The purpose of an undergraduate education
Abstract
Expectations associated with attaining an undergraduate degree have changed drastically over the last decade; society as a whole is increasingly questioning the purpose of an undergraduate degree. The rise of AI and associated disruptions to entry-level employment have furthered these challenges. While an undergraduate degree is associated with acquiring disciplinary knowledge, many career paths do not follow within that discipline. Undergraduate degrees also facilitate the acquisition of transferable skills and self-development, as well as a enhance civic understanding. Here I detail the range of benefits associated with an undergraduate education, including recommendations for reframing the value of an undergraduate degree.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Higher Education and Employability
University Challenges and Reforms
Higher Education Research Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- The Cognitive Psychology Bulletin
- Volume
- 1
- Issue
- 11
- Pages
- 54–62
- Publication date
- 9 February 2026
- Language
- EN