Apprenticeship glossary

Higher education

What does Higher education mean?

Study at Level 4 and above, such as foundation degrees, HNDs and university degrees. Higher and degree apprenticeships include higher education study.

Apprentice
Someone doing an apprenticeship: an employee who is paid to work and train towards a recognised qualification at the same time.
Apprenticeship
A real, paid job where you also train towards a recognised qualification. In England at least 20% of your normal working hours are spent training, and you don't pay tuition fees.
Degree apprenticeship
An apprenticeship at Level 6 or 7 in England (Level 6 in Wales) where you can get a bachelor's or master's degree while working. Not every Level 6 or 7 apprenticeship includes a degree.
Foundation degree
A qualification at Level 5, below a full bachelor's degree. Most of Northern Ireland's Higher Level Apprenticeships are at this level.
Higher (Scotland)
The main qualification Scottish pupils take in S5 and S6, at SCQF Level 6. Many employers accept Highers in place of A levels.
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Northern Ireland's apprenticeships from Level 4 to Level 7. They let you get qualifications up to Master's level without paying higher education tuition fees.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.