Why should I undertake a higher level degree apprenticeship?
Studying for a higher level degree apprenticeship is an innovative way to gain a Master’s degree whilst enhancing your skills and gaining practical experience in the workplace. You'll be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week while also attending University. Typically, you will work 80% of the time and study 20% of the time. While you do need an employer to support your application for an apprenticeship course, once you're on board you won't have any tuition fees to pay.
What qualification will I get after successfully completing an apprenticeship programme?
Upon successful completion of degree apprenticeship programmes, you will be awarded a degree from the University of Sheffield. You will also achieve an apprenticeship certificate that is graded at pass, merit or distinction.
Can I do a higher level degree apprenticeship if I already have a degree?
Yes! Graduates are eligible for degree apprenticeship funding. The apprenticeship must be significantly different to the degree you already hold to ensure that new skills, knowledge and behaviours are gained. If you are unsure on your eligibility, please contact us on
ExecutiveEducation@sheffield.ac.uk to discuss.
How long do degree apprenticeships take?
Typically, a level 7 degree apprenticeships lasts for 30 months. This consists of 24 months to complete the academic award (e.g. Executive MBA or MSc) and 6 months for the end point assessment.
How will I be taught?
Each of our programmes are taught in block study periods which includes compulsory modules, as well as a substantial work-based research project (Executive MBA and MSc). Each module is usually delivered in a three or five day blocks, during which, learners will benefit from the latest academic and practitioner thinking. The learning and teaching sessions will include lectures, business case analyses, problem analyses, learner presentations and talks by visiting guest lecturers from senior practitioners. More information is available on the programme pages.
How do I fund an apprenticeship programme?
Employers with a payroll in excess of £3 million will be subject to the Apprenticeship Levy and any funds paid out can be used to fund participation in apprenticeship programmes. Partial funding for the cost of the apprenticeship programme fee is available for non levy-paying employers (up to the relevant funding cap). The government will fund up to 90% of the apprenticeship programme fees. You can find out more on the
Education & Skills Funding Agency website.
I’m an employer and would like to customise a programme?
We are able to customise any of our programmes to meet employer requirements, dependent on enrolling specified minimum numbers. Working in partnership with you, we can help to define your needs and design a tailor-made programme that reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by your organisation. We'll then deliver the programme in a way that suits you and your employees. Please contact us to discuss your own requirements and learn how we can help.
What am I responsible for as an employer?
Employers are also jointly responsible for delivering training in the workplace, such as shadowing, mentoring, e-learning and practical training to satisfy the 20 per cent off-the-job-training requirement.