THE POWER OF DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS

If you sat A-levels this year and haven’t decided on your next steps, don’t worry; you’re not alone. While many young people are following their original plans to go to university or into employment, many are still undecided. If this is you, a higher or degree-level apprenticeship is an option worth considering, combining work with advanced study.

You’ve probably already heard of higher and degree-level apprenticeships, but for a useful LCR Bemore recap, check out Spilling the Beans on Degree Apprenticeships. And if you haven’t confirmed your next steps, mark October on your calendar. That is when Amazing Apprenticeships will release an updated list of degree and higher apprenticeship opportunities. 

Unlike traditional university courses, degree apprenticeships don’t have one set application or start date. Degree apprenticeship vacancies are advertised throughout the year, although many larger programmes recruit for a September start. 

Below are a few key points to help you decide if a degree or higher apprenticeship is something you want to apply for. 

Are you asking the right questions?

Universities still play a key role; most degree apprenticeships partner with them. Degree apprenticeships last between three and six years. For many people, they are an attractive option because they combine a degree, a salary, and experience while avoiding typical student debt.

Focus on which route best fits your potential career: a degree apprenticeship or a traditional university undergraduate programme. The question you need to find an answer to is: ‘What best supports your ambitions?’

Hint: Not going to university is a far more credible option than a decade ago.

Do employers value workplace experience more than a degree on its own?

Many employers still value degrees. But most also want proof you can turn knowledge into action. Degree or higher apprenticeships let you gain real-world experience before you graduate.

As you work toward your degree whilst doing a job, you solve real business or workplace challenges and demonstrate your judgement. That can make you more valuable to employers than a degree alone.

Hint: Knowing something is one thing, proving you can apply it is another. 

How have degree apprenticeships advanced during recent years?

Degree apprenticeships rolled out more than a decade ago. Initially, there were nine trailblazer subjects. Today, you can find dozens more subjects, including law, cyber security, healthcare, and finance. 

Apprenticeships offer a direct path into skilled roles. Many employers now opt to hire through degree apprenticeships over graduate recruitment programmes. And many public sector employers, such as the police, use degree apprenticeships to recruit.

Note: Degree apprenticeships are no longer niche, so don’t assume your area of interest is unavailable.

Is it easier to gain a place on a degree apprenticeship than a university place?

No. Degree apprenticeships attract strong applicants and remain highly competitive. There are fewer places than for traditional university degrees. Treat your degree apprenticeship application as seriously as a university application. Remember, you are applying for a degree and a job at the same time. 

Hint: Remember you have an employer to impress as well!

Beyond good grades, what are employers looking for from apprenticeship applicants in 2026?

If your application is generic, you won’t stand out. Employers look for people who show real interest in their organisation, so do your research. Translate your experience into workplace skills that are relevant to the company. Use your part-time work, volunteering, sports, caring, and projects as examples. Digital literacy, adaptability, and an open mind are crucial in the workplace.

Note: For instance, rather than simply listing the use of AI as a skill, explain how you would apply it in a specific job and outline your views on using technology responsibly to achieve better results.

Finding higher and degree apprenticeship opportunities

Amazing Apprenticeships will update and release the Higher & Degree Vacancy Listing again in October 2026. This list includes degree and higher apprenticeship opportunities from employers nationwide.

For local options, search the apprenticeship section on the BeMore site and use the filters for higher and degree apprenticeships.

Sign up for LCR BeMore apprenticeship alerts. Check individual employers’ and universities’ opportunities, since not all roles appear in one place. Opportunities are also listed on UCAS.

Note: Don’t wait for the perfect vacancy to land in your lap; stay proactive and keep scanning multiple sources. 

Career first

You will need to commit to balancing work and study to succeed in any higher apprenticeship. If you want the full-time student experience, university might be a better option for that, but not necessarily for your career.

Find out more about the work you want to do before applying for an apprenticeship. Seek out different scenarios that can get you into a profession you’re enthusiastic about.

Compare your options and keep alternatives in mind. Plans change, but employers will value your resilience if you work through any challenges.