There is much debate as to whether tertiary education should be paid for by the individual. Over the last ten to twenty years there has been an increase in the number of individuals attending universities within Australia. The total enrolment numbers have almost doubled between the period of 1982 and 1994. This may be due to the perceived benefits of holding a diploma or certificate in a particular field. Many employers in the community need perso

nnel who are trained in particular areas of expertise. This incorporates a strengthened and highly productive skills base into the workforce.

Fees, however, can often hinder one’s decision to attend university. In 1987, universities introduced an up front fee; no longer would they offer free tuition . These fees would represent 36% of university revenue. Although these fees may be necessary for the survival of tertiary establishments, they can often affect the student despite their abilities, potentialities and desires to further their education. Many are often discouraged by the cost involved with attending a university. These costs inhibit many from reaching their potential. Those from a low socio-economic background would face difficulty in satisfying these payments. Numerous groups in society are already disadvantaged in terms of their ability to access and participate in higher learning.

Many potential students consider enrolment into a university as a means to expand their professional knowledge. In a society where qualifications are essential in many professions, a certificate held in a chosen trade is indispensable. One can move upwards in their particular occupation by promotion to a more skilled position; alternatively, one can choose to change their career path completely. In either circumstance, such qualifications are essential to enter such practices as law, teaching and psychology. These practices are, of course, only a minor fraction of the jobs requiring qualifications.

It is not unusual for a student to sell his/her assets in order to raise funds for university. Unless the student has a sufficient accumu

Some topics in this essay:
, Contribution Scheme, School Certificate, Youth Allowance, Social Security, tertiary education, potential students, attending university, degree chosen, qualifications essential, university means,