What is the value of a general degree?

Many students complete general degrees such as Arts or Science. These provide generic transferable skills which equip them for work in a variety of roles. Students may then choose to specialise through postgraduate courses and work experience.

Skills

A university degree will help you:

• develop communication and interpersonal skills
• achieve goals within a timeframe, both individually and as part of a team
• analyse and interpret information and
• develop problem solving skills

University also encourages personal development, exposing you to ideas, people and experiences you otherwise wouldn’t have.

Benefits of general degrees

• Employers value the knowledge and skills developed at university so a degree can open many doors.
• If you’re unsure of a career direction, a general degree allows you to sample a variety of units to help you decide on your areas of interest.
• Combined degree courses with specialised areas enable development of both the specialist and generalist skills.
• After a general degree you may be clearer about further study or employment options.

Specialist and vocational degrees

Students who have very clear ideas about their career direction undertake courses that are specifically targeted. These develop specialist knowledge and skills as well as providing generic skills.

• Some employers seek these specific attributes for particular jobs, so your degree can make you readily employable.
• You may decide to apply your skills more creatively in non-mainstream occupations or those not normally associated with your course. It will be helpful if you can articulate what you have learnt and how you have developed personally throughout your course.