Our higher and degree apprenticeships range from Level 4 to Level 7 and blend hands-on work experience with academic study. Apprentices can gain qualifications such as diplomas, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees. Some courses also include industry-relevant professional certifications.
In a typical week, apprentices spend around 80% of their time working and at least 20% engaged in ‘off-the-job’ learning. This ensures they build their practical skills while developing advanced knowledge that enhances their performance and contributes to your business’s success.
What are the benefits of apprenticeships for employers?
Investing in apprenticeships offers significant benefits for both your employees and your business. Apprenticeships provide accessible pathways to Higher Education for people from diverse background. This helps you to build a skilled and motivated workforce. Key benefits include:
- Attracting and developing new talent
- Enabling existing staff to upskill and progress
- Boosting retention and reducing recruitment costs
- Enhancing productivity, quality, and delivery
- Strengthening specialist expertise within your team.
"I would advise any other organisations moving forward to consider the long-term impact apprenticeships can have on staff wellbeing, morale, and confidence, but also on the effectiveness of the team. We were supported every step of the way by the University of Sunderland."
Our apprenticeship courses
Funding for apprenticeships
Government funding supports higher and degree apprenticeships to help cover training costs. Larger businesses (with a wage bill over £3 million) pay an apprenticeship levy of 0.5% of their wage bill, minus a £15,000 allowance. This funds apprenticeships through the Digital Apprenticeship Service portal. The government adds a 10% top-up to these funds.
Smaller businesses contribute as little as 5% of apprenticeship costs, with the government covering the rest. Companies with fewer than 50 employees receive 100% funding for apprentices aged 16-19. Employers can use funds to train new or existing employees.
New funding rules will be introduced from 1st August 2026.
What training will I need to provide for apprentices?
On the job and off the job training will teach your apprentices the knowledge, skills, and behaviours set out in the apprenticeship standard. This is so they can achieve occupational competence.
How do I register an apprentice?
Set up an account on Government Gateway(opens in new tab) and register on the apprenticeship service. You'll be able to access funding, advertise vacancies, find training providers, and give feedback on apprenticeship training.
Contact us
To find out more, please get in touch by emailing us at apprenticeships@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab) or calling us on 0191 515 3361(opens in new tab).