Both these apprenticeships are closely linked - however, there are some differences between higher and degree apprenticeships. Higher apprenticeships offer you the opportunity to earn while you work towards a Level 4 qualification or above. These could be a Higher National Diploma, a professional certification or a foundation degree. Degree apprenticeships, on the other hand, enable you to complete an apprenticeship programme with a full Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

You’ll also be earning a wage during this period, as well as get a paid-for professional qualification that is nationally and often, internationally, recognised. These certainly make it a great alternative to the student debt that you may otherwise incur going down the traditional further and higher education pathway.

Higher apprenticeships can often last between one and five years, depending on the level of qualification that you work towards, as well as the individual employer’s programme. You could also choose to top up a higher apprenticeship with a degree-level one, and these could take slightly longer to complete.

Like all other apprenticeships, higher apprentices are also paid a wage throughout the duration of the apprenticeship programme. However, the rate of pay can differ significantly depending on the employer, the industry and the level of the higher apprenticeship. As a general rule, the higher the level of the apprenticeship, the better the way.
For instance, a Level 4 Retail Management apprenticeship could have a starting salary of £17,000 per year while a Level 6 Digital Marketing apprentice could start at circa £20,000.