Is university worth it?
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- Hi Eve,Thinking about going back to uni myself this autumn. I tried hard to rationalize why I’m going back and I came to a conclusion that it’s ultimately up to me. I’m only doing this because I want to. It's also a good career pivotting point too.
- Hi Eve,I would say yes, but particularly in the creative industry you don't need a degree to start. I went to study on Central Saint Martins, it meant to be one of the best in Europe. However the knowledge I learned from there is more like the kind of knowledge had to mature to be able to use, lots of conceptual stuff. If I could do it again I would go to uni at age of 19 but rather 25 or so when I already had some working experience. It's specific to my course and the conceptual approach they have. Some of them more practical, giving you real life briefs but then isn't real life work experience better than that? Generally I think 1 year of working gives the experience that 3 years of university gives.By the end of the day you can make it with or without a degree in the creative industry, it's much more importan to have some clarification about your skills and the route you want to take.
- @Jon Buckley Thank you for taking the time to reply, I should have been more specific as I am interested in production design for film and TV. I am considering Nottingham Trent but it’s so expensive!! It’s great to hear everyones point of view and has given me lots to think about. Thank you again.
- As others have pointed out, it depends. If for example you are looking to get an art director role in a corporation, then yes, as they probably wouldn't interview you without a degree. Other kinds of work, maybe, or maybe not. I will say that many artists work in isolation. Going to university gives you the opportunity to meet other young creatives, and learn new things from them as well as from seasoned professional. So that aspect, which can change the course of your professional career, is valuable.
- It depends.I didn't think it would be worth it for me so I didn't go. I didn't want to spend three years studying something I could perhaps learn on the job - and be paid while doing so. So I went straight to work from college.
- 90% yes. I have been in the creative field for some time. I didn’t go to university and luckily I found my way in and studied hard in what I do. I have been surrounded by people who go to university, the conversation is always… which one did you go to? Do you know, so and so… (lots of contacts). You pay is determined by management if you have a degree (even if it’s never mentioned). Don’t believe all the BS about diversity (socially, economically etc) it doesn’t exist in our industry. When I was younger, it was a class system, the beast has just changed it look.
- Depends what university you go to, as some degrees with high profile names attached to them are like keys opening up more doors for opportunities vs low profile university names.
- It's a very personal choice and not a straight forward answer.Personally, I believe that if you have a desire to study, to advance your knowledge and life experience then you should investigate the best course (subject area) for you and then the best universities, colleges or other institutions that may offer exactly what you are looking for.Do your research and if this is really what you want, then go for it!It is not the only option so give this plenty of thought, consider your options and go with your instinct.University can be a great experience, but I was lucky to be from a generation that did not have to consider the financial investment quite so much. However, I do still think I would go for it, the time and financial investment is worth it if you find the course and institution that is right for you.
- Hello Eve,I am the most boring person you will ever hear from, as I have been doing the same job in live theatre, tv and events for over a zillion years. BUT... In all that time I have never heard a director, writer, producer or casting director - not one - ask anyone 'have you got a degree?'But...I have always heard them ask, 'where did you train?'In other words, find someone to train with and to hone your skills and knowledge but - unless you want to teach - do not worry too much about a 'degree'. Learn with the best you can find.Be warned also, post-pandemic (and due to regulatione relating to Universites' funding) more and more Arts' susbjects are being taught at 'Universities' by people with degrees who who have no professional experience whatsoever... But they have a degree...So...Good luck and - as always - make your luck work for you. Knock on every door you are able to. And... if you are good, someone will be very pleased to let you in.HUGH
- lots of people say you don't need a degree to get into the creative industry, which is definitely true.however, if you're someone like me, it was pretty much a must for getting a career going, it enabled me to be able to be in london where opportunities were, and i started to get stuck in whilst studying which helped MASSIVELY. i also managed to get a scholarship for my masters which meant i did it for free + got a grant which helped lots with living expenses and again, meant being able to be where opportunities were. wouldn't have been possible if i didn't study, so depends on your situation!
- Hi eve,from my perspective - no. But it depends on the course you're at. I studioed photography.The good thing about being in uni is that you have likeminded people around you and resources (tutors, studios, etc.). The not so good thing is that you're in a bubble and once you're out after completing the course you're pretty much on your own. Knowing what I know now I'd skip university and move straight into assisting and working with people in the indutry. In creative industry you most likely learning by doing.Hope that helps. All the best!
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