Higher level apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with academic learning and result in a Level 4 qualification or above, including an NVQ, HND or foundation degree. For example:
- A Level 4 apprenticeship is equivalent to a foundation degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC), or the first year of an undergraduate degree. and applicable for when you are 18 or older
- A Level 5 apprenticeships is also classified as higher apprenticeships, but are the equivalent of the full degree
- A Level 6 apprenticeship gives candidates the opportunity to obtain a full bachelor’s degree. Degree apprenticeships are new types of course offered by universities and further education colleges who have awarding powers to deliver higher technical qualifications
- A Level 7 apprenticeship is at postgraduate degree level. As these are demanding courses. It is common to see strict requirements from employers for these apprenticeships. You will almost certainly need prior qualifications. And these qualifications will need to be transferable to the apprenticeship in some way.
If you’re unsure of your options or want to find out more, speak to individual schools or colleges or speak to a qualified careers adviser through your school, college or other provider, local authority or via the National Careers Service.