So you’ve heard about the benefits of degree apprenticeships, and decided this is the route you want to take to kickstart your career. Fantastic stuff, we say! Much like pursuing the traditional degree pathway, there are a number of things to consider when you set off down this route. The more prepared you are, the easier it will be to find degree apprenticeships that are right for you.
In true Springpod fashion, here are a few pointers that can get you started on this journey faster:
What course subjects are available
When trying to find degree apprenticeships, one of the keys things you need to think about is which subject(s) you want to study - and which ones are on offer.
When they were first launched, Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) were a massive priority for degree apprenticeships. As a nation, we need more technically skilled young people to keep up with an increasingly tech-focused society, hence the focus on these subjects.
Since then, degree apprenticeships have grown and become available in different subjects for industry sectors including:
- Business
- Education
- Digital
- Creative and Design
- Health and Science
- Accounting
- Law
The list is constantly growing, but not every subject is available yet. Make sure what you want to study is available first and foremost. If you’re not sure, checking what’s out there already can be a great way to find something that aligns with some of your own career ideas! Or have a browse on the Springpod network to find out the different degree apprenticeships available.
Where you can study
The other thing to consider is where degree apprenticeships are available.
They’re established between universities and employers, which does partially limit where they’re being offered. Although more universities are seeking to grow these partnerships, for the time being you’ll have to be open about where you want to go if they’re not offered locally. But as the saying goes, 'will travel for good career prospects' might need to be your mantra. And yes, it's often worth it.
The entry requirements
Much like a traditional degree, different courses will require a certain level of previous academic achievement. This might include a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C or 9-4 (or equivalent), as well as A-Levels or equivalent study, such as completion of an advanced apprenticeship .
Because you’ll also be working, your employer might have some requirements you’ll need to meet in order to be accepted, such as previous study or work experience in an area related to the role.
Don’t forget: Employment Prospects
The other key factors to think about when deciding an apprenticeship are the potential future employment prospects and opportunities for professional growth. This is where researching and learning more about the companies currently offering degree apprenticeships will help. Careers broadcasts on Springpod offer a great way to discover 'Life as a Degree Apprentice' and beyond too.
Speaking to other apprentices is also a great way to explore this. Think about asking them:
- What areas of the business they got to explore and learn about
- How much input they had into how their apprenticeship developed in the workplace
- What opportunities they’ve had for extra industry training
- If they secured or have been offered employment with the company when they finish
And finally: three places to find degree apprenticeships
The truth is that you now have numerous options to help you discover the right degree apprenticeship opportunities. They include:
Direct from Employers: If you're already considering a few companies that you would love to work for, then why not take a look at the early careers section? Alternatively, make your life a little easier and browse of all available degree apprenticeship opportunities on Springpod - you could even interact with company ambassadors to get your questions answered before applying.
Your School Careers Department: Your friendly careers leader can be a great resource to help you when researching, planning and applying for any degree apprenticeship opportunities. After all, they're there to help you.
National Apprenticeship Service: It’s a great resource for all things apprenticeships, with anywhere between 12,000 and 20,000 apprenticeship vacancies advertised on the site at any one time.
Remember, when it comes to picking the ‘right’ degree apprenticeship, it really does come down to what you want to get out of the program and how you want it to support your ongoing career journey.
We hope these starting points will be just what you need to help you on the way!
