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IT & tech apprenticeships

Software, cyber security, cloud, data, DevOps and AI, Level 3 to degree. Earn from day one, finish with no student debt, and a qualification that maps to real graduate-level tech roles.

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What is an IT apprenticeship?

An IT apprenticeship pays you to work in tech while training towards a recognised qualification, in software development, cyber security, data, networking or IT support. UK programmes run from Level 3 to degree apprenticeships, take 18 months to four years, and rarely require prior coding experience to start.

Last reviewed by the Shine careers team.

Tech routes on Shine

Software development

Full-stack, frontend, backend and mobile, Level 3, 4 and degree apprenticeships.

Cyber security

Cyber security technologist, SOC analyst and ethical hacking apprenticeships.

Cloud & DevOps

AWS, Azure, GCP cloud engineer and DevOps apprenticeships across UK employers.

Data analyst & engineer

Data analyst (L4) and data engineer (L6) apprenticeships in finance, retail, public sector.

IT support & infrastructure

IT support technician (L3), network engineer and infrastructure technician routes.

AI & machine learning

Emerging AI/ML and data scientist degree apprenticeships with top UK tech employers.

IT apprenticeship FAQs

Straight answers to the questions UK applicants ask most about IT and tech apprenticeships.

What IT apprenticeships are available?
UK IT apprenticeships cover software development, cyber security, cloud engineering (AWS, Azure, GCP), data analyst and data engineer, DevOps, IT support and infrastructure technician, network engineer, and newer AI/ML engineering routes. Levels run from 3 (Advanced) to 6 (Degree).
How much do IT apprentices earn?
Level 3 IT apprentices typically start at £16,000–£22,000. Level 4–6 digital and degree apprenticeships often pay £22,000–£32,000, with big tech, banks and consultancies (BT, BAE, JPMorgan, Accenture, Deloitte) paying £28,000–£40,000+ in London and major hubs.
Can I get a software developer apprenticeship with no experience?
Yes. Level 3 and 4 software development apprenticeships are designed for people with no professional coding experience. Employers look for logical thinking, problem solving, and genuine interest, a few small personal projects, an online course, or a hackathon help your application.
Are tech degree apprenticeships better than a computer science degree?
For many people, yes. Degree apprenticeships in digital and technology solutions give you the same Level 6 qualification as a degree, plus 4+ years of paid full-time work experience, no tuition fees, and a clear graduate-level role at the end. University suits research, deep theory or international study.
What GCSEs do I need for an IT apprenticeship?
Most Level 3 IT apprenticeships ask for GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above in maths and English. Level 6 degree apprenticeships in software or cyber typically need A levels, T Levels or a Level 3 BTEC, usually including maths.
Which tech apprenticeship has the best career prospects?
Cyber security, cloud engineering, data engineering and AI/ML currently have the strongest UK demand and salary growth. Software development remains the largest entry route. Shine's quiz matches your strengths to the specific tech apprenticeships most likely to suit you.

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Related guides

Part of Shine's apprenticeship guide series, plain-English answers, updated regularly.