Even if you’re determined to learn a degree outside of school, the truth is, employers still value that piece of paper. Getting a degree through traditional methods is a slow, painful, and expensive process. Times have changed, and we have seen the growth and development of online and blended learning. If you’re someone who finds school difficult, then you might realize online learning suits your learning style, other than sitting in a classroom. Even though our society has changed, some jobs will still require a valid degree no matter how smart you are. There are many innovative methods that you can use to get yourself the degree you crave for. Please read on to understand some of these unconventional methods.

Online learning

Are you unsure about what you want to do at the university? Do you want to dive into the workplace and earn some money while you top up your credentials? The growth of online learning and part-time means you can learn plenty of courses wherever you are, whenever you want. The benefit of online education is that it suits all ages. Going back to college at any age to get your degree may seem challenging, but it’s often worthwhile. If you struggle to learn in a classroom setup, you may find online learning a better alternative. With online learning, you get flexible and timely mentoring group sessions. You also can access learning materials on your devices, whether it’s a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

Degree-by-examination

As we mentioned earlier, going through the traditional education system takes time and, in many cases, expensive. But what if you could get the degree employers’ want in less time and at a lower cost? By using the degree-by-examination approach, you could earn your degree by taking tests instead of classes. In many cases, it costs a fraction of what you would spend on a regular degree. And with the same earning power, validity, and legitimacy.

Degree apprenticeship

These are degrees offered by your employer in partnership with a training provider, such as a university or college. The significant advantage of degree apprenticeships is that you’ll earn money and still get your degree. Many of them also offer a job at the end. Many education experts seem to agree with the concept of management apprenticeship. This is where you work and get on-the-job experience and still get the accreditation of a degree with a full professional qualification. Many of these programs make you mature quickly in the job market.

Foundation degrees

You can acquire these degrees either part-time or full time. Many of them are usually related to a particular field of work. They tend to be a mixture of classroom learning and practical workplace scenarios. After completing the foundation level, you can top up with a full degree. If you don’t meet the qualifications for a traditional degree, then a foundation degree is perfect for you. As much as some of them have different entry requirements, one or two A-levels or equivalent vocational qualifications are both acceptable. Additionally, it’s important to note you will have to pay, but the fee is lower than a traditional degree.

Takeaway

You can still get your degree through some of the methods we’ve discussed above. It would help look into your career path and assess what is most relevant to you as an individual. Our society still believes that you can’t be successful unless you go to university. Well, the time has proven that’s not the case.

Elena Deeley did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.