Cyber Security Analyst, Software Engineer, Chartered Manager – who would have thought that one day apprenticeships would be designed around these roles and result in a full degree qualification?
Apprenticeships have come a long way. The times when apprentices were hired by craftsmen to pass on manual skilled trades are no more. Today apprenticeships are available in every industry sector and provide exciting, high quality options in all kinds of careers.
You might be surprised at just how many degree apprenticeship opportunities there are, and the exciting range of benefits they can offer you. Find out more in this handy, at-a-glance guide…
What is a degree apprenticeship?
It’s a full-time, paid job with a structured development and education programme. A degree apprenticeship offers a mixture of on- and off-the-job training that gives you the skills needed to get ahead in your chosen career and results in a full degree-level qualification.
What does a degree apprenticeship offer?
- An exciting and realistic alternative to university
- You earn while you learn
- You get time to study for a nationally recognised degree-level qualification
- You get paid holidays and other benefits of being an employee
- You have the support of a mentor
- If you’re new to the world of work, you can learn invaluable transferable skills like dealing with a wide range of people, making presentations and teamworking
Why do a higher or degree apprenticeship?
- A chance to get ahead – you’ll be starting your career three or four years ahead of your peers who go to university.
- So much choice – there are a wide range of higher and degree level apprenticeships available.
- It’s an opportunity to gain exciting new skills and move up the ladder – your employer may be looking to develop leaders and managers, so the apprenticeship could help you move to the next stage in your career.
- No tuition fees for you to pay – people studying a full time degree course at university can pay around £9,000 a year in tuition fees alone, plus living and accommodation fees etc. With an apprenticeship, you’ll actually earn while you learn.
How do I apply for a degree apprenticeship?
Did you know that apprenticeships aren’t just for new hires? If you’re currently in work, now’s the time to talk to your employer to see what they offer. We’d recommend starting with your line manager and perhaps also talking to HR.
If you’re not in work, or are interested in an apprenticeship within a different organisation, visit www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship. There are up to 28,000 apprenticeship vacancies on the site at any one time.
Myth busting
43% of all new apprentices in 2015/16 were aged 25+. Of these, 11% were over 60.1
Myth 2: Apprentices are poorly paid
This is common concern is generally untrue. Employers are on the look-out for the best candidates and often willing to pay more to ensure they get top talent, particularly for degree apprenticeships.
Myth 3: They’re only for entry level jobs
Degree apprenticeships provide a real opportunity to upskill and gain what you need to progress into a more senior role.