What is a Degree Apprenticeship?

Degree apprenticeships are rapidly transforming the landscape of higher education and professional development, offering a compelling alternative to traditional university routes.  

With over 50,000 apprentices now participating in these degree apprenticeships annually, it's clear that this innovative approach to learning is gaining significant traction. 

This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of degree apprenticeships, covering everything apprentice employers and employees need to know about degree apprenticeships, from how they can help career progression to improving workplace competence.  

What are degree apprenticeships? 

Degree apprenticeships offer a unique blend of higher education and practical work experience, just like any other apprenticeship, except the qualification level is higher.  

Essentially, it's a job where the apprentice also studies, with their employer and a university or college working together to provide training.  

These programmes are available across a wide range of sectors, making them an increasingly popular pathway for those seeking a practical and financially viable route to a degree. 

What does a degree apprenticeship involve? 

The apprentice spends the majority of their time within a professional work environment, gaining practical, on-the-job experience. However, the apprentice must dedicate a minimum of 20% of their time to off-the-job learning, which typically involves attending university or college sessions, and personal study time. The apprentice will also undergo end point assessments, to ensure they have acquired the required skills. 

Who funds degree apprenticeships? 

The government funds the training portion of a degree apprenticeship. The government funding is through the apprenticeship levy, which is a tax paid by large employers and used to fund training.  

Employers are responsible for covering the apprentice's salary and may have to contribute a small portion towards the tuition fees if they don’t pay levy tax. Some universities and colleges may contribute to the overall cost. Therefore, the financial burden is generally shared, making degree apprenticeships a more accessible and affordable route to higher education. 

Learn more: Apprenticeship Funding Eligibility & Rules Simplified for Employers 

What qualification do you get after a degree apprenticeship? 

Upon successful completion of a degree apprenticeship, the apprentice earns a full bachelor's or master's degree, just like students who follow a traditional university route.  This qualification is awarded by the partnering university or higher education institution and holds the same academic recognition. 

What level is a degree apprenticeship​? 

Degree apprenticeships operate at levels 6 and 7 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in England. Level 6 corresponds to a bachelor's degree, while level 7 corresponds to a master's degree. 

The pros and cons of degree apprenticeships for employers 

The benefits of degree apprenticeships 

• Building a Skilled Workforce: Degree apprenticeships allow employers to develop talent with the precise skills needed for their industry and specific roles. This ensures a workforce that is immediately productive and aligned with company goals. 

• Cost-Effective Talent Acquisition: By utilising the apprenticeship levy, employers can significantly reduce the costs associated with recruiting and training new staff. This provides a financially efficient way to address skills gaps. 

• Increased Employee Retention: Investing in an employee's education and career development fosters loyalty and commitment. Apprentices are more likely to stay with the company after completing their programme, reducing turnover costs. 

• Enhanced Company Culture: Employers can instil their company's values and practices from the start, creating a workforce that is deeply integrated into the organisation's culture. 

• Future-Proofing the Business: Degree apprenticeships enable employers to address future skills shortages by developing a pipeline of qualified professionals. This ensures the company remains competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing market. 

The drawbacks of degree apprenticeships 

• Time and Resource Commitment: Requires significant investment in training and mentoring. 

• Potential Loss of Apprentice: Risk of losing the apprentice after qualification due to increased marketability, however, studies show companies that invest in employee skills are 98% more likely to retain employees. 

• Administrative Burden: Managing academic commitments alongside work responsibilities can be demanding. 

• Short-Term Productivity Impact: Training time may temporarily affect productivity. 

• Planning and Flexibility: Requires careful planning and flexibility to accommodate academic schedules. 

The overarching benefit for employers engaging in degree apprenticeships lies in the strategic development of a highly skilled and loyal workforce. By investing in apprentices, companies gain the ability to shape talent to their specific needs, ensuring a pipeline of future leaders who are deeply embedded in the company culture.  

This proactive approach to talent acquisition addresses skills gaps and future proofs the business, fostering innovation and long-term growth. The return on investment extends beyond immediate productivity gains, creating a sustainable model for workforce development that strengthens the company's competitive edge. 

