Is a degree still worth it in 2026 for someone who wants to work in tech?

[DarkEnergy]

I am 19 and trying to decide whether to go to university and study computer science or take an apprenticeship at a local tech company that has offered me a place. The university route means three years and roughly £27000 in tuition fees plus living costs. The apprenticeship pays £18000 in year one rising to 24,000 by year three and leads to a permanent position. My goal is to work in software development or potentially AI. What would you advise?

[SpinState52]

A computer science degree from a strong university still has advantages for specific paths: research, joining large tech companies that use degree screening as a filter, working in the US or other markets where credentials matter more, or pivoting into adjacent fields later. If those paths appeal to you the degree has genuine value. For most UK software development roles they do not

[IronWolf]

The apprenticeship is the better option for your specific situation based on what you have described. You have a concrete offer from a real company, you will be earning while learning, you will graduate with three years of industry experience on your CV, and you will have zero student debt. The degree advantage for software roles has shrunk significantly in 2026

[MurkyInlet]

The debt calculation is worth doing honestly. 27,000 in tuition plus three years of living costs at even a modest 10,000 per year is £57000 of debt. The apprenticeship route instead earns you approximately 63,000 over three years and leaves you debt-free. The financial difference between the two paths at age 22 is over £100000 and that gap takes many years to close

[Slay]

The self-teaching and portfolio route matters more than either formal option for software development specifically. Your GitHub profile, your side projects and your ability to solve real problems in an interview will be evaluated ahead of your educational credentials by most hiring managers at mid-sized tech companies. Neither a degree nor an apprenticeship substitutes for demonstrated ability

[Clever Erin]

Talk to the specific company offering the apprenticeship about what happens after the initial programme. Some apprenticeships lead directly to permanent senior roles with clear progression. Others are glorified internships with no guaranteed future. The quality of mentorship and the scope of real work you will do during the apprenticeship matters enormously

[CMPunk96]

One honest counter-argument for the degree: the social and intellectual experience of university at 19 has non-financial value that is hard to quantify. The exposure to diverse people, the time to explore ideas without commercial pressure and the structured learning environment are things some people value highly and do not get from entering work early. Only you know how much that matters to you