University 'the first step in a career'

University is shifting from being the last step in an individual's education to being the first decisive step in building a career, one analyst has noted.

Oliver Tant, head of audit at KPMG, said it is "clear" that this is becoming the case, adding that young people can no longer afford to "let the grass grow under their feet" in today's highly competitive environment.

He added that the competition, and the perceived costs involved, mean that a 'return on investment' is essential from higher education.

"This appears to be borne out in the recently released UCAS figures which showed a drop in applications overall and an emphasis on subjects that were perceived to offer better employment prospects, such as science, technology and maths," Mr Tant added.

The expert said it is therefore "really important" for young people and their parents to look at all the options available to them before applying for higher education and how the course will help them move into the career of their choosing.

It comes after a recent survey by Comptia showed that nearly half of young people are missing out on career opportunities due to a lack of information from schools and universities, despite having the skills employers want.

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Posted by Wayne Bly

Filed: 07-02-2012