Design Degree Apprenticeships

What is a design degree apprenticeship?

As a design degree apprentice, you’ll work towards a Level 6 (Bachelor’s) or Level 7 (Master’s) qualification that combines university with a real job at a chosen company.

During your degree apprenticeship, you’ll spend around four days on the job getting to grips with everything design, and you’ll spend one day a week studying at university. Degree apprenticeships usually last between three and five years, depending on the design route you choose.

The best part? Your employer pays your tuition fees. So that means zero student loans, zero debt and a real salary from day one.

Not quite ready for a degree apprenticeship? You have options!

So what do you actually do in a design degree apprenticeship?

That really depends on what type of design pathway you’ve taken. And there’s really something for everyone, too. You'll find design degree apprenticeships across finance, retail, music, tech, publishing, media and government.

Some types of design degree apprenticeships include:

• Architectural technology. You'll work on the technical side of building design, creating detailed drawings and plans that turn ideas into real structures

• Animation. Bringing characters, stories and ideas to life, working on everything from TV shows and films to games and advertising

• Product design. You'll design products people use every day, from furniture and tech gadgets to packaging and more.

• UX design. Designing online experiences that are easy to use and intuitive

• VFX artist. You'll create visual effects for film, TV and games by building everything from explosive action sequences to making backgrounds pop.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll develop your creative skills through working with clients to deliver briefs, use digital tools, research, work on branding, use data, and so much more.

The path you choose will 2000% depend on your interests, but many skills overlap. So you'll likely experience different areas during your apprenticeship.

Here’s what this degree apprentice got up to at Savills:

I have learnt many new skills during my apprenticeship, including the ability to use various software, such as InDesign, Illustrator, PowerPoint, Premiere Pro and After Effects, contributing to my development as a designer. Not only have I developed the skills required to create bespoke, designed graphics, but I've also learnt how to communicate clearly and professionally, as well as considerably improving my organisation and time management skills. Digital Design Apprentice, Savills

What qualifications do I need for a design degree apprenticeship?

Entry requirements can vary depending on the employer and university; however, you’ll usually need:

• At least two to three A-Levels or a Level 3 qualification or equivalent

• A strong portfolio

• Between 96 to 120 UCAS points.

You’ll also need to be age 18+.

Outside of that, employers really want to know if you care about the role. That’s where your portfolio comes in. Let's find out more.

Do I need a portfolio for a design degree apprenticeship?

YES! And here’s the thing, it doesn’t have to be filled with professional industry work. Your passion projects, school or college work, and any work you’ve done are all just as good - in fact, they actually show off your passion for design.

Haven’t got a portfolio yet? That’s okay. Now’s the time! The best thing about it is, there are plenty of free online portfolio builder options out there. Some include:

• Canva

• Behance

• Archifolio

• PortfolioBox.

What you include is totally up to you, but four or five pieces of really stunning work will do the trick. You can include designs such as posters, logos, imaginary brands, building and plan sketches.

Don’t be afraid to show how you came up with your ideas, too. Employers are interested in the process; it helps them to see your creative process in real-time.

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to work for the BBC? Here’s what one apprentice said about their time there:

The BBC is such an inviting and exciting place to work at, no matter what team you work in. Although the BBC is a massive company, it doesn't feel intimidating or intense to work here. They are committed to supporting everyone at the company to set them up for success. UX&D Degree Apprentice, BBC

How much do design degree apprentices get paid?

As a design apprentice, you’ll earn a real wage from day one. How much you’re paid varies from employer to employer, but most employers pay between £20,000 and £28,000 per year. Plus, you’ll get a free degree, so no student debt.

Degree apprenticeships usually get a pay rise every year, how much by depends on your employer. So there’s potential to earn lots more before becoming fully qualified.

As a full-time employee, you’ll also get a truckload of benefits that can include gym memberships, cycle to work schemes, free lunch and more. They’ll usually outline these in the job description, or you can ask about them at your interview.

Once you’ve finished your apprenticeship, venture into the industry and gain more experience - the more you’ll get paid. 

Looking to become an architect? You could earn up to £58,000. As a graphic designer, you could earn around £40,000.

How to apply for a design degree apprenticeship

Once you’ve found a degree apprenticeship you love, you’ll need to apply! The process is pretty simple.

You’ll start with an online application where you’ll fill in some basic details about yourself, including your CV and cover letter and a link to your portfolio. 

Always make sure to tailor your application for each job you apply to. This is also your chance to wow employers off the bat, so be sure to show your enthusiasm for the role and company.

You’ll then be invited to an apprenticeship assessment centre where you’ll take part in group tasks, show off your portfolio and have your final one-to-one interview.

Need a little help getting started? We’ve got you covered. Download our free application toolkit; it’s packed with everything you need.