Degree Apprenticeships FAQs
Our new Engineering Degree Apprenticeship will allow you to combine work and study to earn while you learn. Our apprenticeship allows you to work towards a BEng degree in Product Design and Development Engineer. You will have the option to specialise in one of the following areas:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Batteries
- Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD)
Below are the answers to some of the most common questions about degree apprenticeships.
Application and entry requirements
How do I apply to a degree apprenticeship?
To apply for a degree apprenticeship, you must apply directly to the employer, rather than the university or training provider. You can find companies that are taking on apprentices on the Government’s Find an Apprenticeship platform and on UCAS.
The application process will likely involve submitting a CV, cover letter and application form. In your cover letter, you should demonstrate how you meet or exceed the criteria outlined in the job description. If you are successful, you will be invited to an interview. In the interview, the employer will ask questions about your skills and experiences and why you want to apply. Some application processes may also involve aptitude tests, exercises or assessment centres.
What qualifications do I need to apply for a degree apprenticeship?
You typically need a Level 3 qualification such as A Levels, a T Level or an advanced or a higher apprenticeship before completing a degree apprenticeship.
For our Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Product Design and Development Engineer, we require:
- C or 5 or above in GSCE Maths and English (or equivalent qualifications)
- An additional STEM subject GCSE at grade C or 5, or above
- Post-GCSE qualification in Engineering or relevant STEM subjects
- Minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points
- You must be employed in a relevant role and working in England
Can graduates do apprenticeships?
If you already have an undergraduate degree, you may be interested in a Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship, which is equivalent to a Master’s Degree.
When do degree apprenticeships open for applications?
Employers advertise degree apprenticeships throughout the year. There is no national deadline, like the UCAS deadline for university applications.
Can you do a degree apprenticeship after A Levels?
You can do a degree apprenticeship after A Levels. You must apply directly to the employer, rather than to the university or training provider.
Funding
Are degree apprenticeships free?
Degree apprenticeships are free to the apprentices. The employer is expected to pay the tuition fees. The employer usually receives funding for this from a government levy.
How much do degree apprenticeships pay?
Salaries for apprentices vary, depending on the employer and the location.
Will I still get a student loan with a degree apprenticeship?
Apprentices do not receive student loans. Their tuition fees are paid by their employer and they will receive a salary while completing their apprenticeship.
Timings and schedule
Will I have summer holidays off as a degree apprentice?
Apprentices do not typically have long summer, winter and spring breaks like university students. You would have a set number of annual leave days that you can take when you wish, subject to your employer’s approval.
How long is a degree apprenticeship programme?
Degree apprenticeships typically last between three and seven years. Our Level 6 Product Design and Development Engineer Apprenticeship is a four-year course.
How much time is spent at university?
Apprentices typically spend 20% of their time studying at a university, college or training provider. This may be one day a week, or it could be full-time for a week or several weeks. This is known as block-teaching.
Our Engineering degree apprentices will come to campus fortnightly, on Fridays, for in-person training. On-campus days include workshops, laboratories and drop-in sessions with tutors, skills coaches, and academics. Live training will take place online every other Friday.
Other questions on degree apprenticeships
Am I guaranteed a job after a degree apprenticeship?
To undertake a degree apprenticeship, you must be employed throughout. You would usually continue to be employed by the same company after completing your apprenticeship, but this depends on your employer.
What level are degree apprenticeships?
Degree apprenticeships can be Level 6 (equivalent to an undergraduate degree) or Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree).
How are degree apprenticeships assessed?
If you are keen to start or continue working but still want to upskill and gain a qualification while doing so, then you should consider a degree apprenticeship. If you are looking for more flexible study options or aren’t sure what career you want to pursue, a traditional degree may be more suitable. Look at all your options and consider which factors are most important to you.