Skip to content
Degree Apprenticeship

Software Engineer

This is a level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship, of which there are four pathways: Software Engineer, Cyber Security Analyst, Data Analyst and Network Engineer.

Looking to begin an apprenticeship?

About the Digital Technology Solutions (Software Engineer) Degree Apprenticeship

The Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship is designed to allow learners to specialise in one of four areas:

Learners combine work and study to build core skills and knowledge required for the implementation, maintenance and support of security controls that protect an organisation’s systems and data assets from threats and hazards.

Apprentices start to specialise from year two, and they graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Digital and Technology Solutions.

Teaching is delivered over 3 years via weekly day release, and the programme is coursework based, meaning no exams (as these do not replicate real-world working environments in the computing industry).

This apprenticeship is accredited by TechSkills – the industry accreditation body for digital and tech education. It means that our apprenticeship meets the high industry standards set by TechSkills for quality and tech/digital career relevance.

Working in partnership with:

Tech Industry Gold accredited by TechSkills

What are Degree Apprenticeships?

Degree apprenticeships are a fantastic way to upskill employees and train new staff. They contribute to improved competitiveness and productivity, as well as increased staff retention.

Degree apprentices study for higher level qualifications alongside working. As such, they spend at least 6 working hours each week carrying out ‘off-the-job training’ where they study for their degree and gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that are required to successfully complete the apprenticeship.

Large employers can use their apprenticeships levy to pay for apprenticeship training. Smaller firms can claim up to 95 per cent of these costs from the Government. This means apprenticeships are a cost-effective choice for both the employer and learner.

Dr Jordan Allison

Meet the lecturer

Dr Jordan Allison, Academic Course Leader

Jordan teaches across a range of modules at both undergraduate and postgraduate level such as computers and security and information security management.

He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a member of the Association of Computing Machinery, and a professional member of the British Computer Society where he is the industry liaison officer for the Gloucester and Cheltenham branch.

His research interests focus on the advancement of effective computing education with his recent research focusing on the teaching of networking and security.

Modules

Testimonial

Apprentice perspective

Ethan Scutts

“I’m currently in my second year as a Digital Technology Solutions apprentice and in these two years I have learnt so much. The modules took a more general approach in year one, studying a wide range of topics.

I specialised on to the software engineer pathway in year two, as I found this was most suited to me and what I wanted to achieve. So far this year we have covered IOT development and agile methods, both of which I have found enjoyable and informative. It offers a nice mix between traditional and hands-on learning, working with physical hardware and software.”

Ethan Scutts,
Junior AWS (Amazon Web Services) Engineer, St James’s Place Wealth Management

Park Campus

This apprenticeship will be delivered in our state-of-the-art computing and technology facilities on Park Campus in Cheltenham.

This centre for all things computing includes a dedicated cyber security lab where learners can practice their new skills in a digitally protected, authentic environment with an isolated network.

There are purpose-built computing suites kitted out wit the latest tools and operating systems, such as Android, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Drones, Photoshop, Microsoft, Oracle and Cisco. Plus, there are breakout areas for workshop sessions, games consoles and screens in social areas, and the latest computing technology and software. There is a strong sense of community, with staff and learners sharing both work and relaxation space.

Entry requirements

A Note for Employers of Apprentices in the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences

Earlier this year, the Government announced changes to the English and maths requirements for completing an apprenticeship. We’ve taken some time to review what this means for our apprenticeships in the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences. To make sure every apprentice has the support they need, we’ll continue to offer access to functional skills programmes through our trusted local subcontractor—this is for anyone who doesn’t already have evidence of English and maths qualifications. If your apprentice decides not to take up this opportunity, we’ll just need a quick confirmation from you, as their employer, to let us know they’re opting out.

If you have any questions or would like to chat through this, we’re here to help—just get in touch.

Contact the client manager

Head and shoulders photo of Sophie Burch smiling.

Sophie Burch

Register your interest in this apprenticeship

Fill in the form below and we’ll send you the very latest updates about this apprenticeship.