To uni or not to uni – that is the question
After successfully finishing school, the next step, once you’ve done celebrating of course, is to consider what you want to do with your life. With many universities urging students to take extra precautions this semester, it’s clear the overall university experience has very much been put on hold since the start of the pandemic. However, a shorter diploma program could be a great alternative and benefit your future career just as much, if not more, than a university degree!
If you’ve decided not to commit yourself to university until COVID-19 clears, or to just not go to university at all, there are no downsides to gaining extra qualifications through a diploma program. Especially after the challenges of the pandemic, what you truly want to do in life is something many people are considering. So, if you choose to take a break before going to university or just want to pursue a job straight away, a flexible learning program of study will ensure you stay proactive and gain the skills to help you be successful.
Here are 5 benefits to taking a diploma program:
- A faster and more focused way to gain a qualification
University courses typically last around three or four years, give a broader theoretical level of education, and can leave students with a large debt to repay. Therefore, a shorter one-year diploma program is often a better choice, not only because it takes less time and costs less than a four-year program, but also because it is focused on a specific set of skills to help you pursue a certain career path. At Academy of Learning Career College, you can also choose a campus close to home, reducing the financial burden further. Taking one of the variety of programs Academy of Learning offers can lead to a diploma in less than a year – perfect for someone who is looking to take a year out and wants to improve their employability or enhance their skillset. - Boost your CV or university application
If you plan on taking a year out before going to university, embarking on a diploma program means you’ll already be ahead of the curve when you do decide to go. However, the benefits of taking a program of study don’t stop there. Studying in your own time shows future employers that you’re a self-starter and have the motivation to continually develop your skills – qualities employers are looking for.
With programs ranging from business administration to software and web development, the possibilities to boost your CV or university application are numerous. Academy of Learning has an unrivalled reputation which is highly respected by employers and universities alike. - Help and support along the way
At Academy of Learning, we provide learning coaches who are on hand to help students every step of the way. Having exceptional support and guidance means whenever you need advice or encouragement you have access to a coach who is right there by your side. A learning coach acts as an accountability partner for students, helping to motivate you, solve learning-related issues, and give guidance throughout the program. Having a coach who offers patient and professional advice increases your chance of success. - Flexible learning
Unlike traditional universities, Academy of Learning’s diploma programs can offer much more flexibility in when and how you study. It is easier to plan your studies around your work and home life. Not only do you have the flexibility to study at times that suit you, but you can also control the pace of learning, allowing you to focus your studies on the areas that matter most. Whether you work a part-time or full-time job or don’t work at all, this flexibility can help you complete your program in a way that suits you. - Campus life
Studying on campus (restrictions permitting) is a great way to learn, allowing you to get out of the house and escape the stresses of your day-to-day life. On campus, you will learn around like-minded people and benefit from engaging with our learning coaches face to face. Academy of Learning campuses are always easy to get to and have convenient hours, so it’s simple for you to pop in according to your schedule.
Whether you’re looking to take a year out from university until the end of the pandemic, or just looking for a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to help you start a new career, a diploma program puts the power back into your hands. With courses and programs designed for specific careers and workplace requirements, there’s an option to suit everyone at Academy of Learning.