Higher education, sometimes referred to as tertiary education, is crucial in determining how people will develop as individuals and as civilizations. It includes all post-secondary educational programs, such as those offered by colleges, universities, technical training centers, and vocational schools. This blog article explores the importance and complexities of postsecondary education.
Tertiary Education
The educational level that comes after secondary education is called tertiary education, sometimes known as third-level, third-stage, or post-secondary education. For instance, the World Bank defines higher education as including colleges, universities, and trade schools. Undergraduate and graduate education are considered to be a part of higher education, but postsecondary vocational education is referred to as continuing education in the US and as further education in the UK.
The completion of postsecondary education typically results in the awarding of diplomas, certificates, or academic degrees.
According to UNESCO, postsecondary education emphasizes learning activities in specialized subjects. Both academic and advanced vocational education are included.
According to the World Bank’s 2019 World Development Report on the Future of Work, postsecondary education is becoming even more important for people to compete in the labor market, given the future of work and the growing role of technology in value chains.
Remarks
The international community was urged to support inclusive education, including at the postsecondary level, in the UNESCO Salamanca Declaration of 1994. Since then, postsecondary education has become more widely available worldwide, but the exodus of students and institutions has worsened and cemented the marginalization of persons with disabilities. This is especially true in low- and middle-income environments, where the percentage of students with disabilities who complete college is significantly lower than the percentage of students without impairments.
It has been said that certain postsecondary institutions have approved or actively promoted grade inflation. Furthermore, some academics argue that where there is a greater need for graduates with specific talents than there is for them, this might exacerbate graduate unemployment and underemployment.
Comprehending Higher Education
The next degree of study after completing secondary school is called tertiary education. It encompasses colleges and trade institutions in addition to universities. According to the World Bank, for instance, higher education includes both universities and establishments that specialize in teaching certain subjects, such as community colleges and technical schools.
The Value of Postsecondary Education
Higher education is essential for people’s personal, social, and professional growth. Along with the advanced information and abilities needed for a variety of jobs, it also promotes creativity, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding.
Tertiary Institution Types
Universities: Provide a selection of graduate and undergraduate degrees in several subjects.
Community Colleges: Offer associate degrees and certifications for two years.
Technical Institutes: Emphasize technical skills and vocational training.
Vocational Schools: Focus on providing instruction for certain trades.
Selecting the Correct Course
Choosing the appropriate school and course is a big choice. Several aspects should be taken into account by prospective students, including the topic of study, the school’s reputation, tuition expenses, and the possibility of career progression.
How to Pay for Higher Education
The price of a university education might be very high. On the other hand, a wide range of financial assistance choices are accessible, such as work-study opportunities, student loans, grants, and scholarships.
The World View
Higher education is an international endeavor. International students might choose to study abroad, which can broaden their educational experience by exposing them to different cultures and languages.
In summary
Higher education serves as a doorway to opportunity. It gives people the information and abilities needed to successfully negotiate the challenges of the contemporary world and make a significant contribution to society.
FAQ
What distinguishes higher education from tertiary education? Higher education particularly refers to degree programs provided by universities and colleges, whereas tertiary education is a general phrase that encompasses all post-secondary education.
Is vocational education regarded as postsecondary education? Since they offer specialized post-secondary training, vocational and technical education are accepted as components of tertiary education.
Is it possible to pursue higher education online? A lot of universities do, in fact, offer degree programs and courses online, giving students the freedom to learn from anywhere.
More about Tertiary education – Wikipedia