Getting a degree - is an apprenticeship or university the right choice for your child?

Dec 28, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Jul 22

With the introduction of degree apprenticeships in 2015, apprenticeships now provide a viable alternative to university for gaining a full degree qualification. Degree apprenticeships are a relatively new addition to the range of options available for school leavers, and it’s important to understand the pros and cons of opting for one route over another. We recommend you consider the following.

Choice

With over 1,500 different degree titles, traditional degrees offer far greater variety in the choice of courses, subjects and modules available. Traditional degrees enable students to study subject areas that interest them, and to tailor their degree during study by opting for certain modules as their interests evolve. In contrast, degree apprenticeships are far more focused and industry-specific, and the university and location of study are limited to those working with the employer.

The student experience

'Student life' will be different for an apprentice compared to a full-time student. While degree apprentices will experience some aspects of campus life, it will differ from that of students fully immersed in or living on campus. Most university degrees offer plenty of flexibility in how students manage their study time, but time for study will be more limited when also working. Holiday periods are a significant differentiator: university students will have around 14 weeks’ holiday per year, but apprentices will have only four or five. Some university apprenticeships offer the opportunity of full-time academic study during term time, and full-time work during the holidays.

Direction

Degree apprenticeships enable students to develop the skills and knowledge needed for specific jobs and careers. They’re an excellent choice for school leavers who have a clear idea of the type of job role and career they’d like. In contrast, university degree courses remain relatively open and provide a springboard to a range of career prospects after graduation.

Employability

One of the biggest advantages apprentices have over peers with similar-level qualifications gained through university is that they’ll have developed many commercially desirable soft skills. First-hand experience of meeting work deadlines, forming professional relationships with colleagues at many different levels, building rapport and trust with external stakeholders, and communicating (whether by email, phone or in meetings) in a work environment is highly valuable to future employers.

Style of learning

Although largely dependent on the type of university and the chosen course, full-time students are likely to be better suited to classroom and teacher-led learning. Degree apprenticeships offer a more vocational and applied learning environment, where much of the learning and training is done on the job.

Finances

Degree apprenticeships are fully funded by the government and the employer, and apprentices are paid a wage for their time. Apprentices usually complete their apprenticeship debt-free. A traditional degree will cost students over £9,000 a year in tuition, excluding living (maintenance) expenses. Low-interest loans, scholarships and bursaries are available, but it’s likely a full-time student will graduate with a sizeable debt.

Is your child considering a degree apprenticeship but unsure whether it’s the right decision?

For more information on apprenticeships, and how you can support your child in making an informed decision about what they do after school, check out The Parents' Guide to Apprenticeships and The Parents' Guide to University.