What is a Degree Apprenticeship?
A degree apprenticeship is a full-time job at a company; however, you must spend at least 20% of your working hours on training for your degree. You therefore graduate with a BSc in addition to a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship qualification.
Many universities partner directly with employers to offer degree apprenticeships, usually following one of two main teaching models:
Block Release
Apprentices spend a certain number of weeks per year dedicated entirely to study (at least 20%).
For example:
- 4 weeks on block release at university
- Followed by 16 weeks working Monday to Friday at their company
Day Release
Apprentices spend a specific day each week at university or studying online.
For example:
- Monday to Thursday working
- Friday spent attending lectures online or in person
During university holidays, apprentices may still be working. They are still allocated a minimum of 20% personal development time each week, which may involve project-based or tutorial-based learning.
Benefits of a Degree Apprenticeship
As a degree apprentice, you are treated like a normal employee, giving you access to a wide range of benefits and a salary.
Salary
- Year 1 salary typically ranges between £21,000 and £35,000
- Average starting salary is around £23,500
- Annual increases of approximately £1,000–£2,000
Bonuses
- Exam and performance-based bonuses
- Usually between £800 and £4,000 per year
- Varies significantly by industry
Holiday
- Minimum 20 days plus bank holidays
- Many employers offer 25–30 days
- Some allow purchasing additional leave
- Example total: 25 days + 5 purchased + 9 public holidays = 39 days
Transport
- Free or subsidised transport to work
- Travel to university or client sites often covered
Work Experience
- Gain 3–5 years of full-time experience
- Many apprentices receive a permanent job offer after completion
Tuition-Free Degree
- Fully funded by the employer and apprenticeship levy
- Graduate with no student loan debt, compared to typical £50,000–£60,000 university debt
Accommodation
- Some employers cover accommodation during block release
- HR may support relocation logistics
Food & Drink
- Subsidised food and drinks in some workplaces
Networking & Events
- Opportunities to attend and lead events, expanding professional networks
Employee Benefits Package
- Health insurance
- Pension schemes
- Life insurance
- Share discount plans (often 10–20%)
- Everyday discount schemes
- Free home office equipment
Professional Development Budget
- Funding for certifications or company-wide training programmes
Mentorship
- Continuous 1-to-1 support from:
- A buddy
- A senior colleague
- University staff
Volunteering
- Some companies provide paid volunteering days
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Drawbacks of a Degree Apprenticeship
Despite the strong benefits, there are commonly reported downsides:
Intense Workload
Balancing a full-time job with university commitments can be demanding.
Less Flexibility to Change Career Path
Switching fields (e.g. from investment banking to cybersecurity) is harder than at university.
Slower Social Life
Apprentices miss out on long holidays and weekday nightlife, although weekends remain free.
Extremely Competitive Entry Requirements
- Thousands of applicants per role
- Acceptance rates around 0.7%
- However, unlike UCAS limits, you may apply to as many apprenticeships as you want.
Relocation
You must move where the employer requires and manage tenancy agreements.
Paying for Exam Resits
Many programmes require apprentices to cover resit fees themselves.
Why Many Students Are Choosing Degree Apprenticeships
With apprentices sharing their experiences across LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, more students are exploring this pathway that promises a salary of £25k+ alongside a degree.
Popular fields offering strong apprenticeship pathways include:
-
Investment Banking & Financial Services
(e.g. JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs) -
Technology, Software Engineering & Cyber
(e.g. Amazon, Accenture, IBM) -
Engineering
(e.g. Airbus, BAE Systems, Siemens, JLR, Rolls-Royce, British Airways) -
Law
(e.g. Osbourne Clarke)
For individuals who already know their career direction, degree apprenticeships can be highly compelling.
When University Might Still Be the Better Option
Some students prefer university because broader degrees keep multiple pathways open:
- Computer Science → software engineering, cybersecurity, IT, AI, machine learning, game development, fintech
- Economics → investment banking, financial services, consulting
- Mechanical Engineering → aerospace, transport, construction, finance
Ultimately, the best choice depends on alignment with long-term goals and preferred lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
A degree apprenticeship suits individuals who want to:
- Accelerate their career
- Build financial independence early
- Gain hands-on industry experience
It rewards discipline, consistency and ambition.
University, on the other hand, offers:
- Greater freedom
- Broader exploration
- A more traditional academic and social experience
Students still discovering their interests, or planning postgraduate specialisation, may find university more suitable.