Task 2 model answer 2: Fines for not completing a university course

Of the number of undergraduates that begin a course of tertiary study, there is a percentage of those that do not finish the course, but the argument that they should therefore be financially penalised is riddled with potential problems.

It needs to be considered first of all what motivated the student to leave their studies before they have graduated. If the decision was made due to financial constraints, then clearly adding an additional fine is simply adding to the pressure. For example, there are many older people who decide to go back to university but may already have a mortgage and dependent children, and may consequently find that their income is insufficient to cover their needs.

Moreover, rather than attempting to make the student pay, it might be better to consider whether the student was actually given sufficient support during their studies. There are situations where the student may feel that they are not following the course and are unable to complete the required assignments, and therefore leave the course. Retention rates may be improved if there were personal tutors on hand to offer advice to those students who are losing confidence in their ability to remain on the course.

On the other hand, there is an argument that the risk of a penalty would dissuade people from starting courses that they were not particularly motivated to complete in the first place.

In conclusion, therefore, although the idea of being charged for non completion of a course would perhaps reduce the number of uncommitted enrolments, it is not an advisable solution for genuine students.