Choosing University Subjects: Personal Interest vs Useful Fields

Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Annotated response

10 correction notes

Showing 10 correction notes.

Some argue that university students should have the freedom to study whatever they like, while others believe that , such as science and technology, should be allowed due to their importance for the future. students should be able to choose their preferred fields of study. This essay will discuss both perspectives .

To begin with, to science and technology argue that these subjects are essential for economic growth and job security. With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy, professionals in these fields are in high demand. For instance, , which focus heavily on technological education, . Moreover, studying subjects like engineering or computer science increases employability, well-paying jobs upon graduation.

On the other hand, allowing students to study whatever they enjoy fosters creativity, innovation, and a well-rounded society. The arts, humanities, and social sciences culture, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Take history, for example—understanding past events helps societies avoid repeating mistakes. Similarly, literature enhances communication skills, which are valuable in any profession. If students are forced into subjects they have no interest in, , leading to an unfulfilled workforce.

In conclusion, while science and technology subjects contribute significantly to economic growth and job stability, restricting university education to only these areas would be shortsighted. A balanced society requires expertise in diverse fields. Therefore, I believe that students subjects that align with their interests and strengths, as passion often leads to success.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

The essay discusses both views and maintains a clear preference for students choosing their subjects. Its language is precise and its examples connect education with economic, cultural and personal benefits. The claim that technical degrees ensure well-paid jobs needs qualification, while the country example would be stronger with a clearer explanation of how education contributes to growth.

IELTS criteria

How each score was decided

Task Response

8.0

Both views are developed with a clear preference for freedom of choice, supported by relevant educational and economic examples. The statement that technical degrees ensure well-paid employment is too absolute, and the country example could explain the connection between education and growth more precisely.

Coherence and Cohesion

7.5

Paragraphing is logical and cohesive devices are used skillfully and mostly unobtrusively, though progression within paragraphs is competent rather than fully extended.

Lexical Resource

8.0

A wide range of precise, natural vocabulary is used with flexibility, including collocations like 'fosters creativity' and 'unfulfilled workforce', with only rare imprecision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0

A variety of complex structures, including conditionals and relative clauses, is used flexibly and accurately with only minor slips.