At BU, we offer degree-level apprenticeships that combine hands-on experience with expert academic learning.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking to upskill, our apprenticeships help you gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to succeed in your chosen field.
Find out more about apprenticeships at BU Explore our subject areas
If you’re an employer looking into working with apprentices, please visit our employers page.
An Ofsted inspection of BU’s apprenticeship provision in June 2024 judged it to be Outstanding.
For questions and enquiries, please get in touch via our contact form.
Why choose an apprenticeship?
- Get paid to learn. You’ll earn a salary—at least the National Minimum Apprenticeship Wage—with protected study time built into your workweek. Full-time apprentices must complete a minimum of 6 hours per week of off-the-job training (equating to at least 187 hours over an 8‑month programme, or more depending on your apprenticeship standard) This time is part of your paid working hours and flexible in how it’s delivered—such as in-day blocks, online, or in college .
- No student debt. No tuition fees. No student loans. Your training costs are fully covered by your employer through the Apprenticeship Levy – making this a cost-effective route to gaining a university degree.
- Real work experience. You’ll be embedded in the workplace from day one, gaining valuable experience and developing practical skills that employers are looking for.
What you’ll learn
Apprenticeship training is delivered through:
- Practical, on-the-job experience
- Academic lectures and workshops at Bournemouth University
- Regular opportunities to apply new knowledge in real-world settings
This blended learning approach helps you build confidence, sharpen your skills, and boost your career prospects.
Additional support
Our Additional Learning Support (ALS) department has a team focused entirely on supporting our apprenticeship students.
More about apprenticeships at BU
Levels of degree apprenticeships
Eligibility criteria and entry requirements
End point assessment (EPA)
Our apprenticeship community
Our apprenticeship subject areas
Healthcare
Apprenticeship courses in healthcare
- Registered Nursing Degree Apprenticeships
- Nursing Associate Apprenticeship - Bournemouth and Poole College
- Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship
- Social Work Degree Apprenticeship
- Biomedical Science Degree Apprenticeship
- Advanced Clinical Practitioner Apprenticeship
- Enhanced Clinical Practitioner Apprenticeship
Law, Business & Accounting apprenticeships
Apprenticeship courses in Accounting, Business & Law
“Understanding the theory behind some of the leadership traits that I already (unconsciously) exhibit daily has been fascinating and has strengthened my self-confidence, as well as opened up new areas for me to explore and develop further.”
- Kerry Jalie, Strategic Portfolio Manager for the NHS
Engineering
As part of the Manufacturing Engineer and Product Design and Development Engineer apprenticeship programmes, apprentices complete an Engineering Council-accredited BEng (Hons) Engineering degree, which has been developed specifically for engineers in employment. Before progressing to the Bachelor's level at Bournemouth University, the apprentice will study an HNC and FdEng in Engineering at Bournemouth and Poole College.
We offer four pathways to suit the needs of both the apprentice and the employer (Mechanical Design, Manufacturing Management, Electronic Design and Marine Technologies). All programmes have been designed to be delivered in part-time day release and flexible learning modes.
Apprenticeship courses in Engineering
“One of the greatest benefits of an apprenticeship is the mentorship and support from experienced professionals in the field. This relationship has been crucial for my development, allowing me to transition from a traditional apprenticeship to a degree pathway.”
- Elliott Smith, Dorset Apprenticeship Awards 2024 winner