Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

A higher or degree apprenticeship is a "real job" where you will study towards a higher (level 4 & 5) or degree (level 6) qualification whilst working in the relevant industry. It is an alternative to university and suitable for individuals who would prefer to learn on the job and study part-time alongside work. It is not an easy option and it's worth researching properly before deciding on this route. 

UCAS is a good place to start to find out more about higher and degree apprenticeships. They have lots of information about higher and degree apprenticeships to help you decide whether an apprenticeship is right for you. 

Have a look at the Complete Guide to Degree Apprenticeships to find out if you have what it takes to be an apprentice. 

Higher Horizons have produced this informative presentation about higher and degree apprenticeships - access it here

Amazing Apprenticeships have produced an interactive workbook which you can work your way through in your own time. View it via the link above or go to the Amazing Apprenticeships website to download your copy. 

There's no fixed period for applying for a degree apprenticeship unlike the university application process. Some employers may start their recruitment processes in January or February for an August or September start date, but larger organisations will start advertising their positions from the previous autumn onwards whilst smaller companies may wait until spring.  If you are interested in apprenticeships sign up on the National Apprenticeship Website for alerts. 

Amazing Apprenticeships are a fabulous source of information about apprenticeships and twice yearly they produce a list of all the higher and degree apprenticeship vacancies available. The Oct 2025 list is here, with the next one due in Jan 2026. 

You can also search for higher and degree apprenticeships directly with employers if they have a careers website. Usually employers will have a section on their website dedicated to apprenticeships, so if you know the sector you would like to work in and the employer you would like to work for, you can check directly with them to see if they have any apprenticeship vacancies. We'll also list any vacancies on The Job Shop. 

You can also look for apprenticeship vacancies on the National Apprenticeship Website - filter for Degree or Higher Apprenticeships. 

Depending on the vacancy, you may be asked to send a CV and covering letter or you may be asked to complete an application form. As an apprenticeship is a real job, you will be interviewed and the employer will be assessing you for your suitability to the job, as well as for your ability to complete the apprenticeship.

Employers advertise degree apprenticeships throughout the year and there is no application cycle like there is with university. The vacancy will state when the application deadline is, and when the apprenticeship is due to start. 

See below for some information from Amazing Apprenticeships about how to put together a CV and covering letter:

• CV tips 

• Covering letter

Amazing Apprenticeships have also produced this handy step by step guide to applying for an apprenticeship.

If you need any help with applying for apprenticeships, please come and see a member of the careers team.