As the Year 12 trial exams wrap up and university open days are in full swing across Australia, many young Australians and their parents are asking the same, burning question: “Will this degree lead to a job?” It’s a question driven by practicality, understandable concern, and a desire for stability in an increasingly uncertain world. Yet, according to Cherine Fahd, associate head of school at the University of Technology Sydney, this question might not be the most helpful one to ask.
The value of a degree goes beyond a job
In a world where the job market is constantly evolving, simply equating a degree with a guaranteed job can be a limiting approach. The question assumes that the primary value of a university education lies in its ability to deliver a specific job outcome immediately after graduation. However, university is about far more than just preparing for a job. It is a time for intellectual exploration, personal growth, and the development of a broad set of skills that can be applied across many fields.
A degree should be seen as a foundation for a lifetime of learning and development. For example, a student who begins a degree in design with the intention of becoming a fashion designer may find along the way that their true passion lies in sustainable textiles, a field that might not have been on their radar when they first applied. The degree offers them the opportunity to discover new interests and directions they hadn’t previously considered.
It’s about skills, not just careers
One of the most important aspects of university education is the development of transferable skills. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work in diverse environments. These skills are crucial in today’s job market, where the nature of work is changing rapidly due to technological advances and other global factors. New jobs are emerging, old ones are disappearing, and the ability to adapt is more important than ever.
Rather than focusing on whether a degree will lead directly to a job, Fahd suggests that students and parents should consider a few alternative questions that can lead to a more fulfilling and versatile education:
- What skills will I develop in this program? Degrees in creative fields, for instance, foster critical thinking and creativity, which are highly valued across industries.
- Are there opportunities for practical experience? Seek programs offering internships and industry projects that build networks and real-world insights.
- Will the course expose me to diverse cultural contexts? International exchange programs can broaden perspectives and enhance cultural sensitivity.
- How does this course encourage resilience and lifelong learning? Look for courses that emphasise creativity and independent thinking.
- What have recent graduates done with this degree? Understanding the diverse paths graduates take can provide a realistic view of a degree’s potential.
University should be a place where students discover who they are, what they care about, and how they can best contribute to the world.