What to do if you don’t think traditional university courses are for you

If the idea of spending three or more years attending lectures, writing essays and nightclubbing multiple times a week doesn’t appeal to you, you’re definitely not alone.

For many people, the thought of following a conventional academic path feels uninspiring and perhaps overwhelming. If you’re looking for an education that prioritises practical skills, real-world experience, and a clear career path, alternatives to traditional university courses might be your perfect next step.

A vocational degree,  like those offered at the London School of Osteopathy (LSO), is a fantastic way to gain industry-specific knowledge and hands-on experience that directly prepares you for a rewarding profession. With studies focused on hands-on experience – not lecture halls and theoretical study – a vocational degree will allow you to step straight into a career as soon as you’re finished.

Let’s explore how this path could be a perfect fit for you.

Are you Looking for an Alternative to University Education?

Traditional university courses often focus heavily on theoretical knowledge, which doesn’t suit everyone. Some students thrive in a hands-on, practical learning environment or prefer courses with a direct link to their future careers. Traditional further education also often leaves students in a lot of debt, without the practical skills and experience needed to get a job in industry as soon as they’ve finished.

If you’re looking for:

• Practical experience that makes you job-ready,
• A degree without the intensity of everything that comes with a traditional university course,
• Flexible learning options that fit around your life, and
• A clear purpose, or ‘end goal’ for your studies,

Then a vocational degree could be the perfect next step after school or college. These alternatives are designed for people who want their education to serve as a stepping stone into a specific career, offering a blend of academic study and real-world experience.

Why Consider a Career in Osteopathy?

If you’re interested in studying a healthcare profession, or you’re wanting to start a career where you can improve people’s wellbeing, a degree in osteopathy could be perfect for you.

Osteopathy is a dynamic healthcare profession focused on improving patients’ well-being through physical treatment and holistic care. As an osteopath, you’ll work closely with patients to diagnose and treat physical imbalances in the body, helping them lead healthier lives.

Studying osteopathy at the LSO is an ideal choice for those passionate about health, anatomy, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Plus, it offers a more engaging alternative to the traditional university experience by combining theory with immediate clinical training and practice.

[Attend one of our open days to find out more]

Choosing a Vocational University Course

If you’re still looking to gain a degree, and interested in healthcare, a vocational course like our Masters of Osteopathy (MOst) can offer you unique advantages and opportunities that traditional academic routes often don’t. At the LSO, we understand that the pressure of socialising and drinking isn’t for everyone, which is why we support you to focus on your healthcare degree.

This includes:

Hands-On Learning

Students at LSO apply their knowledge in real-world settings. With access to our clinic in Bethnal Green, you’ll gain direct experience working with patients, developing both technical skills and confidence.

Career-Focused Education

Unlike traditional courses, vocational degrees are designed with a clear professional outcome in mind. By the time you graduate, you’ll be fully qualified to start practising as an osteopath, backed by accreditation from the General Osteopathic Council.

Flexibility and Inclusivity

At the LSO, you can tailor your studies to your lifestyle. Whether you’re balancing family responsibilities, a job, or other commitments, flexible full-time and part-time study options make it easier to pursue your goals. Many people study with us as an alternative to traditional university courses due to the flexibility we can offer.

Start a Rewarding Career in Osteopathy

If a traditional university course doesn’t appeal to you, vocational courses in healthcare can offer you a rewarding alternative that’s far more suited to your goals.

At LSO, we offer practical, career-focused education designed to prepare you for a successful career in healthcare. If you’re interested in learning more, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us or book an open day.