What jobs do you need a degree for?

In the UK, there are many jobs that require a degree. If you’re considering going to university or are due to graduate soon, you may be wondering what your options are. Some jobs look for a specific type of degree, whereas others are more flexible and accept all types of degrees.

In this post, we’re breaking down a list of the most common jobs you need a degree for, whether that be a specific degree or any type.

6 careers that require a specific degree

Doctor / Surgeon

To become a doctor or surgeon in the UK, you must first complete a degree in Medicine lasting 5-6 years. Depending on the path you choose to take, you will then face several years of further training before becoming a fully certified medical practitioner.

Veterinarian

Becoming a veterinarian is a path that requires university study. Full-time study of a veterinary degree takes around 5 years to complete. You’ll also need to ensure you gain a lot of hands-on experience working and volunteering in veterinary practices. In the UK, there’s a shortage of vets so you shouldn’t have a problem finding a job once you graduate.

Dentist

A 5 year degree in dentistry is required in order to become a dentist. Following your studies, you’ll also need to undergo 1 to 2 years of postgraduate training to complete your studies. It may be possible to complete a 4 year degree in dentistry if you already have a related degree.

Speech and language therapist

Speech and language therapists are in demand in the UK. To qualify, you must complete a degree in speech and language therapy. It’s also possible to complete the degree as a 4 year apprenticeship.

Solicitor

The most direct way to become a solicitor is by completing a degree in law, which is followed by a further 2-3 years of study and placements. It should be noted that you can also become a solicitor if you have a non-law degree. You’d just need to complete a graduate diploma in law which can take 1-2 years.

Architect

Becoming an architect is quite a long process that can take up to 7 years to complete. In addition to having a degree, you’ll also need a year of work experience, a further 2 years of university study, followed by another year of practical training.

Top 4 graduate jobs you can get with any degree

HR Officer

You don’t need a degree in HR to become a HR Manager. Often, employers will require a degree, but will fund you to undergo formal training to attain your CIPD qualification. Alternatively, if you have a non-related degree, you could always do a postgraduate course in human resource management.

Accountant

Many people think you need a degree in accountancy or mathematics to become an accountant. In reality, that’s not the case, although you do need to demonstrate strong numeracy skills. The minimum requirement to become an accountant is an AAT qualification, which doesn’t require a degree.

Teacher

Many people become teachers by completing a degree (any), and going on to complete formal teacher training, usually in the form of a PGCE. The PGCE usually takes one year of full-time study to complete.

Public Relations Officer

PR can provide a fantastic and lucrative career. Most PR roles require a degree, but not one that’s specifically related to it. However, if you want to study something relating to PR, such as Public Relations or Marketing Communications, this will definitely be beneficial!

Make the most of your degree

Whether you’re already at university or you’re thinking of enrolling, be sure to consider all options before diving into a career. Whether you decide to pursue a career in your chosen degree or not, you can feel safe knowing that there are always other options available from graduate marketing to graduate teaching job opportunities, many of which provide promising career prospects!

Due to graduate soon? Find out who the best graduate employers are in the UK and how to gain work experience as a grad.