The competition for finding distinction at university is at an all-time high. The current degree classification system, coupled with a rise in prospective students has led to a saturated jobs market for many graduates who have similar academic abilities. We set out to discover the causes behind this, what the statistics show and how students can now differentiate themselves. The traditional degree system is broken down into four groups:
First-Class Honours (First or 1st) – 70% and above
Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) – 60-69.9%
Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) – 50-59.9%
Third-Class Honours (Third or 3rd) – 40-49.9%
With just under 50% of UK students graduating with an Upper Second-Class Honours degree in 2011, the 2:1 is the most common grade students leave with. This means about half of UK students are grouped in the same classification, which leaves little room for variation. The issue with this classification system is that the difference between one student who got 60% and another who got 69% is considerably large but goes by unnoticed. On paper there is no difference, both students are awarded a 2:1. However, the reality can be a lot different. A 69% student may have better ability, but this will not necessarily get recognised. Although the degree classification topic has been subject to much criticism in recent times it is still the system, which students have to abide by. Attaining a first-class degree thereby becomes the best way for high achieving students to distinguish themselves from the rest.
Around 15% of graduates achieved a first-class degree in 2011. Compare this to around 10% in 2004 and it is apparent that firsts are becoming more achievable. In this group, it doesn’t matter if you achieve a 70%, 80% or 90%, they are all firsts on paper. Why settle for 65% when with another 5% you are in the highest group you can be. Whether a graduate wants to go onto further study or begin a career, a first really speaks for itself and highlights their academic ability.
Some have claimed that a 2:1 graduate is often a more rounded individual, socially and academically, than a first graduate. It is unwarranted to assume that a first-class degree requires not going out, non-stop study and locking oneself in the library day and night. This is not the case, in fact being able to successfully balance social and academic activities at university is an invaluable skill that can be used well after graduation. There is no real reason why any student cannot aim for a first-class degree and still experience all university has to offer. It all comes down to the approach and attitude towards their academic work.
Still there is no problem with walking away from graduation with a 2:1, it certainly will not hold anyone back. However, any student looking to succeed should want to get the most from their degree and make the most of the opportunity they have. With ever increasing university fees and fierce competition in the jobs market, this is now more important than ever. Who wouldn’t want to be in the top 15% of the country?
First-Class Honours (First or 1st) – 70% and above
Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) – 60-69.9%
Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) – 50-59.9%
Third-Class Honours (Third or 3rd) – 40-49.9%
With just under 50% of UK students graduating with an Upper Second-Class Honours degree in 2011, the 2:1 is the most common grade students leave with. This means about half of UK students are grouped in the same classification, which leaves little room for variation. The issue with this classification system is that the difference between one student who got 60% and another who got 69% is considerably large but goes by unnoticed. On paper there is no difference, both students are awarded a 2:1. However, the reality can be a lot different. A 69% student may have better ability, but this will not necessarily get recognised. Although the degree classification topic has been subject to much criticism in recent times it is still the system, which students have to abide by. Attaining a first-class degree thereby becomes the best way for high achieving students to distinguish themselves from the rest.
Around 15% of graduates achieved a first-class degree in 2011. Compare this to around 10% in 2004 and it is apparent that firsts are becoming more achievable. In this group, it doesn’t matter if you achieve a 70%, 80% or 90%, they are all firsts on paper. Why settle for 65% when with another 5% you are in the highest group you can be. Whether a graduate wants to go onto further study or begin a career, a first really speaks for itself and highlights their academic ability.
Some have claimed that a 2:1 graduate is often a more rounded individual, socially and academically, than a first graduate. It is unwarranted to assume that a first-class degree requires not going out, non-stop study and locking oneself in the library day and night. This is not the case, in fact being able to successfully balance social and academic activities at university is an invaluable skill that can be used well after graduation. There is no real reason why any student cannot aim for a first-class degree and still experience all university has to offer. It all comes down to the approach and attitude towards their academic work.
Still there is no problem with walking away from graduation with a 2:1, it certainly will not hold anyone back. However, any student looking to succeed should want to get the most from their degree and make the most of the opportunity they have. With ever increasing university fees and fierce competition in the jobs market, this is now more important than ever. Who wouldn’t want to be in the top 15% of the country?