High school is an exciting time for any student; with endless opportunities, chances for exploration and self-discovery. However, when you leave high school, deciding what to do next can be difficult. With so many options available, the decision can often be overwhelming. To help you figure out what to do after high school, here are some of the most popular options for the next step. 

College or University

One of the most common options after leaving school is going to college or university. Both options are a great way to gain knowledge and skills for a specific career path. It also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the subject and gain valuable experience. 

If you’ve already decided on your career path, pursuing a course you love at a well-ranking university or college  can be a great way to explore your interests and discover new career paths. Even if you haven’t made up your mind, choosing a subject that you are passionate about and excels in, can be a stepping stone to opening doors to various career opportunities. When you study at a top university, you will have access to excellent resources, experienced lecturers and tutors, and a wide range of industry connections that can help you build a solid foundation for your future career. So don't be afraid to throw yourself into a course you love - it could lead to exciting and fulfilling career paths you may have never considered before.

Studying at college or university provides students with a broad education in a variety of subjects, rather than focusing on specific job skills, like vocational courses do. In college and university, students are encouraged to explore different areas of study, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in academic research. This makes them a lot more theory-based and require a higher level of academic rigour, in preparation for careers that require advanced knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Some of the career paths that may require a college or university degree include:

1. Healthcare professionals: doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals.

2. Business professionals: jobs in business management, finance, marketing, and human resources.

3. Engineers: most engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.

4. Lawyers: lawyers must complete a bachelor's degree and then attend law school.

5. Scientists: careers in science, such as chemists, biologists, physicists, and mathematicians, usually require a bachelor's degree or higher.

6. Educators: teaching positions  and many positions in higher education require a graduate degree.

There are also several advantages to attending a university or college in the United Kingdom, including: 

Quality education: Universities and colleges in the United Kingdom are well-known for delivering high-quality education with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. UK universities are consistently ranked among the best in the world, with several renowned for their brilliance in certain subjects. 

Wide selection of courses: UK universities and colleges provide a diverse range of courses and degree programmes, allowing you to select a course that matches your interests and professional goals. 

International reputation: A degree from a UK institution or college is highly esteemed and acknowledged across the world. This is especially useful if you intend to work or study abroad after graduation. 

Cultural diversity: The UK  is home to a varied spectrum of people and cultures, which may provide students from all over the world with a unique and rewarding experience. Studying in the UK allows you to meet individuals from all backgrounds and widen your perspectives.

Top 10 universities and colleges to study in the UK

1. University of Oxford 

2. University of Cambridge

3. University of London

4. University of St Andrews

5. Imperial College London

6. Durham University

7. Loughborough University

8. University of Bath

9. UCL (University College London)

10. University of Warwick

Vocational or Technical School

Vocational courses are another option, with the goal of preparing or equipping students with the necessary skills and education in order to make these students seasoned professionals in the working world. This is also a great option for students who want to pursue a career in a specialised field.  Here, you can learn specific skills related to a particular trade or profession and is ideal for those  who want to enter the workforce quickly and don’t have the time or resources to pursue a traditional three or four-year degree. Some vocational courses, like coding, can also be learnt through short online courses by those who have other commitments or want more flexibility. 

Vocational Courses are practice-oriented unlike theory-based courses like Mathematics, History, English.

Example subjects include: 

• Web-developer

• Electrical engineering

• Mechanical engineering

• Plumbing

• Accountant

• Graphic design

• Painting

• Surveying

• Nursing

• Aviation

• Construction

• Bakery

• Fashion design

• Photography

• Product design

• Travel and tourism

There are various benefits to attending a trade school after graduating from high school, including: 

Focused training: Trade schools offer specialised instruction in certain trades or occupational skills. This means you may obtain specialised skills rapidly and be job-ready in less time than a standard three or four-year degree. 

Reduced cost: Trade school programmes are often less expensive than three or four-year degree courses.

High need for skilled people: Numerous trades, such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC specialists, have a strong demand for skilled personnel. This implies that graduates of trade schools are frequently in high demand in the labour market, with strong career prospects and high pay potential. 

Hands-on training: Several trade schools provide hands-on training, allowing you to practise your abilities in a real-world situation. This is especially useful for people who learn best via hands-on experiences. 

Career-oriented education: Because trade schools are frequently focused on career-oriented education, you will develop skills that are immediately transferable to the workforce.

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a type of work-based training programme that enables you to gain practical experience and job-specific skills while earning a wage. It's an excellent option if you want to start your career and learn on the job.

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries, from healthcare to engineering to creative arts. There are three levels of apprenticeships to choose from, depending on your prior qualifications and experience -  intermediate, advanced, and higher.

As an apprentice, you'll be employed by a company and work alongside experienced staff to learn the ropes of your chosen profession. You'll also attend classes or training sessions to gain theoretical knowledge and earn qualifications that are recognized across the country. These qualifications can range from a Level 2 certificate to a Level 7 master's degree.

One of the key benefits of an apprenticeship is that you'll be earning while you learn. You'll receive a wage that increases as you gain more experience and complete different stages of your apprenticeship. You'll also be entitled to the same benefits as other employees, such as paid holiday and sick leave.

Online Education

Online education is a great option for those who want to gain knowledge and skills in a particular field, but don’t have the time or resources to attend a traditional college or university. Here, you’ll be able to learn at your own pace and in your own environment. Additionally, with many free or low-cost options available, online education can be a great way to explore and learn about a field of interest without the commitment of a college or university. 

At Melio, we offer tailored programs to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your knowledge in a certain subject, learn more about the UK university system or simply get a taste of what university is like to determine if it’s right for you, we can help! To learn more about what we do please book a call with our admissions team or enrol in one of our programs here.  

In summary, there are various options available for students who are undecided on what to do after school. The key is to explore each option thoroughly, consider your goals, and choose the path that aligns best with your interests and career aspirations. Whether you choose to attend a traditional university or college, a community college, a trade school, pursue online education, or apprenticeships, the most important thing is to make an informed decision and commit to something that you’re going to enjoy.