The Truth About Degree Apprenticeships

Degree Apprenticeships (level 6 & 7) are becoming increasingly popular for allowing individuals further their education and gain work experience hand in hand. Yet, the growth of degree apprenticeships has led to numerous misconceptions surrounding them that cause many to lose out on this opportunity. Below I will explore the main misconceptions and attempt to uncover the truth.

You need good grades to qualify for a degree apprenticeship

In Wales, degree apprentices are hired by an employer through a partnership with a University. This means that the individual has to meet the Universities requirements for the apprenticeship however this doesn’t mean that you always need high grades to qualify. If you have the knowledge to help their business grow and a positive attitude to work you are already on the right track.

“Meeting new people, creating and learning new skills made me build my confidence.” – Rishi Kumar (Past Learner completing an apprenticeship)

At iungo, it’s believed that people should be hired based on their passion and attitude towards their job rather than their experience.

A degree apprenticeship isn’t a real degree

It is a clear misconception that degree apprentices can’t gain a full bachelors degree while completing their apprenticeship, however because degree apprentices split their time between university study and the workplace; gaining a full bachelor’s or master’s degree while earning a wage and getting a real hands-on experience in their chosen industry is often seen as the better option.

“This is the best platform to gain more insight and skills because outside of it there is no such thing that is free.” – Rishi Kumar (Past Learner)

However, it does have to be taken into account that degree apprenticeships are significantly harder so offer a unique challenge as you are working while completing a full time degree.

Degree apprenticeships will not lead to a career

Many worry that completing a degree apprenticeship won’t secure them a job for the future however due to the fact that degree apprenticeships are significantly harder and double the work a lot of employers will favour those who have completed one. Degree apprentices are particularly sought after because they come out with a university degree as well as years of work experience completed alongside industry professionals. A number of apprentices are also offered a full time job from the employer once completing their degree, so it may be said that degree apprenticeships secure a job for the future and provide a clear path to better job prospects.

The UK National Apprenticeship Week 2023 found that almost half of the public (44%) believe this type of apprenticeship is able to offer young people better job prospects and preparation for the workplace than university studies alone.

At the end of the day the negative stigmas that have been linked to degree apprenticeships are mainly incorrect. The truth is that they create benefits to the individual from several years of workplace experience, alongside studying a course tailored specifically to employers’ needs. This means that completing a degree apprenticeship gives you the best of both worlds as well as giving you experience for life. Combine these benefits with the chance of graduating debt-free and there is no wonder that degree apprenticeships have become an attractive option for young people.