What are Degree Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are real jobs that combine work with training and study. You'll earn a wage, gain skills, and have the opportunity to put what you learn into practice. 

A degree apprenticeship allows you to graduate with an honours or master’s degree.  A higher apprenticeship will give you a professional qualification equivalent to foundation level. 

Our range of higher and degree apprenticeships provide you with an opportunity to gain a professional qualification and degree whilst you work. 

Apprenticeships are work based training programmes designed for current and future employees aged 16 or over. 

A Degree Apprenticeship allows you to study whilst also earning a salary, enabling you to gain the necessary qualifications and experience to progress.  
An apprenticeship can offer the best of both worlds – here are some of the benefits of choosing an apprenticeship:

• No tuition fees – these are paid by your employer and/or the government, so there is no expense for you
• Full–time employment - you will be earning a wage throughout your apprenticeship
• Tailored course – study subjects that relate directly to your job role
• Learn new skills-and achieve a nationally recognised qualification
• Work experience – you are gaining valuable work experience alongside studying

Studying as an apprentice is not an easy option – you have to balance your university workload with your paid employment. An apprenticeship can be a great opportunity if you are looking to combine work with study. You are entitled to paid time off to attend university, typically one day a week, this will be decided by your employer.

As a Degree Apprenticeship learner, you are also entitled to all the benefits of being a student at the University of Winchester – membership of the Student Union, access to our Student Services Department, Sports Facilities and our 24-hour Library, to name just a few.

Already employed? 

Degree Apprenticeships are open to candidates of all ages – you don’t have to be a school-leaver!
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Our apprenticeship programmes are aimed not only at those who are looking to begin a new career, but also at existing employees wanting to develop their skills and capabilities, with the support of their employer.

If you already have a job and would like to take on more structured learning, talk to your employer about Degree Apprenticeships - you could progress your own career whilst filling in skill gaps in your workplace.

Business Benefits

Degree Apprenticeships allow employers to develop existing staff as well as recruiting new talent and show that professional development is a priority for the business.

Hiring an apprentice or enrolling existing employees on a Degree Apprenticeship programme can offer a wide range of business benefits:

• Invest in the future of your business
• Retain your staff by offering structured progression
• Attract high-calibre new employees
• Increase your productivity and ensure knowledge is up to date
• Fill skill gaps in your business by tailoring course content to your needs
• Enhance your reputation for staff development
• Recoup your Levy payments and invest the money back in your business, or utilise generous Government funding

To find out how hiring an apprentice could benefit your business, please contact Apprenticeships@winchester.ac.uk