Apprenticeship programmes for graduates are a relatively new concept. Individuals holding a degree higher than a foundation degree (Level 4) have always been prohibited from obtaining government assistance under previous rules.
Until recently, most Apprenticeships available were at lower levels; thus, many graduates would be overqualified to begin one.
However, the government’s recent push to create Apprenticeships at the Degree and Masters levels has opened up a whole new market for university graduates.
Individuals may now, in theory, undertake an Apprenticeship at a higher level than their degree. They are now eligible for funding as a bonus.
With updated Apprenticeship requirements emphasising work duties, graduates with non-relevant degrees are now funded on lower levels of Apprenticeships, as their degree did not provide them with the necessary knowledge or skills to operate in that job.