Advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships
Our apprenticeship provision has been rated good by Ofsted (July 2024). We offer advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships integrating academic study with practical application in the workplace, which can lead to a Higher Education certificate, diploma, or degree, and/or professional accreditation or membership.
What are advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships?
Advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships offer a combination of studying for a recognised qualification and valuable work-based learning, giving you the opportunity to earn while you learn. For all our apprenticeships, you'll study with the University for the equivalent of a minimum of six hours per week, with the remainder of your time being spent at work.
In England, advanced apprenticeships are level 3 qualifications and are generally considered to be the equivalent of two passes at A Level.
Higher apprenticeships are level 4 and 5 qualifications. Level 4 apprenticeships are equivalent to the first year of undergraduate degree study or a Higher National Certificate (HNC), while level 5 apprenticeships are equivalent to a foundation degree or Higher National Diploma (HND).
Degree apprenticeships are level 6 and level 7 qualifications, the equivalent to a bachelor's or master's degree respectively.
Who is an apprenticeship suitable for?
If you're 16 or over, live or spend over 50% of your working time in England, and aren't in full-time education, you can apply for an apprenticeship. You may have recently left school or college and want to enter employment straight away while working towards a qualification, or you might already be established within your field and wish to advance your career further by developing your skills and knowledge.
Our advanced, higher, and degree apprenticeships offer module topics that enhance your skills to effectively carry out the tasks you're responsible for, allowing you to progress and implement learning effectively into both your studies and your profession.
Specific entry requirements will vary depending on the applicant, employer, and apprenticeship you're applying for. View a full list of our apprenticeships.
What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?
There are several benefits of undertaking an apprenticeship and advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships are increasingly becoming a popular choice as they allow you to:
- Work full-time with an employer that values staff development
- Gain in-depth industry-relevant skills and experience
- Earn a salary at the same time you're studying
- Get the support you need to plan and realise your future career aspirations
- Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
- Study tuition-free as costs are covered by your employer and/or government funding.
How to apply for an apprenticeship
To apply for an advanced, higher or degree apprenticeship, you must either have an employer in place to support you or have applied for an apprenticeship vacancy with an organisation that's recruiting apprentices.
If you're interested in applying for one of our apprenticeships and have an employer, please email apprenticeships@sunderland.ac.uk and we'll provide you with the relevant application link.
To search for apprenticeships offered by employers in your area, visit the government website. Our apprenticeships team may also be able to signpost you to employers in our region who are currently recruiting.
Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6 and 7)
Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4 and 5)
Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3)
Apprenticeships news stories
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How our award-winning apprentices have been recognised for their dedication
Two apprentices who have graduated from the University of Sunderland have been recognised for their work at the North East Apprenticeship Awards.
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Why Sunderland’s apprenticeships received top marks from Ofsted
The University of Sunderland’s apprenticeship programmes have been rated ‘Good’ with one ‘Outstanding’ feature by Ofsted.
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First students start their learning and development journey at Health and Care Academy
The first students to attend the state-of-the-art Northumbria Health and Care Academy have started their learning journeys.
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How the new podiatry apprenticeship is helping students get a foot in the door
A brand-new apprenticeship has been launched by the University of Sunderland to train the next generation of podiatrists.
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National Apprenticeship Week 2024: Charity champion praises University apprenticeship
During National Apprenticeship Week, one of the region’s charity champions has praised her University of Sunderland apprenticeship for helping grow her charity into the success it is today.
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“So many of our apprentices make a positive difference, both within their organisation and the community they serve.”
It was a real celebration of community spirit as the University of Sunderland gathered together to recognise their apprentices who have gone above and beyond to make an exceptional contribution to their communities.
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Contact us
To find out more information about our apprenticeships, please get in touch by emailing us at apprenticeships@sunderland.ac.uk or calling us on 0191 515 3361.