Degree or Apprenticeship? How to Secure a Job in the IT Sector

The IT sector in the UK continues to expand rapidly, offering a wealth of career opportunities for aspiring professionals. Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or someone looking to upskill, the path you take to enter the IT industry can have a significant impact on your career trajectory. The two most common routes are pursuing an undergraduate degree or opting for an apprenticeship. Both options have their unique benefits, and choosing the right one depends on your career goals, learning style, and financial situation.

An apprenticeship offers a more hands-on approach to learning, combining practical experience with formal training. Here are the key benefits of choosing an apprenticeship in IT:

Connor Burwood, Systems Lead

My IT career started in 2014, after getting a GCSE in ICT I wanted to see what else I could achieve with computing, so decided to do an ICT A-Level and loved it. Being able to learn about a broad range of topics such as web design, project management, systems development, and database management, meant that I could grasp fundamentals of professional IT work to narrow down what I wanted to do as a career.

After this, attending university for a degree in computer science and completing modules such as maths for computing, databases, problem solving, software development, cyber security, and autonomous mobile robotics, I knew I wanted to work in something software related.

Now I get to create plans for business improvements, help improve current processes, develop automations, and make peoples working lives easier. University also allowed me to become more sociable, meeting friends, and gaining social skills that I will keep forever.

If you want to learn a wider, more broad set of IT skills, and enjoy the university lifestyle, I highly recommend choosing a degree, but make sure to research both the course and university well, as that could make all the difference.

Ryan Storey, Founder

My IT career began through an apprenticeship route after I decided university wasn’t the right fit for me. While studying IT at sixth form, I spoke with people already working in the industry – from technicians to IT directors – & their advice was clear: get hands-on experience & start earning certifications.

I secured an apprenticeship with a local IT company, beginning with a BTEC Level 2 Diploma in IT & Telecoms. The experience was incredibly hands-on – working from a small company that quickly grew, I was involved in everything from hardware repairs to client consultations. It gave me a real-world understanding of IT early on, which I later built on with Microsoft certifications in networking & cloud fundamentals.

Apprenticeships allowed me to develop practical skills, gain confidence, & take on more responsibility in every role I held. Over time, I moved into internal IT teams, contributed to ISO compliance projects, & progressed into senior leadership. Today, I run my own IT business.

If you’re someone who learns best by doing, enjoys solving real-world problems, & wants to build experience from day one, I’d highly recommend the apprenticeship route.

While both options provide viable pathways into the IT sector, they cater to different individuals and career goals. Here’s a comparison:

Criteria	Undergraduate Degree	Apprenticeship
Cost	High tuition fees and potential student debt	No fees, earn while you learn
Learning Style	Academic, structured, and theoretical	Practical, hands-on, and work-based
Duration	Typically, 3 – 4 years	1 – 3 years depending on level and programme
Employment Focus	Theoretical knowledge with potential placement opportunities	Real-world experience and immediate workplace contribution
Career Path	Broad academic foundation, access to specialist and graduate scheme roles	Specialised early career entry with potential for rapid growth

When deciding between a degree and an apprenticeship, consider the following factors:

Regardless of your chosen path, here are some tips to enhance your employability in the IT sector:

• Build a Portfolio
  Showcase your skills through projects, such as coding applications, developing websites, or creating cybersecurity strategies. A strong portfolio can set you apart from other candidates.
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• Gain Certifications
  Industry-recognised certifications, such as CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft, are highly valued by employers. Many of these certifications can be pursued independently or as part of an apprenticeship.
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• Network Effectively
  Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship.
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• Stay Updated
  The IT sector evolves rapidly. Stay informed about emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing, to remain competitive.
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• Tailor Your CV and Applications
  Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job description. Include quantifiable results wherever possible.
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Both an undergraduate degree & an apprenticeship can lead to a successful career in IT. A degree offers a structured academic environment where you can explore a wide range of topics in depth – from software development & cybersecurity to AI & data science – while also developing transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, & critical thinking. It can open doors to graduate schemes, research roles, & careers in specialist areas.

An apprenticeship, on the other hand, provides hands-on experience, job-specific training, & the opportunity to earn while you learn – all without the burden of student debt. Apprenticeships aren’t just a way into the industry – they’re a way to grow with it. Many apprentices go on to hold senior technical or leadership roles, having built up real-world skills from day one.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your learning style, goals, & personal circumstances. If you’re considering your next steps in IT, take time to research both routes – & if you’d like to hear more about either, feel free to reach out to us. Between us, we’ve experienced both sides & are always happy to share advice.

For more information, explore resources from the National Careers Service, UCAS, and apprenticeship providers such as BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.