GAH! Why do ALL these threads end up in "Modular Vs Integrated". Clearly the environment is getting tougher. Clearly integrated is more expensive.
However, I've said it before and I'll say it again, spending LESS money [when you're talking five figures regardless of how you tackle it] is ONLY of any benefit at all IF you can get a job at the end.
Whilst there are many, many success stories of those that have gone through the modular route, there are huge, huge numbers of mod students who are still awaiting that ellusive first job. You could go so far as to say that most of those still looking are mod (it certainly seems that way on this board). Therefore, one could consider that a viable alternative to "you must be mad to consider an integrated course in the current environment" is "you must be mad to do anything which will potentially reduce your chances of getting a job in a more competitive environment".
If you have the money, willpower and go into it with your eyes open, an integrated course may well help your chances. Modular may cost less, but it's still not exactly cheap and if the the "cost" includes reducing your saleability to a hirers market, then is it really a good deal?
Let's cut the rubbish....both routes are great options, but both have significant drawbacks. I just wish the constant "my route is right for EVERYONE" brigade would *** off and try and provide nothing more than impartial advice. I'm not trying to do down the Mod route, I think it's a great option and if it DOES die, then that's a real shame. Just people should assess all options open to them and decide based on facts, not "Modular is better than integrated...." or vice versa