Higher-level and degree apprenticeships offer an exciting route into some of the best organisations in the world. Cathedrals Group Universities have led the field in developing these new and exciting apprenticeships. Here’s some examples of what our universities have been delivering.
Canterbury Christ Church University
Since 2017, Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has worked in partnership with employers to deliver higher and degree apprenticeships for qualifications at Level 4 or above, up to degree and masters’ level. These apprenticeships combine practical on-the-job training with academic learning. The University works with local and regional employers including the NHS and the private sector to deliver recognised qualifications to help apprentices succeed and enhance their career within their chosen sector.
Apprenticeships at CCCU offered at higher and degree level include Health and Science, Business and Administration, Education and Early Years, Care Services, and the Protective Services. Find out more here.
The University of Gloucestershire
Apprenticeships at the University of Gloucestershire are going from strength to strength and apprentices now account for more than 10% of the University’s learner population.
One of the standout features of the University’s apprenticeship portfolio is its diversity. Programmes are available in business, education, health and social care and computing. In addition to programmes at foundation degree and degree level, there is an increasing range of options at master’s level, including a Senior Leader Apprenticeship for those wishing to move into a senior or strategic management role, with the option of an MBA as part of the apprenticeship at no additional cost to the employer. The Senior People Professional Degree Apprenticeship has been designed for current and aspiring professional managers who want to lead HR improvements in their organisation and develop their own capability as critical thinkers and reflexive practitioners. Find out more here.
The University of Chichester
Degree apprenticeships offer recognised benefits to employers and learners, filling skills gaps for employers and allowing learners to develop real-world work experience alongside their degree studies. During their four-year degree apprenticeship at the University of Chichester, apprentices study at the University for one day a week, spending the other days as full-time paid employees at a local business.
Chichester provides degree apprenticeships in electrical/electronic technical support engineering, manufacturing engineering, chartered management, digital and technology solutions, digital marketing, social work, senior leadership, and PG engineer business management. The University also offers a nursing associate higher apprenticeship. Find out more here.
The University of Cumbria
The University has led the way in offering unique apprenticeship courses in partnership with key organisations and businesses throughout the UK and is proud to excel in the field of Paramedic Practice, Policing, Project Management, and Healthcare. At Cumbria, apprenticeships can be completed with the NHS, Police, Sellafield Ltd, Rolls-Royce, the BBC, and many more employers. Find out more here.
York St John University
Winner of the York and North Yorkshire “Training Provider of the Year for 2023” and ranked in the top 50 apprenticeship training providers on “Rate My Apprenticeship”, York St John University offers a tailored portfolio of degree apprenticeships fit for industry need. The University works closely with employers to co-design apprenticeship programmes and delivery models, helping apprentices to gain skills and knowledge to succeed in the workplace.
Programmes begin in September of each year and are delivered from the University’s York and London campuses. A growing portfolio of national businesses use these courses to support their talent acquisition and upskill their workforce. Apprenticeship programmes include Senior Leaders Apprenticeship (level 7), Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (level 6) Data Scientist Degree Apprenticeship (level 6), and a Project Management Degree Apprenticeship (level 6). Find out more here.
Bishop Grosseteste University
Degree Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to combine on-the-job training with academic learning, helping to develop skills in a practical setting. Anyone can succeed with an apprenticeship, whether a recent school leaver or making a career change. The average age of apprentices at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is 41, ranging from 18 to 61, so there’s a course to suit regardless of age.
BGU’s Career Development Professional Apprenticeship allows practice as a qualified Careers Professional, helping individuals develop career management skills. Through the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, apprentices learn how to take responsibility for people, projects, and services. Or, those who are natural leaders, BGU offers a Senior Leader Apprenticeship qualification aimed at those who are looking to develop leadership skills providing the experience to shape the future for individuals, organisations, and industry.
With up to 100% of the cost covered through the apprenticeship levy and the ability to earn a salary while learning, apprenticeships are a value-for-money opportunity. Apprentices are taught by experienced professionals and have access to state-of-the-art facilities. The courses are also designed in collaboration with employers to ensure apprentices gain skills relevant to their industry and sector.