Can’t get to Uni? No worries – there’s more than one way to get into the profession of your dreams!

The A-level’s drama has taken centre stage, with an estimated 150,000 students unable to enter Uni in the fall (BBC News, “University place shortage 'hitting 150,000 students'”). Left high and dry by the higher education system, what options do students have?

David Willetts, Shadow Secretary of State for Universities and Skills, suggests volunteering, an option he feels will bolster students’ CVs and help their chances in future Uni applications (Guardian, “A-level results 2010: No degree course? Then try volunteering, says minister”). But what about those students who can’t afford a year of unpaid work?

Further Education (FE) and apprenticeships offer opportunities for a quick transition into the working world, and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) confirms their commitment to these options with continued investment in FE and “50,000 extra high-quality apprenticeships” (BIS News, “A level Results: Information and options for students who have received their A level results”).

There is, however, one route into the professions little discussed in the media – the professional qualifications offered, or accredited by, professional bodies. From accounting to engineering to marketing, these qualifications provide an alternative route into the professions of choice, and are often accompanied by (paid!) work experience. Below are just some of the options out there for students not on the Uni trail…

Accounting
The Association of Accounting Technician qualifications are open to people irrespective of age, experience or previous qualifications. The Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants and Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales also offer routes for school leavers. One in 12 accountants now qualifies via a non-graduate route, so you’ll be in good company! BBC News recently featured a student, Das Bikramjit Gakhal, who has decided to go down this route; read his story here http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-10926532.

Architecture
The field of Architectural Technology offers opportunities to enter architecture without going to Uni. The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists has approved a number of courses for students looking at entering the profession through an alternative route.

Engineering
The Royal Academy of Engineering supports the The Engineering Diploma, which gives “an introduction to the industry and…an overview of the different sectors, and provides information about career opportunities, and a foundation in engineering principles”. The Engineering sector is huge, covering fields from agricultural to mechanical; our sector summary gives an overview of the routes into each.

Marketing
The Chartered Institute of Marketing offers qualifications and training to help you get ahead in this competitive profession. The Chartered Institute of Public Relations also offers a Foundation Award for students interested in PR. 

Human Resources
No specific qualification is necessary for a job in HR, but the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s foundation qualifications and certificates can help you get there!

23 August 2010

D'Yon Peoples is Communications Coordinator at PARN (Professional Associations Research Network).
PARN is a not-for-profit, membership organisation for professional bodies. PARN’s main areas of expertise are research and consultancy services, provided not only for our members, but for other professional bodies and organisations interested in the field of professionalism.

To contact D'Yon email dyon@parnglobal.com or call +44 (0)117 928 1992.