

A Joint Honours Degree allows students to study two different subjects simultaneously. These degrees are offered in a variety of combinations, and students typically split their time equally between the two disciplines throughout their course.

More flexible than a Single Honours Degree, Joint Honours Degrees provide a broader skill set, which can be appealing to a wider range of employers. For example, you might choose to combine English Literature with History or Mathematics with Computer Science. Some universities even allow students to take a third “elective” subject in their first year, providing a further opportunity to broaden their knowledge. However, while the wider breadth of knowledge is an advantage, students should be mindful that some combinations may require more careful planning and balancing of their workload.

Combined Degrees

Combined Degrees typically involve a major and a minor subject, where the major subject forms the larger part of the course – usually about two-thirds of the content – and the minor subject makes up the remaining third. This differs slightly from Joint Honours Degrees, as Combined Degrees allow students to focus primarily on one subject, with the minor offering an opportunity to explore another subject of interest.

For students who don’t wish to specialise entirely in one subject but want to maintain an element of choice, Combined Degrees can offer a more balanced approach. This type of degree is particularly useful for those who want to combine their passion for one subject with an interest in another without being overly specialised.

Interdisciplinary Degrees

Interdisciplinary, or Cross-disciplinary Degrees, offer a flexible approach to higher education, allowing students to study a combination of subjects from different fields. These degrees are ideal for those who want to create a personalised learning experience by blending subjects that might not traditionally go together.

For instance, some universities offer a BSc in Human Sciences, which draws on modules from anthropology, psychology, geography, physiology, and statistical science. The first year typically provides a broad introduction, after which students can tailor their second and third years to focus on areas that align with their interests. This type of degree allows students to gain a more rounded perspective and develop a wide range of skills across different disciplines.

Sandwich Degrees

A Sandwich Degree is a variation of the traditional degree programme, where students spend one year (usually between their second and final year) working full-time for an employer in a role relevant to their course of study. This work placement, often called a "sandwich year," offers invaluable industry experience, providing students with practical skills that can greatly enhance their employability after graduation.

Sandwich degrees are particularly beneficial for students seeking to enter highly competitive job markets, as they give them a distinct advantage over other graduates. Many universities now offer sandwich options across a wide range of disciplines, giving students the chance to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Degree Apprenticeships

Degree Apprenticeships offer a unique alternative to the traditional university route. These programmes allow students to earn a full bachelor’s degree while working for an employer. Typically lasting up to six years, Degree Apprenticeships combine practical, on-the-job training with academic study, providing students with a solid foundation in both areas.

The key benefit of a Degree Apprenticeship is that students earn a salary while they study, which can help offset the cost of tuition fees. These programmes are perfect for those who prefer hands-on learning and want to avoid accumulating student debt. With a minimum requirement of 30 hours of work per week, Degree Apprenticeships offer a structured and supportive learning environment, where students can apply what they learn directly to their professional role.

Summary

The world of higher education offers an impressive range of degree types to suit every student’s interests, goals, and career aspirations. Whether you're aiming for a specialised Single Honours Degree, a flexible Joint or Combined Degree, or a practical Sandwich or Degree Apprenticeship, there are options to suit a variety of learning styles and professional ambitions. When choosing your degree, consider what aligns best with your passions, career aspirations, and preferred method of learning. No matter the path you take, your degree will open up a world of opportunities.

Good luck in making the choice that's right for you!