Key Takeaways
- Undertake a 4-year Software Engineering Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Bristol, leading to a BSc (Hons) Degree.
- Earn a starting salary of £23,000 per year, with a £3,000 joining bonus and annual pay reviews.
- Gain hands-on experience in all aspects of the software development lifecycle, working on advanced defence systems.
- Applications close at midnight on Friday 20th November 2026, but may close earlier.
About the Role
Software Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
This is a 4-year, full-time Software Engineering Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship starting in September 2027.
Salary and Benefits
- Starting Salary: £23,000 per year
- Joining Bonus: £3,000
- Pay Reviews: Annual pay reviews
- Annual Leave: 25 days (plus holiday purchase) and up to 15 days flexi leave
- Healthcare: Healthcare Cash Plan supporting everyday health-related costs (medical, dental, optical, physio, health & wellbeing)
- Study Leave: Provided during exam periods
- Expenses: Paid travel expenses to and from your place of study
Qualification
You will study for a Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship with a Software Engineer pathway, leading to a BSc (Hons) Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions.
Location
Bristol. Applicants need to ensure their home or rental location is appropriate for travel to the MBDA site and the training provider.
Programme Structure
- Study: One study day per week at University Centre Weston - Winter Gardens.
- Work: The remainder of your working week will be spent in the Software Engineering function.
- Placements: You will undertake 6 x 6-month placements in years 1-3, gaining exposure to different departments, technologies, and development methodologies. In your final year, you will complete a 12-month placement in a department of your choice, alongside your final year project.
- Work from Home: Some placements may offer the opportunity to work from home for a day a week.
What You'll Do
You will be involved in all aspects of the software development lifecycle, working with various programming languages (including C, C++, and Java), software tools, and methodologies. You will contribute to a range of software products, such as:
- Mission Planning and Control systems
- Command, Control and Firing Units
- Real Time components (e.g., Weapons and Missile Control Units)
- Test Systems
You will work closely with other teams and departments, developing software for embedded systems and front-end applications on platforms like Linux and Windows.
Entry Requirements
GCSEs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Mathematics, and any Science or Technology subject.
Post-GCSEs (equivalent to 120 UCAS Tariff points):
- A levels: Three A levels totalling 120 UCAS Tariff points, including A level Mathematics and either a Science or Computing/Computer Science subject (minimum grade C in each).
- T level: T Level in Engineering or Computing with a minimum Merit grade. A Maths entry exam is required prior to starting.
- BTEC: A single Level 3 Extended Diploma in Maths, Science, IT, or Engineering at a minimum grade of DDM. Evidence of completing a Further Maths module is required for Science, IT, or Engineering applicants.
Note: Entry criteria are based on your top three full A Levels or equivalent qualifications. Extended Project Qualifications are not included. Employer-set criteria may differ from university requirements.
Security Clearance
- Must be a British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship.
- Successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks.
- Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply.