Is Graduating With A 2.2 Bad? This is a likely question on the minds of graduates with a 2.2 degree or undergraduates in college. It is the desire of every student around the world to study their dream course, graduate with good grades and get a good job or make a name in whatever field. However, fate has it different for everyone considering various circumstances that pop up during one’s education.
This article will enlighten the implications of graduating with a 2.2 degree, the next step, and a couple of tips for a 2.2-degree holder, also some frequently asked questions.
Before diving into the above, let us briefly go over what CGPA and the classes of degree are.
The CGPA is also known as the Cumulative Grade Point Average is an educational grading system used to measure the overall academic performance of a student. This is done by the summation of the product of credit units and the score rating divided by the total number of units earned by the student.
Although the grading system of institutions differs depending on the country, it corresponds to the classification of degrees which are:
- The First-Class Honors (4.5-5.0)
- The Second-Class Upper Division (3.5-4.49)
- The Second-Class Lower Division (2.4-3.49)
- The Third Class (1.5-2.39)
- Pass (1.0-1.49)
- Fail (below 1.0)
What is a 2.2 degree and what does it mean to graduate with a 2.2 degree? Is it good or bad?
A Second-Class Lower degree is equivalent to 50-60% and is usually considered average. A lot of factors ranging from indiscipline on the student’s side to emotional instabilities and others play a big role in a student’s academic performance, hence it is important to note that the class of degree one graduates with does not fully reflect the intellectual capability and practical intelligence of the holder.
Now is a 2.2 bad? No, it isn’t but it isn’t a good or an excellent grade either. As much as one has to look on the bright side, one shouldn’t be oblivious of the downsides that come with graduating with a 2.2. Some of these downsides are that:
A 2.2 is often the minimum grade requirement for most employment opportunities or further education, hence, it puts one at a lesser chance of competing with numerous graduates with a higher degree. According to facts, graduating with a degree higher than 2.2 places one on a better pedestal when job hunting in some countries like Nigeria, where the rate of unemployment is higher.
It is also inevitable to be faced with discrimination when one graduate with a 2.2, however, this can be easily worked on, if one can prove that he/she has more skills to offer than just a degree. It is safe to say graduating with a 2.2 degree is not entirely bad, nevertheless, it doesn’t dispute the difficulties that come with it.
Job Opportunities and Chances in The Labour Market with A 2.2 Degree?
While it is true that employment opportunities for a 2.2 holder are less compared to higher degree holders, it however turns out to be that there are several job opportunities irrespective of one’s class of degree. Some of these include Copywriting, Technical engineering, Retail Management, Business Consultant, and so on.
A few UK companies like Jaguar Land Rover, Sky, Stage Coach, HMRC, and big companies like PwC employ graduates with 2.2 degrees. It might also interest you to know that the internet is steaming with a ton of legal income-generating offers like Freelancing, Affiliate Marketing, Content Marketing, and others, not to mention the option of being self-employed.
A 2.2 Degree in Resume
Graduating with a 2.2 degree isn’t defeat rather it’s time to up your game, especially if your goal is to secure employment in a company. Considering the competition and required standards, the following tips should get you there.
Change of Plans but not Goals
Yes, graduating with a 2.2 was not the initial plan but it shouldn’t be a barrier to accomplishing your goals; One just needs to broaden one’s scope and make up your mind to attain your goals regardless.
Work on Yourself and Learn New Skills
Every person regardless of his/her class of degree aims to acquire more knowledge to move with global standards, hence, nothing is stopping a 2.2-degree holder from doing the same too. Learn a new skill and sharpen the ones you’ve learned.
Get Certifications
It is important to note that most if not all employers, look out for Skills and Experience before your degree. This makes the CV catchy, it is therefore advised to take online courses and get a certification, apply for Volunteer work that goes in line with your skill; Taking international examinations like CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) or ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) puts one at an edge over others and increases one’s chances of employment.
Apply for a Postgraduate Degree
Wider Range of Industries and Roles
Build Your Network and so on
Some ways to build a career with a 2.2 degree include exploring smaller businesses, changing of mindset, expanding one’s work experience, refining one’s professional skills, and working on one’s network by using social media platforms like LinkedIn.
Conclusion
In Conclusion, graduating with a 2.2 degree is not in itself bad, though it would be honest to say it isn’t a good grade because it doesn’t reflect academic excellence, however, there are various testimonies of people who graduated with a 2.2 but worked their paths to success.
Although, exams are not a true test of knowledge if one could perform better in college and get excellent grades, why sabotage your future or dream by aiming for the least. It is important to strive to be the best in all endeavors.
FAQ
Can I Get A Job with A 2.2 degree?
Yes, one can get a good graduate job with a 2.2 degree. Although some employers set a minimum degree classification, a few employers that don’t in the UK include Babcock International Group, Atkins, BAE Systems, HMRC e.t.c. Several small businesses also employ 2.2 graduates.
Can I Apply for A Job That Requires A 2.1 With a 2.2 Degree?
Yes, if you have a good CV and have improved your skills. It is important to note that every employer looks out for skill, experience, and competence. However, if the company places minimum requirements without exceptions, you could explore other options.
Are Some Careers Harder to Get into With A 2.2 Degree?
Careers in Finance and Law may have stricter entry requirements than other sectors, but taking examinations like ICAN certainly boosts one’s qualifications.
Can One Apply For A Master’s Degree With A 2.2 Degree?
Yes, though some universities and courses require a minimum of 2.1 and above, a few UK universities like the University of Wolverhampton, University of Kent, University of Westminster, and others are more lenient with their entry requirements. Also, in Nigeria, a few like the University of Jos, Ambrose Alli University, Covenant University, etc. accept a second-class lower degree. It might interest you to know that one can be considered for master’s courses without having formal school training, just based on your expertise and years of experience.
