Apprenticeship · Level 6 (Degree)
TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Undertake a 5-year Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship with a focus on Software Engineering, leading to a BSc Honours Degree from the University of Exeter.
- Earn a starting salary of £23,776 per year.
- Work on real defence and national security software projects in Bristol or Plymouth.
- Requires a minimum of five GCSEs and A-Levels/BTEC/Level 4 Apprenticeship, plus the ability to obtain security clearance.
- Applications close on 8th December 2026.
About the Role
Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship – Software Engineering Pathway
This 5-year apprenticeship offers a route into software engineering, combining academic learning with industry experience.
About the Programme
- You will join the Mission Systems business, developing software for national security and defence projects.
- Work will involve areas such as machine learning, sensor technologies, submarine systems, communications, command and control, and electronic warfare.
- You will be involved in the full software development lifecycle, from concept to testing.
- Develop skills in traditional and modern software development practices, including Agile and AI-assisted techniques.
Your Education and Training
- Study for a BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions with the University of Exeter over four years, part-time.
- Years 1 and 2 focus on foundational digital technologies; Years 3 and 4 specialise in Software Engineering.
- Full-time placements and End Point Assessment in the final year.
- Supplemented with in-house technical and soft skills training.
Future Prospects
- Earn a BSc Honours Degree and gain significant work experience in software engineering.
- Develop project management skills.
- Potential progression to Assistant Software Engineer or Software Engineer roles.
- Opportunities for professional registration and chartership.
Entry Requirements
- A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
- One of the following:
- A minimum of three A Levels at grade B or above (preferably in Mathematics, Science, or IT).
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma at DDM or above.
- Successful completion of a Level 4 Digital Apprenticeship.
- Strong IT proficiency, familiarity with software development tools and web technologies (e.g., HTML).
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Must be able to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) security clearance.
- Must be a UK national due to national security legislation.
Benefits
- Fully funded qualification.
- Personal development training and opportunities.
- Minimum 28 days holiday allowance (including bank holidays).
- Competitive pension scheme.
- Employee share scheme.
- Flexible benefits (cycle to work scheme, employee shopping savings portal).
- Involvement in STEM outreach and volunteering.
- Apprentice Development Programme.
Application Process
- Applications are reviewed in order of receipt; early application is recommended as the programme may close early if oversubscribed.
- Apply to only one programme.
- Support available for candidates requiring adjustments during the recruitment process.