Become a graduate apprentice
Delivery arrangements
A graduate apprenticeship is a work-based learning degree at SQQF level 9 (ordinary degree) or SCQF level 10 (honours degree) and the same level of qualification obtained by a learner following the traditional route to a degree.
Depending on whether you finish with an ordinary or honours degree, the graduate apprenticeship will take three or four years to complete.
The split between attendance at UHI Inverness and work-based activities will vary depending on the graduate apprenticeship programme and the course level but is approximately an 80:20 split of work-based learning to on-campus learning.
Typically, apprentices will attend classes at UHI Inverness on a day release basis and engage in work-based learning activities and self-directed learning during the working week and in their own time. Further details can be provided by the Business Solutions Team and/or the lecturing staff.
Graduate apprenticeships involve both traditional university education and work-based learning. Teaching methods include lectures, groupwork/project work and mentoring sessions. The graduate apprenticeship is designed to capture and accredit learning opportunities in the workplace. This may include project-based tasks, professional training and developing soft skills or meta-skills. Apprentices will build a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their learning and development.


Eligibility and entry requirements
- Apprentices must be 16 years of age or older, work a minimum of 21 hours per week.
- Entry requirements are based on the requirements of similar degree programmes and recognise previous experience.
- Advanced entry to second year may be possible if you possess relevant previous qualifications or experience.
- Employers and UHI Inverness staff will fully support new and existing employees to study towards a graduate apprenticeship and gain a degree.
What are the benefits of studying a graduate apprenticeship?
- Graduate apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, who lives and works in Scotland.
- You can gain access to a debt-free degree whilst in employment.
- Work-based projects are a key part of a graduate apprenticeship. Your lecturer and employer will make sure projects are both interesting and relevant to your role.
- Even if you already have a degree, you can still qualify for GA funding and apply, as long as it is not in the same subject area as your existing degree.
- You can enjoy access to all UHI Inverness facilities, support services and student discounts.
- You’ll be able to apply your learning to real tasks and projects in the workplace, which contributes towards your qualification.
- A graduate apprenticeship provides the opportunity to progress your career.


How to apply
- Gain the support and agreement from your employer to undertake a graduate apprenticeship.
- Contact our business solutions team by emailing app.ic@uhi.ac.uk.
- Complete a learner registration/enrolment – IS THIS CORRECT??, which is signed by the apprentice and the employer before returning to the business solutions team.
- Following your application, you will need to complete an SAAS funding application for each year of study to ensure that your fees are paid. Contact the student funding team on 01463 273208 or email support.ic@uhi.ac.uk
- Return your SAAS funding confirmation and SDS learner registration form – NOT SURE OF THIS PROCESS to app.ic@uhi.ac.uk
At the end of each year/6 months, graduate apprentices are required to complete a progress review form?? – NOT SURE OF THIS PROCESS.