If you’re looking to gain a full undergraduate or master’s degree while you work, then degree apprenticeships could be the perfect option for you. Read on to find out more.

What Are Degree Apprenticeships?

Degree apprenticeships combine a university course with employment. They cover Level 6 and Level 7 apprenticeships. Degree apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular as they enable students to study at university without paying tuition fees, and earn a full salary at the same time.

Degree apprenticeships differ across the UK:

  • England and Wales both offer degree apprenticeships, however, the majority of options are currently available in England.
  • In Scotland, a degree apprenticeship is known as a Graduate Apprenticeship.
  • In Northern Ireland, higher-level apprenticeships (HLAs) are offered. These can provide qualifications up to Level 7 which is the equivalent of a master’s degree. However, the majority are at Level 5 which is equivalent to a foundation degree.

 

Who Are Degree Apprenticeships For?

Many students apply to university for the academic experience, choosing to study a subject they enjoy or have previously excelled in. They then use this time to discover what career paths are available to them. However, here at Developing a Student, we understand that there is no single student experience. Many young people want to go to university because they already have a career in mind and know what they need to do to get there.

In this case, degree apprenticeships are an excellent option. You’ll be able to get the qualification you need for the specific industry you want to pursue.

 

What Are The Benefits of a Degree Apprenticeship?

There are a variety of benefits to a degree apprenticeship. We’ll take a look at some of the main ones below:

 

Gain Real-Life Experience

Degree apprenticeships allow you to get ahead in your career through full-time employment. A common problem for many graduates is that they don’t have relevant work experience when applying for jobs. A degree apprenticeship will allow you to gain valuable work experience in your chosen industry, as well as build important hard and soft skills.

 

No Tuition Fees

As it’s an apprenticeship, your tuition fees will be funded for you so you can put all of your focus on your studies. Students apply for a degree apprenticeship through the employer. This means that with each different degree apprenticeship, you will know precisely what the role and course entail. Furthermore, applying through employers allows young people to apply for a range of university and employment options, as well as degree apprenticeships.

 

Earn a Salary

Studying part-time at university means that you’ll be working for the remainder of your day. You’ll typically spend 20% of your time studying and 80% at work. This will leave you with a full salary at the end of the month so you’ll still be able to afford the life you’ve become accustomed to.

 

Close the Skills Gap

Employers are currently struggling to find university leavers that have the necessary practical skills to do a job, on top of their academic ability. Degree apprentices are working to close this skills gap by co-designing programmes that equally prioritise knowledge and skill. Employers join up with universities to create courses which have a strong employability and academic focus. This means those graduating from a degree apprenticeship will be ready to go into their chosen industry.

 

Is a Degree Apprenticeship Right For Me?

Launched in 2015, degree apprenticeships are relatively new. Therefore, they aren’t always promoted to those students who are commonly encouraged towards university. Due to the many outdated stereotypes regarding apprenticeships, many people believe that they will leave young people less academically qualified.

While it is true that the lower-level apprenticeships have a stronger vocational focus, degree apprenticeships award students with an accredited university degree. This ensures that students have all the knowledge as well as the skills needed for their industry.

 

Applying for a Degree Apprenticeship

Due to the dual criteria of a vocational focus and rigorous academic training, there are fewer degree apprenticeships on offer than other lower-level apprenticeships. They are best suited to careers such as engineering, nursing, technology, and business.

As degree apprenticeships have become a more popular choice for young people studying for a degree qualification, more large employers and universities are offering high-quality degree apprenticeships. Some popular courses include:

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Central Lancashire
  • BSc Digital and Technology Solutions at Birkbeck, University of London
  • Chartered Legal Executive at Blackburn College, Manchester
  • The Royal Navy offer a variety of degree apprenticeships

 

Key Takeaways: Degree Apprenticeships

A degree apprenticeship is an excellent alternative to the traditional university route. By combining work with study, you’ll fast-track your way to success in your chosen career.

If you are interested in starting a degree apprenticeship, keep an eye on our jobs board where you can find a whole range of career opportunities. Developing a Student has tons of help and advice for students and graduates from information on qualifications to the best sectors for graduate employability.

Feel free to contact our team if you have any questions. And be sure to sign up for the Developing a Student newsletter for all the latest degree apprenticeship news and opportunities.