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The Heathland School

The Heathland School

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

Get a degree and a salary, with no tuition fees

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships are becoming a more attractive alternative and are currently being offered by more universities and companies each year, with the competition growing immensely.

Demand for degree-level apprenticeships, have increased strongly by 30% for the first half of this year, with over 950 roles advertised across various industries for 2026, with more to come.

Higher and degree apprenticeships combine a paid job with study at a university or college. You build a career and a qualification from Level 4 up to a full degree, and your training fees are covered.

 

What are higher and degree apprenticeships?

You are employed from day one. Most of your time is spent doing the job and learning from experienced colleagues, and the rest is study with a university or training provider, often one day a week or in blocks. Your employer, with government support, pays for your training.

They are open in many fields, from engineering, finance and law to digital technology, healthcare, construction and management.

Higher: Levels 4 and 5

 

Comparable to a Higher National Certificate or Diploma, or a foundation degree.

 

Often takes around two years.

Degree: Level 6

 

You finish with a full bachelor's degree, awarded by a university.

 

Often takes three to five years.

 

Degree: Level 7

 

A master's-level qualification, used for some professions such as law, architecture and senior technical roles/

Not every apprenticeship at Level 6 or 7 includes a degree. The vacancy will say what qualification you will earn.

 

Apprenticeship or University?

Both lead to a degree but suit different people.

 

University

Degree

How you learn

Full-time study

Working full-time, with studying alongside

Money

You pay student and maintenance loans

You receive a full wage

Time

3-4 years of full-time study

3 – 6 years, or potentially longer

After graduation

Graduates begin job searching

Degree Apprentice Graduates often receive permanent job offers with their company

 

What do I need to apply?

Requirements are set by each employer and university, so read every vacancy carefully. As a rough guide:

Level 4 and 5

Often a Level 3 qualification such as A-levels, a BTEC or a Level 3 apprenticeship. Some ask for specific subjects.

Level 6 and 7

Often A-levels or equivalent, sometimes with set grades or UCAS points. Some also ask for particular subjects, such as maths for engineering.

 

Grades are only part of it. Employers also look at teamwork, communication, motivation and how you perform in interviews and assessments, as well extracurricular and super-curricular activities.

 

How to apply

  1. Research in Year 12: Find out which employers and careers interest you. Choose your A-levels or Level 3 subjects with any entry requirements in mind.
  2. Look for vacancies: Use the government's Find an apprenticeship service and check the early careers pages of large employers.
  3. Apply early: Many employers recruit from the autumn of Year 13, and popular schemes can close once they have enough applicants.
  4. Prepare for the process: Expect an application form, online tests, and sometimes a video interview, assessment centre or in-person interview. Our careers team can help you practise.
  5. Apply to several, and keep UCAS open: Competition is strong, so most students send multiple applications. Applying to university as well means you have choices.

 

How does The Heathland help prepare you?

Similar to the programs the school runs for Oxbridge entrants, the Careers Officer runs a program to prepare 6th Form students who wish to pursue Degree Apprenticeships. This includes:

  • Posting daily opportunities on the 6th Form Opportunities Channel on MS Teams
  • Hosting guest speakers such as Apprentago CEO Carlo Weaver, as well as alumni and members of industry, to coach students on higher apprenticeships and employability skills
  • Regular talks held by the Careers Officer, exploring deeper into what is required of a Degree Apprenticeship, as well as practice assessment centre style sessions for students to become familiar with
  • Weekly “Fishbowl” scenarios that run during PSHE so students can practice and refine their answers
  • Personalised CV reviews and assistance in tailoring applications during career appointments
  • Networking opportunities with Higher Education Day, Future You Fair and guest speakers for Enrichment Talks
  • LinkedIn sessions during PSHE, including access to the Heathland Alumni
  • Providing students access to Apprentago
  • Hosting “Mock Interview Day” specifically for Year 12, inviting employers to help students practice their skills
  • Year 12 TedTalk Competition, where students can demonstrate their public speaking and employability skills

 

Common Questions

What’s the pay difference for graduates and degree apprentices?

Degree apprentices have a strong financial advantage early on. They earn around £25,000+ with no student debt, compared to graduates who finish with £53,000 in debt and lower initial earnings. Five years after completion, degree apprentices often earn around £5,000 more per year on average than traditional graduates.

 

Are they only for certain subjects?

No. Popular areas include Engineering, Digital Technology, Computer Science, Accountancy, Law, Business Management, Healthcare, Project Management, and Cyber Security — among many others.

 

Are degree apprenticeships harder or easier than a normal degree?

Many students find them more demanding because they balance full time work with degree-level study, but the practical focus can make learning more motivating and relevant.

 

How competitive are places with big-name employers?

Extremely competitive — top schemes (e.g. BBC, NHS, Civil Service, PwC, Airbus, Google) can receive thousands of applications per place. Strong academics plus evidence of relevant skills/experience are essential.

 

Will you have a graduation ceremony and certificate?

Yes. At the end of the apprenticeship, students will have a ceremony to celebrate their accomplishment, either held at the university or with the company offices, the same as a traditional university graduation ceremony. You will also be given their degree and transcript the same way, as well as other qualifications earned during their time.

 

Useful Sites:

  • Amazing Apprenticeships – A leading organisation in the education sector, working with schools, colleges and employers, tackling misconceptions and promoting the benefits of apprenticeships and technical education. They have excellent resource zones for parents and students, as well as annually releasing the biggest collection of apprenticeship vacancies. (https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/)

 

  • Apprentago – A platform we have recently partnered with for students interested in Higher and Degree Apprenticeships. The site showcases vacancies, video guides for applying, and an AI-powered CV Builder. Students are encouraged to sign up using their school email. (https://apprentago.co.uk/)

 

 

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