Developing future-ready talent: ARU's degree apprenticeships
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ARU has seen a significant rise in degree apprentice starts, reflecting a national trend. In the 2023/24 academic year, over 3,000 apprentices enrolled across our 27 degree pathways, ranging from nursing to engineering to data science.
Key benefits
Meeting skills demand: degree apprenticeships address local and regional skill shortages while providing a practical route to degree education for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Gaining hands-on experience: Rachel, a Nursing Degree Apprentice, appreciates the hands-on experience combined with ARU’s supportive teaching environment. "I’m 51 and it works for my life. I bring all my past life and career experience while balancing family life," she says. Earning while learning enables career advancement for people like Rachel.
Lifelong skills: Kerry, a Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice, highlights the programme’s comprehensive skill development. "The scheme sets you up with skills for life," she says. Her day-to-day job is enriched by the theory she learns, helping her become a well-rounded manager.
Employer partnerships: Over 850 employers trust ARU with their apprenticeship programmes. Our degree apprenticeships help businesses attract top talent and develop their workforce cost-effectively. Joe, CEO of Rhotic Media, affirms: "ARU completely understands businesses." This collaboration benefits the University, partner organisations, and our talented apprentices.
As a leading provider of degree apprenticeships in the East of England, ARU has supported over 6,000 degree apprentices to date. We continue to help local businesses thrive while offering life-changing opportunities for students.
"The apprenticeship has genuinely changed my life, and to have an employer like Kier who are so supportive and have the right tools to shape me to become the right person for the job. When I first applied, I had a feeling it would be a really good opportunity, but now I’m here, I realise that it has been the best decision I’ve ever made."
Roisin, Construction Management Degree Apprentice"The apprenticeship pushes my knowledge and makes me think deeper into why people commit crime and the positive impact I can have on my community."
Grace, Police Constable Degree Apprentice"I chose the apprenticeship because I was able to continue working and did not lose any financial benefits. I was able to study at any pace in harmony with my life as a family man."
Temidayo, Nursing Degree Apprentice