Third of People Say Uni Degree Not Worth It
- One in three people think university degrees are not worth it
- Student loan inquiry begins in England
- Confidence in university degrees drops due to financial concerns
- Graduates face significant debt and limited job prospects
- MPs investigate student loan system for fairness
A third of people believe a university degree is not worth it amid a student loan inquiry, officials said. Confidence in university degrees has dropped due to financial concerns and declining job prospects.
- 1 in 3 people say university degrees are not worth it.
- Student loan debt is a major concern for graduates.
Financial Concerns and Declining Job Prospects
Gemma, a 33-year-old graduate, said her degree was worth it, but living with the loan is 'draining'. 'It feels like I'm constantly chasing a debt that gets bigger over time; it feels like climbing a mountain,' she said. Student loans have contributed to her decision to delay starting a family with her partner.
Expert Views on University Degrees
Experts said that early loan repayments don't necessarily reflect the impact a degree has on life-long income as graduate earnings typically increase over time. However, the number of people who think graduates are better off in the long run has also collapsed, sources confirmed.
Historical Context of Student Loans
The British Social Attitudes researchers have tracked attitudes on key issues for several years and found a significant decline in confidence in university degrees. The student loan system in England has been under scrutiny for its fairness and effectiveness. Government sources said that the inquiry will examine the current system and propose reforms.
Human Impact of Student Loan Debt
Many graduates face significant debt and limited job prospects, witnesses said. 'It's not worth it really with the debt accrued. Most people I know with degrees work in an office doing a job they could have done regardless,' one graduate said. The inquiry will also consider the impact of student loan debt on graduates' mental health and well-being.