Careers Update
Higher apprenticeships: Not just for trades
When people hear the word “apprenticeship,” they often think of trades like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work. But higher and degree apprenticeships are changing that perception, offering opportunities in a wide range of industries, from healthcare to IT. These programs combine work experience with formal education, allowing you to earn qualifications that can range from diplomas to full degrees while gaining practical skills in the workplace.
Let’s explore what makes higher and degree apprenticeships unique and how they can help you jump-start your career.
What are higher apprenticeships?
Higher apprenticeships are structured learning programs that combine part-time work with part-time study, allowing you to immediately apply what you learn in the classroom to your role in the workplace. Think of them as an advanced version of the traditional trade apprenticeship, but instead of learning a hands-on trade like plumbing or carpentry, you’re acquiring skills in professional fields such as IT, finance, business, and even healthcare.
What makes higher apprenticeships so appealing is the blend of real-world experience and academic learning. You’re not just sitting in a lecture hall or classroom—you’re out in the field, building practical skills and making connections in your chosen industry. By the time you finish, you’ll have earned a qualification (such as a diploma or bachelor’s degree), gained significant work experience, and likely developed a network of industry contacts.
Why choose a higher apprenticeship?
Higher apprenticeships are an attractive option for many reasons, especially for those who want to enter professional fields without committing to a full-time university degree straight away. Here are some key benefits:
Earn while you learn
Just like a trade apprenticeship, you’ll be paid for your work, which means you won’t have to worry as much about tuition fees or living expenses.
Immediate skill application
One of the biggest advantages of a higher apprenticeship is the ability to put your learning into practice immediately. Unlike a university degree, where you might wait until the final year for a work placement, higher apprenticeships allow you to apply what you’ve learnt from day one.
Career exploration
Higher apprenticeships give you a chance to ‘test the waters’ in a professional field without making a long-term commitment to university. You can gain experience and decide if this is the right career for you while still earning qualifications.
No degree required
In many professional fields, particularly IT and business, a formal degree isn’t always necessary. Many employers are more interested in your skills and practical experience, which makes higher apprenticeships an excellent pathway into these industries. For example, many software developers are self-taught or learn on the job, and a higher apprenticeship allows you to follow this route while gaining both credentials and experience.
How do higher apprenticeships work?
Higher apprenticeships are designed to balance work and study, but the exact structure can vary depending on the industry, employer, and qualification level. Typically, you’ll spend part of your week working at a company and the other part attending classes or studying.
These programs can last anywhere from one to six years, depending on the level of qualification. You could complete a diploma within one to two years or work towards a full bachelor’s degree in three to four years. The duration of the apprenticeship depends on the intensity of the course and how much time you’re spending in the workplace versus the classroom.
One common concern is whether an apprenticeship will take longer than a traditional university pathway. In many cases, the timeline is comparable, especially when you consider that you’re gaining real work experience throughout the course. Even if the program takes slightly longer, you’ll finish with practical skills, industry connections, and likely a job offer waiting for you.
Finding a higher apprenticeship
Finding the right higher apprenticeship involves some research, just like applying for a job or university program. Here are a few steps to help you get started:
Check apprenticeship platforms
Websites like Australian Apprenticeships and UCAS offer detailed listings of available higher apprenticeships across various industries. You can filter by location, industry, and qualification level to find the right fit for you.
University and employer partnerships
Many universities and employers partner to offer degree apprenticeships. Check with your preferred university or potential employers to see if they offer programs in your field of interest.
Industry-specific job boards
Many industries, particularly IT and business, have job boards where companies post apprenticeship opportunities. Check these resources to find openings that match your interests.
Talk to a career advisor
If you’re unsure where to start, a career advisor can help guide you through the process, recommend programs, and connect you with resources to find an apprenticeship that fits your goals.
Key industries offering higher apprenticeships
Higher apprenticeships are expanding across a range of industries. Here’s a closer look at how they’re shaping up in key sectors:
Computing and IT
IT is a perfect field for higher apprenticeships, as the industry often values practical skills over formal degrees. In a higher apprenticeship, you might work in software development, cybersecurity, or data analysis while studying for a diploma or degree in IT. You’ll gain hands-on experience with coding, troubleshooting, and network management.
What it looks like: Apprentices in IT often start in support roles, gradually working their way up to more technical positions. Your work might involve managing systems, testing software, or even helping to design apps, while your academic study covers programming languages and IT infrastructure.
Business and management
In business and management, apprenticeships can span roles like project management, human resources, or operations. Higher apprenticeships allow you to work in various departments, gaining practical skills while earning a diploma or degree in business.
What it looks like: You might rotate through different areas of a company, learning the ins and outs of business operations, strategy, and management. Your coursework will likely include subjects such as economics, finance, and leadership.
Finance and accounting
Higher apprenticeships in finance and accounting provide the chance to work as an apprentice accountant, bookkeeper, or financial analyst while working towards a qualification in finance. These apprenticeships are ideal for those who enjoy working with numbers and data.
What it looks like: Apprentices might start in junior accounting roles, gaining experience in managing budgets, processing payroll, and auditing financial records. Your academic coursework will cover subjects like financial reporting, tax, and business law.
Engineering
Engineering apprenticeships provide opportunities in fields like civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering. These apprenticeships combine technical study with real-world problem-solving, giving you a hands-on approach to engineering projects.
What it looks like: Your work will likely involve design, testing, or maintaining infrastructure and equipment, while your coursework covers advanced mathematics, physics, and engineering principles.
Healthcare
Healthcare apprenticeships offer paths into nursing, healthcare administration, and even allied health professions. These apprenticeships allow you to work in clinical settings while studying for qualifications like a diploma in nursing or healthcare support.
What it looks like: You’ll work under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals, providing patient care, managing records, or assisting with procedures. Your academic studies will focus on medical terminology, ethics, and healthcare systems.
Law
Law apprenticeships offer an alternative to the traditional university law degree pathway. They provide hands-on experience working in a law firm while studying for qualifications that could lead to becoming a solicitor or legal executive.
What it looks like: You might start by assisting solicitors, preparing documents, or conducting legal research. Over time, your responsibilities will grow as you work towards becoming fully qualified.
The future of higher apprenticeships
Higher apprenticeships are gaining momentum worldwide, with programs popping up in fields that traditionally required degrees. For instance, in the UK, Multiverse has partnered with companies to train employees in software engineering, while PwC’s Higher Apprenticeship Program in Australia is offering pathways in accounting and finance. In the US, campaigns are underway to promote apprenticeships for hard-to-fill tech roles like app developers and data analysts.
The bottom line is that higher apprenticeships are here to stay, offering a practical, flexible route into professional careers. Whether you’re interested in IT, business, healthcare, or law, higher apprenticeships give you the chance to earn while you learn, gain valuable experience, and step straight into a career after graduation.