University or degree apprenticeship?
Students discuss how to choose between them.
Traditional degree or degree apprenticeship?
Choosing between a traditional degree and a degree apprenticeship seems hard, but not when you have all the info you need.
It’s worth it not to rush this decision, and give it a solid thought — remember, bright futures are built on well-informed decisions.
Maybe, deep down, you know the answer already – or at least some version of it – it’s still good to explore all options. And we’ve got a four-step process to help you sort out your thoughts.
Step 1: What am I interested in?
A uni can offer hundreds of degrees. There are just as many choices when it comes to degree apprenticeships. Degree apprenticeships include:
- business/management
- finance
- IT
- marketing
- sales
- science
- law
- nursing
- journalism and media
Step 2: How would I learn best?
Below we list the main things you’ll do at uni vs as a degree apprentice. See which column speaks to you best, and remember it’s totally fine if you’d like to do a bit of everything — try to think of it in terms of which column speaks to you more.
University student
- Go to lectures
- Explore your favourite subjects deeply
- Learn from professors
- Bounce ideas with coursemates
- Write essays, conduct experiments
Degree apprentice
- Learn and apply your skills practically
- Focus your learning on the right areas
- Learn from professors during off-the-job training
- Bounce ideas with your co-workers
- Be supported by a a mentor, manager, and a dedicated learning plan
Step 3: How much money is involved?
Here’s a quick rundown:
| University student | Degree apprentice | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Up to £9,250 per year paid through your student loan | Paid by employer or government |
| Living costs | Paid by you and/or maintenance loan | Paid by you |
| Wages | None | At least £7.55 per hour |
| Average salary | None | £23,000 Salaries for degree apprenticeships can vary, but this figure is an average salary |
Step 4: How much time do I have?
| University student | Degree apprentice | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Time to complete | Qualification | Time to complete |
| Diploma in Higher Education | Two years full-time study | Undergraduate or master's degree | Three – six years to complete, depending on course level |
| Bachelor degree | Three four years full-time study | ||
| Master's degree | One – two years (full-time) Two – four years (part-time) |
UCAS Hub
Explore your options, favourite your interests and get tailored advice in the UCAS Hub.
Unsure of what to do with your life or what your next steps are? Use our information on careers, apprenticeships and university to explore what routes are available and which one is right for you.
Discover what different degrees and courses are available and where to help you make the right decision about your future.
Wondering what it’s really like to study at university? From taster days to student experiences and sample lectures, find out how you can get a flavour of university life – and if it’s the right next step for you.
A degree apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to gain a paid-for degree while getting industry experience and earning a salary.