Degree apprentice Review
at Unilever
Degree Apprenticeship
Chemistry, Research
Port Sunlight
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4.4 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I am a Degree Apprentice in R&D, working for Unilever alongside completing my academic studies. My role involves laboratory work such as preparing samples, running experiments, collecting and analysing data, and accurately documenting results. I work closely with other scientists and engineers within the team to supporting ongoing projects. My role also involves attending project meetings, collaborating/presenting across teams, and balancing practical work with my university work.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my role as it gives me the opportunity to be actively involved in real-world research and development while continuously learning and building new skills. I find particular enjoyment in the hands-on lab work as it allows me to practically support the project I am on.
I also value working alongside experienced lab techs, as this exposure helps me develop both technically and professionally. While balancing work responsibilities with my degree can be tough at times, this aspect has strengthened my time management and resilience.
I also value working alongside experienced lab techs, as this exposure helps me develop both technically and professionally. While balancing work responsibilities with my degree can be tough at times, this aspect has strengthened my time management and resilience.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, I have vastly improved my laboratory technique, specifically following SOPs, sample preparation and data collection. My understanding of R&D processes and the importance of quality, safety, and compliance has also improved significantly.
In addition, I have developed transferable skills such as time management, organisation, and problem-solving, particularly through balancing my work responsibilities with my degree. I have greatly improved my communication skills by working within project teams, participating in meetings, and sharing results with colleagues. Overall, the role has supported both my technical development and my professional growth.
In addition, I have developed transferable skills such as time management, organisation, and problem-solving, particularly through balancing my work responsibilities with my degree. I have greatly improved my communication skills by working within project teams, participating in meetings, and sharing results with colleagues. Overall, the role has supported both my technical development and my professional growth.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The program is generally well organised and structured, providing a clear framework that allows me to develop both academically and professionally. There is a defined balance between my work-based responsibilities in R&D and my university studies, which helps ensure that learning from each element supports the other.
At work, expectations and objectives are clearly set, with guidance from my line manager , mentor and wider team to help me prioritise tasks and understand how my role fits within the business.
The university holds annual residentials that are well organised and strictly planned. There is room for improvement as course dates are known to be changed last minute.
At work, expectations and objectives are clearly set, with guidance from my line manager , mentor and wider team to help me prioritise tasks and understand how my role fits within the business.
The university holds annual residentials that are well organised and strictly planned. There is room for improvement as course dates are known to be changed last minute.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive more than enough support from my employer. They are very understanding as university can be time consuming, and always allow me to take additional time off around coursework/ exam deadlines. They hold the idea that 'university comes first' which reduces the time pressure on me.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My university is always in touch via emails and I attend regular catch ups with my skills coach (my first point of contact with the university) to discuss grades and development. Certain lecturers hold revision classes to assist around exams and are very quick when answering questions via email.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
There is no significant overlap between by degree and me role so far. My course is heavily focused on analytical chemistry whereas my role is more formulation based but there are definitely points in which my course has assisted my role and visa versa.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are many extra-curricular opportunities at Unilever. There are yoga/Pilates classes during lunch, an onsite gym, annual cross country runs and a choir. There are regular networking events during the day and opportunities to travel for networking purposes. During certain holidays there are quizzes and bingo events with prizes to be won. Apprentices have their own events outside of work additionally which are always fun!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Unilever is such a large company with so many different opportunities. No matter the subject or role type, there is always something available for everyone. The community is strong and there is always someone to offer help if needed. The company has many extra-curricular opportunities and an overall positive environment.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?
Have confidence in your ideas and believe in yourself.
