Opportunities with different degrees

Although there are few rules regarding what degree subject must have been studied for someone to do a particular job in industry, some degrees provide a better preparation for working in a particular area than others do. Guidance is provided here in the degree chart on this site.

Some roles do require people to have completed a particular degree to achieve the appropriate professional qualification – an examples Pharmacists, who must have a pharmacy degree.

What are the different types of degrees?

Undergraduate honours degrees are normally 3 year courses (4 years in Scotland) leading to award of BA (Batchelor of Arts) or BSc (Batchelor of Science). However, for science and engineering, there are now an increasing number of 4 year courses leading to an undergraduate masters degree – MSci, MChem and MEng. These degrees involve a more in-depth study of the subject than BSc degrees and usually involve a large research project. Students who have completed a 4 year course have a more appropriate background for a research career than those who have done a 3 year degree.

Courses with industrial experience. These courses involve a period of study in industry. Students are usually paid during their placement. The benefits of spending time in industry can include enhanced confidence, improved transferable skills and greater awareness of career opportunities.

Two year Foundation Degrees are increasingly being offered for those interested in working in a technical capacity in industry. There is often an opportunity to continue and end up with an Honours degree.