University admissions have declined for the third consecutive year as tuition fees rise, prompting more young people to explore alternative education and career pathways.
New research from Cambridge Advance Online suggests that a degree is not essential for leadership roles, with nearly half of UK managers reaching senior positions without one.
According to the study, 47.4% of managers, directors, and senior officials in the UK do not hold a degree or equivalent qualification. Additionally, over half of current job listings that specify educational requirements do not mandate a university degree, reflecting a shift towards more flexible hiring criteria.
The findings are based on an analysis of over 34,000 Indeed job listings, combined with government education data. They highlight an increasing preference for alternative career routes at a time when tuition fees are set to rise by 3.1% in August. As university enrolment falls, nearly one million more British students are pursuing further education courses compared to those in higher education, marking an increase of 122,750 students from the previous academic year.
The Rise of Skills-Based Hiring
Alternative education routes such as NVQs, online training courses, and apprenticeships provide opportunities for those without traditional degrees. Career progression requirements vary by industry, but an increasing number of employers are shifting towards skills-based hiring.
A recent study found that over half of UK employers now prioritise abilities over formal education or past experience. In-demand skills include communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication. This trend aligns with the growing popularity of industry-specific training programmes that offer targeted learning tailored to current job market needs.
“In today’s rapidly changing labour market, advancing one’s education is vital for remaining competitive,” says Asli Derya, Learning Propositions Director at Cambridge Advance Online. “Ongoing learning can greatly enhance long-term career prospects, but it is essential to choose high-quality, up-to-date education that reflects the realities of the market.”
Shifting Trends in Higher Education and Career Development
While university admissions have declined overall, business and management courses have seen a 12.4% increase in enrolment for the 2022/23 academic year. Additionally, Cambridge Advance Online has reported increased interest in its business essentials courses, indicating a demand for leadership skills outside traditional degree pathways.
Stewart Utley, Learning Designer at Cambridge Advance Online, said, “Our motivations for learning are intrinsically linked to our circumstances, needs, and prior experiences, and these in turn shape the way we engage with both formal and informal education,” he explains.
“As we see more institutions offering ‘micro-credentials’—shorter, highly focused courses aimed at specific needs—we’re embracing a new age of increasingly personalised learning. Alternative routes to building a knowledge and skills base for dynamic professional contexts are becoming the norm, and rightly so.”
With employers placing greater value on practical skills and real-world experience, the growing acceptance of non-traditional education routes is reshaping career progression and leadership opportunities.
