The rise of degree apprenticeships: why the competition is stronger than ever

As many students across the UK prepare for the new academic year, there is a small group of individuals making a choice that will put them steps ahead of their peers.  

While university is traditionally the next stage in academia, a growing number of young people are turning to degree apprenticeships, and the competition has never been fiercer.  

The BBC revealed last month that competition for degree apprenticeships in England has quadrupled over the past three years - from 2.8 applications for every Level 6 apprenticeship position in 2023-24 to 11.3 applications in 2025-26. 

For years, apprenticeships have been viewed as a second option, or only available to trade careers. Today, the opposite is true. With students able to earn a salary, gain hands-on experience and graduate debt-free, degree apprenticeships have become one of the most sought-after routes into professional careers. 

As a degree apprentice in the PR industry, I've experienced first-hand the benefits of combining academic learning with agency life. While friends are preparing for lectures, I'm building client relationships, creating campaigns, and developing skills that will shape my career. 

At Democracy we have had more than 400 applications for the last three years of intake. Each year, we partner with Manchester Metropolitan University to bring two Digital Apprentices into our team. 

Over the course of the four-year programme, they gain hands-on industry experience, work towards a first-class degree, and graduate debt-free, leaving them ready to take the next step into Junior Account Manager roles. 

As Freshers’ Week approaches, the message is clear: degree apprenticeships are no longer education's best-kept secret. For many students, they're now the ultimate prize.  

The competition may be tougher than ever, but that only reinforces their growing status as one of the most attractive pathways into the world of work.