Best degree apprenticeships UK 2026
A practical shortlist across major sectors, based on qualification, typical advertised pay and career route. It is not a league table, and programmes change each intake.
How we selected examples: sector coverage, funded qualifications, typical advertised salary and a clear progression route. Check live vacancies for current availability, pay and entry requirements.
Level 6
Qualification awarded
Equivalent to a full honours degree, recognised by all UK employers
£18k–£38k
Starting salary range
Paid throughout, on work days and study days
£0
Tuition fees owed
Employer and government levy cover all degree costs
Top degree apprenticeship programmes 2026
Software Engineering DA
A London-based technology route with a funded qualification and structured engineering experience.
PwC
Finance£26k–£32kDegree Apprenticeship (Audit / Tax / Tech)
ACA fully funded. Structured career path with annual salary reviews and global mobility.
Clifford Chance
Law£25k–£35kSolicitor Apprenticeship
Magic Circle firm. SQE-route to qualified solicitor, no LPC required.
Rolls-Royce
Engineering£21k–£28kEngineering Degree Apprenticeship
Aerospace and defence engineering. IMechE accredited BEng. Derby and Bristol bases.
Amazon
Technology£25k–£35kSoftware Engineering DA
Strong benefits package. Fast-paced engineering environment with clear progression.
KPMG
Finance£22k–£29kSchool Leaver Degree Apprenticeship
ACA funded. Big Four brand with structured mentoring and defined qualification pathway.
GCHQ
Cyber Security£22k–£30kCyber & Software DA
NCSC-certified. Security clearance fully sponsored. Unique national security career path.
NHS
Healthcare£20k–£29kNursing Degree Apprenticeship
NMC-registered RN on completion. Agenda for Change pay bands with London supplement.
Browse by sector
Technology & Software
Google, Amazon, BT, IBM, BAE Systems
Finance & Accounting
PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY, Barclays
Law & Solicitor
Clifford Chance, Linklaters, HSF, Ashurst
Engineering
Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Siemens, Dyson
Cyber Security
GCHQ, BAE Systems, BT Security, MoD
Data Science
Experian, Capital One, NHS, Civil Service
Nursing & Healthcare
NHS Trusts across England
Find your degree apprenticeship
Browse live degree apprenticeship roles updated daily from UK employers.
More on degree apprenticeships
Frequently asked questions
Which companies offer well-known degree apprenticeships in the UK?▾
Well-known UK degree apprenticeship employers include Google, PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Amazon, Clifford Chance, and the NHS. Compare each live programme by qualification, location, pay, entry requirements, and the career route that suits you.
What is the highest paying degree apprenticeship in the UK?▾
Pay changes by intake, role and location, so there is no permanent highest-paying programme. Finance and technology vacancies can advertise higher starting salaries, but the current vacancy is the source of truth.
Are degree apprenticeships competitive to get into?▾
Some large-employer programmes attract many applications, but employers do not consistently publish acceptance rates. Entry criteria and competition vary by programme, location and intake, so apply across a balanced shortlist rather than relying on one employer.
Are degree apprenticeships as good as going to university?▾
Both routes can lead to a degree and a strong career. A degree apprenticeship combines paid work with structured study and no apprentice tuition fee, while university offers a different academic and social experience. The better fit depends on the course, employer, learning style and career goal.