Isn't university more prestigious? Don't their graduates get paid more? The answer is yes. And no.What's the difference between a polytechnic and a university? View the InfographicA hot question if you want to make sure you, or Junior, get the best education and job outcomes available. First up, some basic facts:- There are 18 polytechnics and institutes of technology in New Zealand and 3 wanangas. Polytechnics offer certificates, diplomas, degrees and, in some instances, post-graduate study.- There are 8 universities. Universities offer degrees and post-graduate studyIsn't polytech for dummies?No way! This archaic perception is a hangover from an elitest era where the 'upper class' became doctors and the 'lower class' became tradesmen. These days modern polytechnics have diverse offerings catering to a wide range of professions.While the traditional courses like automotive and chef training are still there, so are the arts, engineering, science, business and degree level study. Everyone works in different ways and sometimes polytechnic environments with their smaller class sizes and hands-on learning style, suit learners better.Learning by doingOne of the main differences between polytechnics and universities is the amount of practical vs theory. Because polytechs used to be trades focused, they have a strong background on how to bring "learning by doing" into the classroom. That doesn't mean you don't have to learn your theory as well - it just means you get the best of both worlds so that when you go to apply for jobs you've got hands-on, practical knowledge of what the job involves.Who earns more - university graduates or polytechnic graduates?The answer in short is - it depends on what you study. Bachelor of Arts graduates for example, may start out on $40k a year in their first job while - due to the current skill shortage - Quantity Surveying graduates can expect a starting salary of up to $70k a year.Industry experienceIf you'd like to get hands-on, practical experience in the field you'll be working in then check out these stats:In 2014 just over 75% of Bay of Plenty Polytechnic students were involved in industry placements in a wide range of programmes. University undergraduate industry placements are roughly 20%.Industry work placements give students real world experience while they study and it helps them build valuable networks. This also ensures graduate skills are closely aligned with what industry wants.Tutor to student ratioPolytechnics tend to have much smaller class sizes than universities. If you like the idea of a big lecture with possibly hundreds of students then university might be your thing. If you prefer the idea of smaller class sizes and more tutor contact then a polytechnic will suit you better.Working while you study - moneyStudent debt is a hot topic with New Zealand learners more than $14 billion in the red. For most students, study comes first but they still have to work one, two or even three jobs to get by. These are traditionally low paid jobs in areas like fast-food or retail. It's a fact that a lot of students leave study with large student loans, despite working.Polytechnics offer a range of flexible learning options meaning some students are able to work full-time while upskilling. This is especially true for people wanting to enhance their management skills and knowledge. Other students are employed as apprentices (e.g. automotive, electrical, carpentry) and 'earn while they learn'.In short, do your homework before committing to any kind of study. Check the career outcomes, consider your learning style and never be afraid to ask questions. Ask people already in the profession how they got there. Take a tour somewhere you want to study. Call an employer and ask what sort of qualifications they like to see - you might find they are more interested in seeing you can commit to a qualification and complete it, rather than where you got it from.~ The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one ~Malcolm Forbes
