For many school-leavers, the CAO route into college is still the most familiar path after the Leaving Certificate. However, higher education has evolved considerably in recent years, and students today have a wider range of options when deciding how to begin their careers.
One of these options is a degree-level apprenticeship. These programmes allow students to study for a recognised honours degree while working in their chosen profession.
Across Ireland, apprenticeship programmes now exist in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare and insurance. They combine academic study with practical experience and offer a different way to approach third-level education.
These programmes form part of Ireland’s national apprenticeship system, coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Office and developed in partnership with industry and higher education institutions.
So what does studying through an apprenticeship actually involve?
Apprentices are students as well as employees
A modern apprenticeship is built around structured academic study delivered by a higher education institution. In the case of the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship, the academic programme is delivered by Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo, leading to a BA (Hons) in Insurance Practice.
Apprentices attend lectures one day a week, complete assignments and sit exams as part of their programme, just like other undergraduate students.
At the same time, they work within an organisation where they gain experience in the profession they are studying. This dual role allows apprentices to develop both academic knowledge and practical skills throughout the course of their degree.
Learning is closely connected to real work
Traditional third-level education typically separates academic learning from professional experience. Many students only encounter the workplace through internships or placements later in their studies.
With an apprenticeship, the two happen at the same time. Concepts studied in lectures can often be seen in practice during the working week. Over time this can help deepen understanding, as students experience how theory connects with real-world situations.
Experience builds alongside qualifications
By the time apprentices complete their programme, they have not only earned a recognised degree, they have also gained several years of professional experience
This can be a significant advantage when entering the workforce. Apprentices graduate with an understanding of how their industry operates and with experience of working as part of a professional team.
In the case of the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship, graduates also complete professional designations such as APA and CIP or QFA alongside their degree.
A different way to approach higher education
Higher education no longer follows a single pathway. While the traditional college route will continue to suit many students, degree-level apprenticeships provide another option for those who prefer to combine study with practical experience.
Degree-level apprenticeships have grown steadily in Ireland in recent years as employers and education providers work together to create alternative routes into professional careers.
For some students, the opportunity to earn while learning and build experience at the same time can make this approach particularly appealing.
Find out more about the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship and see which employers are hiring on earnandlearn.ie