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Why a 2:2 or 3rd Class Degree is Not the End of the World

It is common knowledge that most graduate training schemes require a minimum of a 2:1 for eligibility. It’s also a well-known fact that the majority of postgraduate courses require a higher mark, at the minimum for funding and simply for application in some cases. This leads to a lot of anxiety for students who expect to get or actually receive a lower grade. But it’s not the end of the world if you get a 2:2 or a third; there is still so much you can do with it.

 

Important point to note: According to recent research by Oxford university, average salary, position and employment figures for students with a 2:1 and those with a 2:2 show little to no difference after six months of employment.

 

Not All Graduate Schemes Require a 2:1

While the biggest, most lucrative and sought after graduate schemes may be closed (especially in the sciences), it is not the case that all schemes are out of bounds. Some simply expect graduates to have a degree, the subject and grade does not matter. Spend some time searching the various graduate schemes in your field, and some out of it and check whether they will accept an application from a graduate with a 2:2 or 3rd. You might be surprised at how many will.

 

Grade isn’t Everything: Where Did You Study?

A 2:2 from Oxford or Cambridge will be worth about as much, if not more, than a 2:1 from a less prestigious establishment. Sometimes, it is not about your results, but the quality of the education you received. If you have a degree from a Russell Group university, that could put you in good stead. Emphasise this on your CV. That is a useful way of setting yourself apart from others especially in a competitive jobs market.

 

Focus on Your Degree Skills

Your overall degree grade is simply the average grade you received. Did your exams let you down? Were you particularly strong at project work, or practical work? Your CV should emphasise not just what you studied, where and your grade, but what you were particularly good at. By not mentioning that first class dissertation you could be selling yourself short if your 2:2 was entirely down to being ill for a long period, being poor at exams or an undiagnosed learning difficulty.

 

Thought About a Startup?

Now is a great time for start-ups. Since the economic downturn of 2008, many people have started their own business. This may be a path open to you if you have the determination, but it also means you will have a chance to shine at a smaller company. So long as you can demonstrate passion in the work, ability and competence, they will not care about the letters after your name or certificates. The degree experience will be more important than your result.