Computer Science Apprenticeships

What’s the difference between Computer Science and IT?

Before we dive in, you might be wondering what the differences between Computer Science and IT actually are? Because they do sound very similar. Both involve computers, but they focus on different things.

Computer Science goes way beyond programming, too. You could work on projects in medicine (like helping develop new cancer treatments), climate science, AI and more. Your computing skills could genuinely change lives.

Looking for a job in IT?

Can you get an apprenticeship in Computer Science?

If you want to become a computer scientist, an apprenticeship is the best path you can take. Computer Science apprenticeships let you combine on-the-job training with studying towards national qualifications equivalent to GCSEs, A-Levels or a university degree.

Deciding what to do after school, college or sixth form is a huge decision, especially when everyone around you seems to be on track to go to university. But there are so many cool things about apprenticeships, you’ll:

• Earn a proper salary from day one

• Gain years of experience

• Even earn a free degree (if you decide on a degree apprenticeship).

What you do during your apprenticeship will depend on where you work, but you'll help build algorithms, analyse hardware issues and create easy-to-use, secure application solutions.

Employers really value practical experience, and a computer science apprenticeship will give you exactly that, making you super employable.

There are four apprenticeship levels available. The one you choose will depend on your age and the qualifications you have.

Level 2 apprenticeship

• Duration: 12 to 18 months

• Age 16+. Two GCSEs (grades 9-4/A*-C)

Level 3 apprenticeship

• Duration: 18 to 24 months

• Age 16+. Five GCSEs (grades 9-4/A*-C)

Higher apprenticeship (Level 4/5)

• Duration: one to four years

• Age 18+. Two A-Levels or equivalent (Level 3 apprenticeship, BTEC, NVQ/SVQ)

Degree apprenticeship (Level 6/7)

• Duration: three to five years

• Age 18+. Three A-Levels and UCAS Points

Want to learn more about how apprenticeships work?

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

I can confidently say that I'm enjoying my apprenticeship. Everyone on my team is very friendly and have warmly welcomed me - I felt like a member of the team quickly after joining. The same goes for my manager, who has created a comfortable work environment for me and helped me to integrate into the team by involving me in ongoing projects and giving me projects of my own to work on. Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice

What skills do you need for Computer Science?

In addition to soft skills like communication, organisation, critical thinking, problem solving and attention to detail, you’ll need a strong bunch of tech skills to ace your role:

• Computer networks

• Data visualisation

• Algorithm development

• Operating system design

• Maths and numerical reasoning

• Database creation and maintenance

• Coding languages (C, Java, HTML, PHP, Python)

• Web development and site hosting

• Digital security and cryptography.

The best part is an apprenticeship will help you build loads of these technicals skills. By the time your apprenticeship ends, you’ll be an expert. 

How much does a computer science apprentice get paid?

How much you earn depends on the level of apprenticeship you do and where you’re based, but you could earn an average of £23,000 per year. A future salary - with more experience - could earn you up to £70,000 per year.

And because you’re a full-time employee, you’ll also get a bunch of the regular employee benefits like paid holiday and pension schemes, plus perks that can include gym membership, cycle-to-work schemes or even lunch allowances.

What jobs can you get with a Computer Science Apprenticeship?

Computer Science apprenticeships will open lots of exciting career doors for you once you’ve finished. Here’s a selection of roles you could do:

• Cyber security consultant - You'll protect confidential data and fix security breaches, sometimes by ethically hacking into systems to find weaknesses before the bad guys do.

• Data analyst - Turn complex data into clear insights that help businesses make smarter decisions. You'll create visualisations and present findings to senior teams.

• Software engineer - Build and improve software for everything from business apps to video games, using maths and coding to bring ideas to life.

• UX designer - Make websites and apps easy and enjoyable to use. Think of it as designing the perfect customer journey.

How do you apply for a Computer Science apprenticeship?

Most apprenticeships open applications between September and March for programmes starting the following September. However, some employers recruit year-round, so it's worth checking regularly.

The process starts with an online apprenticeship application where you'll submit your CV and cover letter. If you're successful, you'll be invited to an assessment centre where you'll take part in group tasks, complete psychometric tests and have a face-to-face interview.

Ready to get started? Check out all our application advice, where you’ll find everything from crafting a CV to acing your assessment centre and interviews.