The Rise of Degree Apprenticeships in the UK: A Shifting Balance

As a millennial, I was brought up with the notion that going to university was a key to success and that without a degree my job prospects were next to zilch. This notion is increased tenfold when taking into consideration my Asian background: education is seen as an imperative, meritocratic path to social mobility.

This line of thought worked for generations, but it seems society is doling out a new reality. Well-educated millennials are seeing diminishing returns compared to previous demographics, and the following cohorts (namely Generations Z and Alpha) are feeling the same pinch – if not worse!

It’s no small wonder then, that many are increasingly opting for alternative pathways to traditional university education, which is contributing to the incredible uptake of degree apprenticeships in the UK.

First introduced in 2015, degree apprenticeships in the UK combine university-level study with paid, work-based training. Following this program allows students to achieve a Bachelor’s degree whilst working for an employer and gaining valuable real-world experience. This program is proving to be a popular choice and enrolment in recent years has skyrocketed: from just under 1,000 initial enrolments to 353,500 in the last year and counting!

So why might secondary school graduates opt for degree apprenticeships? And is there still any merit in pursuing a university degree?

What UK Degree Apprenticeships Offer

The UK degree apprenticeship programme is structured so that students spend about 20% of their time studying and the rest working. Degree apprenticeships are offered across many different industries from more hands-on fields like nursing and engineering to more office-based roles like business administration. They are attracting high-attaining young people, which completely dispels the myth that only those who aren’t achieving well enough to go to uni pursue them!

One of the key attractions of this programme is that the degree is fully paid for. Students also  earn a wage straight away, which means that they are not burdened by student loans and other university debt. This resonates with young people who consider higher education a significant investment decision, as most undergraduates take out a loan, or multiple loans, to cover tuition and living costs. Making connections and networking with industry experts also proves useful and getting a taste of the responsibilities and underpinnings of the job helps to prepare students for the realities of their prospective career.

According to the Education Policy Institute, research shows that one year after graduation, the average young degree apprentice earned around double that of the average young graduate, and remains competitive even against degree-holders who graduated 10 years ago! The prospects of financial and professional success after completing a degree apprenticeship is a big draw.

Are University Degrees Obsolete?

Though overall UK university uptake is declining, total student numbers are still high, which means that university is still a popular choice for many students. Just in the 2024 - 2025 period, there were over 2.8 million students enrolled at UK higher education institutions.

Some highly specialised professions still require university degrees, including careers involving scientific research and in medicine.

Controlling for background differences, the benefits of a university degree include young graduates reporting the greatest nonmonetary job rewards, such as autonomy and career relevance, which has been strongly linked to job satisfaction rather than purely earnings.

Putting aside the Gradgrindian view of education as a pathway to jobs, for some, the end goal of university education is not always about one’s job prospects, but about furthering one’s passions for a chosen subject. University furthers personal development and a deeper understanding of these topics taught by well-respected academics.

Many students also pursue full-time university education to be immersed in university life, making friends and joining societies that matter to them. With a degree apprenticeship, students could be tied to the company for several years, so that level of commitment can be a significant barrier.

Are Tutors Still Needed in this Landscape?

Though the higher education landscape is changing, tutors still remain an essential part of a student’s development academically and increasingly professionally.

Many undergraduate and graduate learners still seek tutors who are specialists in their subjects to supplement their learning. Students pursuing degree apprenticeships in the UK also benefit from tutors who can bridge academic knowledge with real-world application, including reflective practice and portfolio development. This shift is already reflected in vocational pathways such as the BTEC and T-level curriculum, which both rely heavily on practical assessments.

At their core, tutors provide individualised guidance and give personalised feedback to help their students meet their learning goals. Regardless of the route learners take, the tutor’s core purpose remains the same and is still very much needed.

Follow Your Own Path

There are endless possibilities beyond pursuing degree apprenticeships or postgraduate education. Some choose to pursue traditional apprenticeships; some start entry-level roles; some join the armed forces. Speak to parents, trusted professionals, and mentors to help make sense of different options.

It’s important to consider one’s goals before taking the next step after school. It’s also important to remember that nothing is set in stone; if after pursuing an entry-level role, a leaver wishes to attend university after all that is perfectly viable!

Consider what is important to you and follow the path that is best suited to you.

Still deciding between higher education routes? Explore our guide on Choosing University or an Apprenticeship to weigh up your options, or contact our friendly team to discuss how subject tuition can support your pathway.

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Blog Post Crafted by Cheryl

Cheryl manages our Admin Team, and is a qualified teacher with 5 years' experience in schools across England and Canada.

Cheryl graduated from University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Education. She tutored secondary school students in English for over nine years in Canada.

Cheryl speaks Cantonese, English and French, and in her spare time, she can be found illustrating and reading children’s books for inspiration.