STEM apprenticeships

STEM routes on Shine

STEM apprenticeship FAQs

Straight answers to the questions UK applicants and parents ask most about STEM apprenticeships.

What is a STEM apprenticeship?

A STEM apprenticeship is a paid training role in Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths. You work full-time for an employer (typically 4 days a week) and study for a recognised qualification (1 day a week or in blocks) — from Level 3 up to a full bachelor's or master's degree apprenticeship.

What STEM apprenticeships are available in the UK?

UK STEM apprenticeships cover engineering (mechanical, electrical, civil, aerospace, manufacturing), software development, cyber security, data and AI, laboratory science, nuclear, energy, chemical and pharmaceutical sciences, and quantitative finance. Most run from Level 3 to Level 6 or 7 (degree and master's).

Why do a STEM apprenticeship instead of a STEM degree?

STEM degree apprenticeships give you the same university-awarded degree as a traditional student, plus a salary, 4+ years of full-time technical work experience, no tuition fees, and a clear graduate-level role at the end. For many STEM careers (engineering, tech, lab science), employers now actively prefer apprenticeship graduates.

How much do STEM apprentices earn in the UK?

Level 3 STEM apprentices typically start at £16,000–£22,000. Level 4–6 routes pay £20,000–£32,000, with degree apprenticeships at large STEM employers (Rolls-Royce, BAE, GSK, AstraZeneca, Network Rail, big tech, big banks) often paying £25,000–£40,000+ in their first year.

What GCSEs or A-levels do I need for a STEM apprenticeship?

Level 3 STEM apprenticeships usually ask for GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above in maths, English and (often) a science. Level 6 STEM degree apprenticeships typically need A-levels, T-levels or a Level 3 BTEC including maths, and often a science or further maths for engineering and physics routes.

Which STEM apprenticeships are in highest demand in the UK?

Cyber security, software, data and AI, electrical and mechanical engineering, nuclear and energy, and laboratory science all show acute UK skills shortages — IET and EngineeringUK both report tens of thousands of unfilled STEM vacancies a year. These tend to offer the strongest pay and progression.