Why higher education could be your next step after college
If you’re finishing your level 3 studies at college and wondering what comes next, higher education (HE) could be the route that helps you take your skills, confidence and career to the next level.
Higher education is about much more than university life. It’s a valuable way to invest in your future, gain industry-relevant skills, and open up doors you might not have considered before.
What’s the point of higher education today?
You might be thinking: “Do I really need a degree or a higher-level qualification?”
The short answer is, it depends on what your dream career is. But in 2025, having qualifications at Level 4 and above (like HNCs, HNDs, foundation degrees or full bachelor’s degrees) is becoming more important than ever.
In the next ten years, around 88% of new jobs will require some form of higher education. Yet in South Yorkshire, only 30% of working-age adults have a qualification at this level. That means getting ahead now could give you a huge advantage in the job market.
Higher education can help you:
- Start your career at a higher level
- Earn more over your lifetime
- Progress more quickly at work
- Learn valuable life and work skills
Along with the qualification, going to university helps you develop key transferable skills like research, communication, critical thinking, and time management. You’ll grow personally and socially by meeting new people, building confidence, and finding your community
Once you’ve finished your HE course, you’ll graduate with a real sense of pride, knowing you’ve achieved something big.
University Centre Rotherham: A local HE option that works around you
You might like the idea of doing a university-level qualification but be put off by the thought of moving away from home or taking on loads of student debt.
But you don’t have to. For students in Rotherham and nearby areas, University Centre Rotherham offers a practical and affordable way to continue your studies after college.
Here’s what makes University Centre Rotherham a smart next step:
- Flexible study options – full-time, part-time, and evening courses
- Lower course fees – between £6,900 – £7,600 a year for full-time study
- Courses close to home – you can stay local and save on living costs
- Small class sizes – more personalised support
- Designed with local employers in mind – build skills that are in demand
Our dedicated HE centre is bringing degrees to your doorstep with a range of higher technical qualifications like HNCs and HNDs, foundation degrees, higher level apprenticeships, and even full bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
All of our courses are accredited by other top universities like Sheffield Hallam, Hull and Huddersfield, so you’re guaranteed the same qualification just at better value for time and money.
However, unlike these big unis, a university centre like ours offers the benefits of university-level study but in a more accessible and supportive environment, especially for local learners.
Many students find it’s a smoother transition from college to university because of the smaller class sizes, familiar setting, and flexible study options.
Real Students, Real Stories
Lots of learners just like you have already made the leap from college to HE with University Centre Rotherham and found it was one of the best choices they made.
Daisy – Turned one day a week into a whole new future
Daisy was already working in the NHS but knew she wanted to keep moving up in her career. Through University Centre Rotherham, she enrolled on a Level 5 apprenticeship in healthcare, which only required her to study one day a week – leaving her free to keep earning and gaining experience the rest of the time.
“I now have the qualifications I need to progress to the next level. I’ve also become more confident at work; I take the lead on shifts, allocate staff, and even teach others.”
She got a distinction in her final assessment and walked away with real skills, experience, and belief in what she could achieve.
Chad – Levelled up his skills while being able to stay at home
Chad studied Games Animation at Rotherham College before deciding to progress onto higher education. After receiving offers from both University Centre Rotherham and Leeds University, Chad made the choice to stay local and continue developing his skills in game design.
“It took me a while to decide I wanted to go to university. But UCR is local to me, and there are lots of people there to support me.”
He’s been able to carrying on doing what he loves while staying close to home surrounded by a support system that knows how to help him succeed.
Sofia – Travelled weekly for the right experience
Sofia had lots of options when it came to choosing where to study a photography degree.
But she was drawn to University Centre Rotherham because of its small class sizes and the personal feel of the learning environment – even though it meant travelling from Swindon every week.
“You’re not just a number here. The support and connection you get makes a massive difference.”
Her story proves that the right environment can make all the difference in your confidence, creativity, and success.
Muhammad – From GCSE struggles to success at degree level
Muhammad didn’t always find education easy. In fact, he admits school and exams were a real challenge for him. Which is why he chose to study a computing degree at University Centre Rotherham for the smaller class sizes and valuable support on offer.
“University Centre Rotherham has been a breath of fresh air. I really liked that the course focused more on assignments and coursework, which allowed me to do my best without the pressure. Small groups mean more support. I was able to connect with my tutors and get help when I needed it.”
After finishing his degree last summer, Muhammad has since progressed onto a master’s degree in Software Development.
What could your story be?
If you’re finishing college or heading towards your final year and thinking about what comes next, you don’t need all the answers now.
Take time to explore your options, find out what qualifications you’ll need to get there, and consider how higher education might help you reach your goals.
However, these students show that no matter your background, commitments or confidence level, there’s a path that can work for you.
And University Centre Rotherham might just be where it starts.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can speak to careers advisers at college for free, tailored guidance.