Apprenticeships
Higher and degree apprenticeships
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Higher and degree apprenticeships
Apprenticeships
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Apprentices earn while they learn, building technical knowledge, practical experience, and the skills and behaviours needed for their role. Learning happens through formal off-the-job training and applying new skills in the workplace. You’ll spend time at university and time in the workplace, with training agreed by your employer.
Want to know more? Read our blog on how apprenticeships work.
Apprentice enquiries:
Why choose an apprenticeship with UEL?
At the University of East London we believe your career shouldn’t have to wait, and neither should your degree. With a Degree Apprenticeship, you can step straight into advanced training, build on your existing role, and graduate with a recognised qualification, all without a penny of tuition fees.
Why become an apprentice?
Earn a salary while studying for a higher or degree qualification. Apprenticeships offer an alternative route into higher education, combining paid employment with university study and practical work experience.
As an apprentice, you will:
- Work in a real job
- Spend at least six hours a week on protected university study
- Gain qualifications designed around your job role and commitments
You can study towards:
- A Foundation Degree (Level 4)
- A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6)
- A Master’s degree (Level 7)
You apply for an apprenticeship through an employer rather than directly to the University of East London. Training costs are normally covered by the employer and government, so apprenticeships are tuition-fee-free.
Most apprentices work around 30 to 40 hours a week and receive at least minimum wage alongside employee benefits. Apprentices aged 18 and over who live in a London borough may also qualify for subsidised travel from Transport for London during their first year.
You can search for apprenticeship vacancies on:
- Indeed
- Reed
- Employer websites
- Not Going to Uni
- The National Apprenticeship Service website
If you are 18 or over
Ready to upskill? Specialise or take the next step in your career, the University of East London can help you get there.
For more than 125 years
We have been part of East London’s communities, building strong partnerships with employers and helping shape future industries.
Our courses are designed to support
career progression and help learners achieve strong outcomes above the national average.
Apprenticeship standards in progress
- Social worker (Integrated degree)
- Advanced Clinical Practitioner (Integrated degree)
- Aerospace Engineer Level 6
- Dietician Level: 6 (Integrated degree)
- Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner Level 6
All apprenticeship standards have a qualification attached to them and apprentices study with us for 20% of their workday. All apprentices are employed in a full-time job associated with the apprenticeship. A formal assessment is carried out towards the end of the programme of study. This is known as the endpoint assessment.
Accreditation
Our underpinning educational programmes are accredited by leading professional bodies such as:
- TechSkills
- the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
- the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)
- the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)
- the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE)
- the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
- Health & Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
We work closely with a wide range of organisations including Health Education England (HEE).
Benefits of an apprenticeship
Hear from employers and students as they discuss the benefits of our apprenticeship scheme.
Contact us
If you would like to find out more about our degree apprenticeship programmes, please contact the apprenticeship team at degreeapprenticeships@uel.ac.uk.
Student Support at UEL
Starting university can feel like a big step – whether you're coming straight from school or returning to education after some time away. At the University of East London, we're here to make that transition as smooth as possible.
From day one, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services designed to help you settle in, stay on track, and make the most of your time with us.
Financial Support at UEL
At the University of East London, we’re committed to helping students overcome financial barriers so you can focus on your education.
Whether you need advice on managing your money, support with tuition fees, or help accessing bursaries and funding, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Term Dates & Opening Times
Stay on top of your academic year with our key term dates and campus opening times.
Whether you're planning your studies, holidays, or work schedule, knowing the important dates helps you stay organised and prepared throughout your time at UEL. Have 3 year pipeline of cohort dates.
Apprenticeship FAQs
What is a higher or degree apprenticeship?
It’s a real job with training. You earn a salary while studying towards a university qualification alongside your work.
How do I apply for an apprenticeship at UEL?
You don’t apply directly to UEL. You first find and apply for an apprenticeship job with an employer recruiting in your chosen field. If you’re successful, you study with UEL as part of your job.
Do apprentices pay tuition fees?
No. The employer and government meet the training fees, so apprentices can be tuition-fee-free.
How much does it cost employers to employ an apprentice?
Levy employers pay £27,000 across the programme (estimated £562/month). Non-levy employers should contact UEL for costs.
What qualifications can I gain through an apprenticeship?
Depending on the programme, you can gain a Foundation Degree (Level 4), a Bachelor’s degree (Level 6) or a Master’s degree (Level 7).
How does studying for an apprenticeship fit around working?
Apprenticeships are designed to fit around your job commitments, with study time agreed with your employer.
Can apprenticeship delivery be customised for employer cohorts?
Yes. UEL may offer concentrated teaching blocks for cohorts where needed.
How do employers enrol an apprentice on a programme?
Employers should contact UEL’s apprenticeship team to discuss business needs and the enrolment process.