SIR – A professional career doesn’t always mean you have to go to University. Over the next month thousands of potential students from across West Yorkshire will be considering whether university is the right route for them.

The cost of university is rising to as much as £30,000, however, not wanting to burden yourself with this level of debt doesn’t mean a professional career is beyond you. Many professional bodies such as ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) don’t require a degree. Studying for a professional qualification instead of choosing to complete an undergraduate degree can have a number of advantages. You can earn valuable practical experience whilst completing your qualification and once completed you will have a qualification that is equivalent to a masters level degree.

University experience could be an important part of your development, but it is always worth considering whether it is something you want to do, or are doing because you think it is the logical next step. In today’s competitive job market, three years experience gained while studying for a professional qualification could put you ahead of your peers.

Prakash Bohorun, West Yorkshire Members’ Network President, ACCA