Higher and Degree Apprenticeships: A Pathway to Professional Growth

Higher and degree apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as a valuable career development tool, providing opportunities for individuals to 'earn while they learn.' These apprenticeships are ideal for those seeking to progress in their careers without sacrificing their job. By balancing academic study with hands-on work experience, apprentices gain higher qualifications while continuing in their roles, benefiting both the employee and the employer.

Apprenticeships for All Ages

While apprenticeships were once viewed as primarily for young people just starting their careers, recent Government reforms have made them accessible to individuals at any stage of their career. They are particularly valuable for those with established careers who may not yet have the degree qualifications needed for career advancement.

Apprenticeships offer workers the chance to develop essential skills, enhance their qualifications, and increase their earning potential, while businesses benefit from increased productivity, competitiveness, and higher staff retention. The Apprenticeship Levy funds up to 95% of the costs, making apprenticeships an affordable option for both employees and employers.

The Statistics Behind Apprenticeships

Recent statistics highlight the significant benefits of apprenticeships. According to UK Government data (2025), 92% of businesses with apprentices report a more motivated and satisfied workforce, 86% see apprentices developing skills relevant to their organisation, and 80% experience a significant increase in employee retention. These statistics demonstrate why apprenticeships are an effective tool for both personal development and business success.

Why Choose University of Gloucestershire?

University of Gloucestershire offers a wide range of higher and degree apprenticeships across various sectors, including business, computing, cyber security, education, health, and social care. With state-of-the-art campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester, we provide an excellent learning environment that combines cutting-edge facilities with expert lecturers who are active professionals or renowned in their fields. Our apprenticeships are designed in collaboration with industry giants such as Superdry, GE Aviation, Raytheon, SLG Beauty, and the NHS. These organisations have not only helped shape our programmes but have also sent their own employees to take part, benefiting from the opportunity to upskill their workforce.

Benefits for Employers and Employees

Higher and degree apprenticeships are an excellent choice for businesses looking to upskill their workforce and build a competitive edge. Employees, meanwhile, benefit from the opportunity to gain higher qualifications without the financial burden of student fees, which are covered by the Apprenticeship Levy scheme.

Real-Life Success Stories

Don’t just take our word for it: hear from some of our graduates and industry partners.

Georgios Michailidis, Training and Development Manager at JW Marriott Grosvenor House, says: “We are privileged to have six apprentices on the hospitality management degree apprenticeship with UoG. These apprenticeships are massively benefiting our organisation, helping to fill skill gaps in the hospitality industry and creating a future pipeline of leaders.”

Alexander Cameron, a Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship graduate, says: "The Cyber Security Degree apprenticeship acted as a fantastic springboard into the next level of my career. Balancing study with industry experience allowed me to gain both academic knowledge and key work experience, which is critical in today’s business environment."

Another graduate, Laura Whitebrook, who completed the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA), reflects: "The CMDA program at UoG was an amazing experience. It was intimidating to become a university student later in life while working full-time and caring for my family. However, with the support of tutors and my cohort, I successfully completed the degree. Professionally, it gave me the confidence to apply for a senior manager role in business change, something I’ve always wanted to do."

Our Apprenticeship Offerings

University of Gloucestershire offers a wide range of apprenticeship programmes across different sectors:

Business Apprenticeships:

• Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship
• Facilities Manager Degree Apprenticeship
• Senior Leader Degree Apprenticeship
• Senior People Professional Degree Apprenticeship

Computing Apprenticeships:

• Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship
• Data Analyst Degree Apprenticeship
• Network Engineer Degree Apprenticeship
• Software Engineer Degree Apprenticeship

Health and Social Care Apprenticeships:

• Healthcare Science (Ophthalmic Imaging) Degree Apprenticeship
• Healthcare Science (Vascular Science) Degree Apprenticeship
• Nursing Associate Higher Apprenticeship
• Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship
• Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship
• Social Work Degree Apprenticeship

Supporting Your Journey

At University of Gloucestershire, we are committed to providing the best possible learning experience to our apprentices. We work closely with employers to ensure that our apprenticeships meet the needs of both individuals and organisations. Whether you're just starting your career or looking for professional development opportunities, our apprenticeship programmes offer the perfect balance of learning and work experience.

Learn More About Our Apprenticeships

If you’re interested in finding out more about the benefits of apprenticeships or want to know how to get started, our dedicated team is here to help. Contact us today!

Phone: +44 (0)1242 715 400
Email: apprenticeships@glos.ac.uk
Website: glos.ac.uk/apprenticeships
LinkedIn: University of Gloucestershire Business Development

Higher and degree apprenticeships are an exciting opportunity for both individuals and businesses. With University of Gloucestershire, you can gain the qualifications you need, upskill your workforce, and make a lasting impact in your industry.