5 Myths About Degree Apprenticeships You Probably Believe—And the Truth Behind Them
“Degree apprenticeships don’t give real degrees”
“Apprenticeships are only for people who didn’t get into uni”
“You can only get apprenticeships in construction”
Do these sound familiar? Or maybe you believe in one of these statements. Degree apprenticeships are pretty new schemes, and they have loads of myths floating around them. The sad thing is, these myths are holding people back from discovering one of the most exciting career paths out there!
Let’s be real - degree apprenticeships are smashing game changers. You get a super package - a REAL uni degree (One that people pay thousands for!), real work experience, and a salary. Still unconvinced about some things? Let’s bust 5 common myths about degree apprenticeships and show you why they’re the future you didn’t know you needed.
Myth 1: Degree Apprenticeships Don’t Offer Real University Degrees
"Degree apprenticeships don’t lead to a proper uni degree— you can only go to uni for a degree”
The Truth:
This is so wrong! When you study for a degree in a degree apprenticeship, you’re getting the same exact one that a full time student would study for. The only difference between you and them, is that you’re graduating with years of real world experience, and a degree without the crushing student debt.
Whether your degree is from Warwick, Aston, or Manchester Met, it’s 100% legit and fully accredited. Employers love the combo of a candidate with a degree and real experience - it’s like getting 2 items for the price of 1. AND you get paid to study!
Why It Matters:
When you hit the job market as a young person, you won’t just blend in with the others as a grad with “great Microsoft 365 skills”. You’re actually experienced in the industry, and you’re going to be miles ahead of the other grads, some who have the same degree as you. In fact, according to UCAS, a recent survey showed that two thirds of employers look for graduates with relevant work experience. Completing a degree apprenticeship makes you a perfect fit, especially as employers are now looking for more of work experience, instead of qualifications.
Myth 2: Degree Apprenticeships Are Only for Trades Like Plumbing or Construction
“Apprenticeships are only for people who want to learn how to lay bricks or paint”
Sure, apprenticeships were and are popular in construction. But these days, degree apprenticeships have seriously levelled up. Think law, digital marketing, finance, tech, healthcare—basically nearly every industry you can imagine are embracing this scheme. And it’s growing.
From developing software..
To managing real big budgets..
To leading a marketing campaign…
To travelling the world to meet business clients…
Degree apprenticeships are opening doors to creative and professional careers that people thought only came with a uni degree.
Why It Matters:
The world is changing REALLY fast. More and more companies are understanding the value of degree apprenticeships for their company.
And bonus: you’ll actually use the skills you’re learning, instead of sitting in lectures wondering, “When will I ever need to know this?” No time wasted at all.
Many big brands offer a wide range of schemes. For example, Samsung is one company that offers degree apprenticeships in fields such as technical, marketing, sales and finance.
Myth 3: You Won’t Get Paid Enough to Live Comfortably
"Apprenticeships aren’t well paid. You’ll be broke while your mates are having fun at uni partying."
The Truth:
Forget this myth. Degree apprentices are paid a salary from day one. And we’re not talking peanuts. Depending on the industry, you could be making anywhere from £20,000 to over £34,620. That’s crazy!
Why It Matters:
Imagine this. You’re earning, learning, and launching your future career all at the same time. Compare this to your uni friends who live on instant noodles, and watch their student debt stack up everyday.
Myth 4: You’ll Miss Out on the ‘University Experience’
“Degree apprentices miss out on freshers’ week, societies and all the fun. Super boring! They never get a uni life”
The Truth:
Sure, your experience of uni will be different from a full time student. But if you’re a motivated and passionate person who really cares about their future, who says it’s a bad thing? Many degree apprenticeship programs have on-campus days, so you can still make friends at uni. You can also still join societies, and you’ll have the same perks as a normal student.
Plus, you’ll have the kind of work and personal experiences no full-time student gets—like attending real networking events, leading team projects, and learning how to boss your time like a pro.
Why It Matters:
You’ll graduate with a uni experience and a super bright career. While your friends spend weeks and months searching for a job, you’ll already be thriving in yours.
Myth 5: Degree Apprenticeships Are Easier to Get Than University Offers
"Apprenticeships are for people who didn’t get the grades for uni."
The Truth:
Oh no, no, no! Degree apprenticeships are seriously competitive. Most programs have hundreds of applications for just a few spots. And the process? CV submissions, assessment centres, interviews—it’s like applying for a senior role without even finishing school.
Why It Matters:
If you’re ready to put in the effort, the rewards are super worth it. With the right preparation (hello, Apprentice Launchpad resources!), you can stand out easily and secure your future. When I was applying, I faced rejection more times than I’d like to admit. But once I learned how to ace my application strategy, things turned around. Now, we share those same exact strategies through Apprentice Launchpad so you don’t have to struggle like I did.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back
These 5 myths are stopping people from discovering the amazing opportunities degree apprenticeships offer. Whether it’s earning a real degree, getting once in a lifetime opportunities, or entering the job market with a breeze, these schemes combine the best of all worlds. They’re not just a “plan B”—they’re a super smart, forward-thinking way to graduate with real skills, real experience, and zero student debt.
So, what’s holding you back? Don’t let these outdated myths stop you from exploring this incredible opportunity to secure your future.
Ready to take the next step?
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