what to do with a degree

[nyarlathotep]

this would be the traditional 'i dont know what to do after alevels' problem. i take a combination of arts and sciences, received a's in as level and am now applying for university courses. whilst history is the most appealing choice, i have little concept of a career aided by this degree which actually appeals to me - i do not wish to go into teaching, library/museum work, etc. i was contemplating either law, philosophy or psychology...would this be worthwhile?  

[Miss Zippy]

History is a well regarded degree and it's important to read a subject you enjoy and are good at.  As far as a career in law goes, lots of lawyers do not have law degrees. If you do decide you want to train as a lawyer though and you do not have a qualifying law degree, you'll need to do the Common Professional Examination (one year full time) before undertaking either the Legal Practice Course (if you want to be a solicitor) or the Bar Vocational Course (if you want to be a barrister).

[kazza12345]

There are lots of jobs at degree level, but not many of them are degree specific.  My husband has a history degree, and has used it to go into health and saftey, and has started a masters in health and safety on the back of it

[Simon_States]

Hi. I have recently graduated with a degree in History.  History is a very well regarded degree and it is a common misconception that History graduates primarily end up as teachers, museum workers or in heritage services.  I have to admit I had severe doubts about the degree and wanted to change after my first year as I could see little vocational benefit in pursuing it.  However I am glad I stuck it out.  Like the above post states anyone with a 2:1+ level degree can take a law conversion.  Be warned though it will cost you at least 5k for the conversion year! and  will mean 4 years in education in total. If you are serious about becoming a lawyer you should take a Law degree.  As alot of Graduate Schemes require a 2:1 level degree in any discipline, you may be better to take a degree in your strongest subject.  I breezed through my BA  and found it easy to get a respectable 2:1.  As a result the choice of graduate schemes is vast.  At the end of the day it's really personal qualities in the workplace that will make you succeeded, the degree just gives you one foot on the ladder. Good luck.