Why go to university
The decision to go to university for some may be a simple one, but for others it is a complex choice that requires a lot of thought. Many factors go into making this decision, as this briefing explores.
To go or not to go: the university debate
The answer will be based on far more than exam results. It will be influenced by the state of the economy, the perceived impact of student debt, the quality of careers advice the student has had, what their friends are doing, their families' attitudes - and a lot more.
Who goes to uni?
The answer is, overwhelmingly those from the middle classes. In 2002, 81 per cent of young people from professional backgrounds went into higher education, but the comparable figure for those from unskilled backgrounds was 15 per cent. Why is this?
Why go to an elite university?
So, if you want to earn more, get a degree. But research evidence shows that if you want an even higher salary, go to one of the UK's top 20 universities. Why does going to an elite Russell Group university mean you could earn more?
A wealth warning (and questions to think about)
Not only are there not enough high-skilled, high-waged jobs to go around in the UK, "there will be increasing pressures on graduate wages as more high-skilled jobs migrate to low-waged countries."
You can also download a single pdf of all the above resources.
Credits
These resources were written by Diane Hofkins.
Other resources
ESRC web feature: The university effect.