University degree vs a degree apprenticeship 

Not sure whether to do an apprenticeship or a degree? Explore reasons to help you come to a decision that suits you.  

University degree 

A traditional university degree provides an immersive academic experience, when you gain deep theoretical knowledge and allow for exploration across a wide range of subjects.  

Students benefit from extensive campus resources, a vibrant social life, and the flexibility to pursue diverse academic interests. However, this path often leads to significant student debt and limited practical work experience, requiring graduates to navigate a competitive job market post-graduation. 

Degree apprenticeship 

In contrast, a degree apprenticeship combines academic style learning with professional, on-the-job experience. Apprentices earn a salary while studying, gain free funding for their training, avoid substantial student debt, and gain practical skills that directly translate to workplace success.  

This pathway provides enhanced employability, valuable industry connections, and the potential for career progression within the sponsoring company. While requiring a demanding schedule, the degree apprenticeship offers a financially sound route to a full degree, making it a highly attractive option for those seeking to launch their career while simultaneously gaining a recognised qualification. 

Find out more about the pros and cons of apprenticeships vs university here. 

Can you do a degree apprenticeship if you already have a degree​? 

Yes, it is possible to undertake a degree apprenticeship even with an existing degree, though with certain stipulations. Specifically: 

Bachelor's degree apprenticeships (Level 6): 

You can generally pursue a bachelor's degree apprenticeship if it's in a field significantly different from your existing bachelor's degree. The core principle is that the apprenticeship should offer substantial new learning and skill development. 

Master's degree apprenticeships (Level 7): 

For those who already have a bachelor's degree, a master's degree apprenticeship provides an excellent avenue for further specialised learning. In this case, it is more acceptable to undertake a master’s degree apprenticeship within the same field of your existing bachelor's degree. 

How will you be assessed during a degree apprenticeship? 

The apprentice's assessment during a degree apprenticeship involves a combination of academic and workplace evaluations. The apprentice undergoes ongoing assessments from the university or college, which may include assignments, presentations, and examinations, depending on the course subject. The employer also contributes through workplace performance reviews.  

Finally, the apprentice completes an end-point assessment (EPA) to demonstrate competency, which, in some cases, aligns with the final degree assessments. The specific assessment methods are determined through collaboration between the university or college and the employer. 

How to get a degree apprenticeship 

Firstly, it's crucial to maintain a constant lookout for employers advertising these opportunities, as they are advertised year-round. However, the competition can be super high, and typically degree apprenticeships are offered to more mature ages. 

However, if you've secured employment in a company of interest, don't hesitate to initiate a conversation with your employer about degree apprenticeships. Many employers are receptive to upskilling their workforce and may be willing to explore this option.  

However, if you're young and struggling to find employment due to a lack of skills, consider pursuing a Level 3 apprenticeship as a stepping stone. Completing a Level 3 apprenticeship can significantly enhance your skills and experience, making you a more attractive candidate for a degree apprenticeship with the same employer upon graduation.  

Degree apprenticeship entry requirements 

Although entry requirements vary per course, generally they are:  

• 112–120 UCAS Tariff points from 3 A levels (or equivalent). 

• At least 2 GCSEs at Grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English and Mathematics. 

• Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Mathematics are accepted as alternatives to GCSEs. 

• Provide evidence of previous qualifications (including GCSEs) before starting. 

When do degree apprenticeships applications open? 

Unlike traditional university applications, which follow a fixed cycle, degree apprenticeship positions are advertised by employers on a rolling basis throughout the year. 

Choose Total People to upskill your employees with degree apprenticeships 

Upskill your workforce with Total People's degree apprenticeships. As a leading apprenticeship provider in the North, with 30 years of experience, we offer unparalleled support and connections to industry leaders. Our team of highly experienced tutors delivers tailored apprenticeships designed to meet the specific needs of your business.  

Choose Total People to unlock the potential of your employees through degree apprenticeships. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you achieve your upskilling goals.