# PTE Write Essay #17: Purpose of Higher Education

Write Essay #17 - Level 2 - Feeds Writing

> You have 20 minutes to plan, write and check an essay on the topic below. Write 200-300 words and answer the question exactly as it is asked.

Some people believe that the sole aim of higher education is to make people ready for employment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Discuss.

## Answer

Many people now view university mainly as a route to a good job, and some even claim that preparing students for employment is its only purpose. While I accept that career preparation is an important aim, I largely disagree that it is the sole aim of higher education.

One key purpose of higher education is to develop independent and critical thinking. University courses teach students to question evidence, compare arguments and form their own conclusions. For example, a history student who analyzes conflicting accounts of a war learns to identify bias. This skill is equally useful when evaluating news, political claims or advertising. Such abilities benefit graduates as citizens and individuals, not only as employees. Students also encounter literature, philosophy and science that can enrich their lives long after graduation.

Universities also exist to advance knowledge and serve society as a whole. Much of the research that leads to new medicines, cleaner energy or a better understanding of the past takes place in university laboratories and libraries. A doctoral student studying an ancient language, for instance, may never enter a typical job market. Yet her work preserves cultural knowledge for future generations. Reducing higher education to job training would neglect this vital role. Many important discoveries began as research with no obvious commercial purpose.

In conclusion, although employment is an important outcome of higher education, I disagree that it is its only aim. Universities should also develop critical thinkers and expand human knowledge, which benefits society far beyond the workplace.

## Explanation

A high-scoring response acknowledges the complexity of the prompt by addressing both the vocational and the academic or personal development aspects of university studies. It provides a clear thesis statement and supports arguments with logical reasoning and relevant examples.

## Hints

- Consider whether universities serve society by fostering critical thinking and research, not just by training workers.
- Structure your essay with an introduction, two body paragraphs covering different viewpoints, and a balanced conclusion.

[Practise this question with the exam timer](https://testmigo.com/pte/practice/write-essay/purpose-of-higher-education) - [All Write Essay questions](https://testmigo.com/pte/practice/write-essay)