Advice for Students of the Recession

During the month in which thousands of students will be graduating, the media has been awash with advice from education experts in light of the ongoing recession. So with the general lack of optimism amongst students regarding their job prospects, are they right to be disheartened? Or is it time for youngsters to be entirely sure of their future plans before they apply?

According to research by The Independent, there has been an interesting change in trend amongst prospective students recently. Whilst applications to subjects with obviously saturated marketplaces, such as Computer Science and Media, have declined this year, those considered ‘pure subjects' (such as philosophy, economics and politics) have seen an upsurge in interest. Additionally, specific vocational courses have also seen an interest in applications - as students either move towards general subjects that truly appeal to them, or instead opt for something more niche but less competitive when it comes to applying for a job.

The recession is also affecting student deferrals and what they might do on their year out. The Telegraph reports that around 33,000 students are going to defer this year - with many opting to work and save money, instead of embarking on the usual gap year endeavour of travelling. This option seems increasingly sensible as students will not only ensure a cushion of savings when they start university, but they will also benefit from a national increase in minimum wage during October.

Despite salary downturns for graduates and subsequent disillusionment, The Times highlights that ‘the financial case for going to university remains compelling'. In the wake of their 2010 Good University Guide, students who are just about to start university are also being reminded of what the post-recession climate will be like for graduates - and that a degree will more than likely me even more highly regarded than it is currently.

One surprising aspect of the current (mass) media coverage surrounding higher education, is the lack of focus on alternatives for prospective graduates who are eager to study but not to be hindered by the daunting financial aspect of full-time university study. This year will no-doubt see another increase in the number of distance learning courses available, an option that is more financially viable for many, as well as easier to manage whilst working part-time. Consequently, online study is proving tempting for those who want to earn while they learn - and to not be stuck with an unsightly debt when they graduate.

Sarah Maple is writing for Kaplan Open Learning about degree courses online.