The OU helping firms find their digital edge

Before we begin - an introduction to degree apprenticeships

In 2015, the UK Government rolled out the degree apprenticeship programme which was developed as part of the higher apprenticeship standard. The programme is the equivalent of a bachelor's or master's  degree, which offers a level 6 or  7 qualification respectively.

A degree apprenticeship enables you to gain a full undergraduate or master’s degree while you work. Degree apprenticeships take three to six years to complete, depending on the course level. You’ll spend most of your time working and you’ll also study part-time at university. For example, you might go to university one or two days per week, or in short blocks, such as a week at a time. Overall, you spend about 20% of your time studying vs. 80% of your time working.

(Note that degree apprenticeships operate differently across the UK’s devolved nations).

The challenge Open University is addressing

In this case study, the Open