Apprenticeships FAQs

A degree apprenticeship is a work-based learning program that allows individuals to earn a full bachelor's or master's degree while gaining practical experience in the workplace. As an apprentice you would usually split your time between working for your employer and studying at Bournemouth University.

For you, the apprentice, it is free, plus you will earn a wage whilst undertaking it. Some costs may occur like travel and uniforms, but you will always be informed of these extra costs before you start the course.

In the UK, degree apprenticeships are often funded by employer contributions and government funding. Employers typically cover the cost of the apprentice's salary and training, including tuition fees, while the government may provide additional financial incentives or subsidies to support the program.

Apprentices spend most of their time working for an employer. You would receive training and practical experience at work whilst also attending university or college part-time to complete academic coursework related to your degree program.

Apprenticeships typically last between 18 months to six years, depending on the level of the apprenticeship and the chosen field of study.

To be eligible for an apprenticeship you must have the right to work in the UK and be employed in a suitable role which is based in England.

Other eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific apprenticeship program and the requirements set by the employer and university. Generally, individuals aged 16 or over can apply for an apprenticeship, with no upper age limit. Most degree apprenticeships require candidates to have a certain level of qualifications, such as A-levels or equivalent vocational qualifications.

You will need to look over the course requirements on our course search pages to check if you are eligible for specific apprenticeships.

Degree apprenticeships offer several benefits, including:

• Earning a salary while studying
• Gaining practical work experience
• Graduating with a recognised degree qualification
• Developing industry-specific skills and knowledge
• No student loan debt
• Enhancing employability and career prospects.

Degree apprenticeships typically involve continuous assessment throughout the program, including coursework, exams, practical assessments, and workplace evaluations. It is a more practical way of learning which might lend itself to those who prefer a more hands-on approach to education.

At the end of the apprenticeship training period, you must complete an end-point assessment, which is designed to test your competence and readiness to work in your chosen field.

Degree apprenticeships are available in a wide range of subjects and industries, including business, engineering, healthcare, digital technology, construction, and more. However, the availability of specific apprenticeship programs may vary depending on employer demand and university partnerships.

At Bournemouth University, we currently offer degree apprenticeships mainly in health care and engineering, but more are in development. You can find all of our apprenticeship courses on our website.

If you are already employed in a suitable role, you can see what apprenticeships are available by visiting the government’s Apprenticeship website. Once you have found a suitable apprenticeship programme you should talk to your employer about agreeing to support you.

If you are not currently employed in a suitable role, you can search for degree apprenticeship opportunities on various online platforms, including employer career pages such as the NHS as well as UCAS.

Once you find a suitable apprenticeship opportunity you should apply directly to the employer. It would feel more like a job interview, they will ask you how suitable you were for the role based on our previous work and life experiences and qualifications.

In most cases, if you already hold a degree in a similar subject area you are not eligible for a degree apprenticeship at the same level. However, there may be opportunities to pursue higher-level apprenticeships, such as master's degree apprenticeships, in a different subject or industry.

Degree apprentices receive support from their employer and the university or college throughout the apprenticeship programme. This support will include mentorship, guidance from tutors, access to learning resources, and assistance with career development and progression. You can also access support with your academic writing and mathematics skills if you have been out of education for a while.

At BU you are the same as any student and therefore have access to our amazing facilities, our careers team and networking events, wellbeing teams and our Student Union.

If you normally work more than 30 hours a week, your employer must agree to give you a minimum average of 6 paid hours a week to devote to your apprenticeship studies. These hours are known as your ‘off-the-job’ allowance because they take you away from your normal job role and allow you to study towards your apprenticeship. Some of these hours will be spent with BU in lectures and seminars and some spent writing assignments, revising for assessments or developing your new skills and knowledge in your workplace.

If you work less than 30 hours you are still entitled to off-the-job hours, but the amount may need to be negotiated with your employer and your programme extended to ensure you receive sufficient training.

Your employer must also agree to attend regular progress meetings and provide you with opportunities to practice the new knowledge and skills that you are learning on your apprenticeship programme.

Having a good understanding of English and Math's is often essential for success in both the academic and practical aspects of the apprenticeship.

The specific entry requirements for degree apprenticeships can vary depending on the programme, employer, and university or training provider. However, in general, most degree apprenticeships do require applicants to have at least a minimum level of English and Maths qualifications, typically equivalent to GCSEs (or their approved equivalents) at grade C/4 or above.

The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) who regulate the delivery of apprenticeships publish a list of alternative qualifications accepted in place of GCSEs in English and Maths.

Additionally, some employers may offer support or additional training to help apprentices meet any necessary entry requirements.

If you have overseas qualifications, please email [email protected] for more information on whether these are acceptable equivalents of UK maths and English qualifications. Maths qualifications studied overseas may be acceptable, but it is likely that English qualifications, studied as a second language, will not.

After completing a degree apprenticeship, you will have several options, including:

• Continuing to work for your employer
• Pursuing further education or training
• Seeking new job opportunities in your chosen field
• Starting your own business or entrepreneurial venture

Most apprentices remain with the employer once they complete their apprenticeship, but others may decide to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Although your employer may wish you to remain with them, they are not allowed to ask you to repay training costs if you do decide to leave.