Graduate Apprenticeships and Workplace Learning
Applications are open for September 2026 entry
UWS is adopting a ground-breaking approach to workplace learning for professionals in Scotland.
We are expanding our portfolio of fully funded programmes to include Graduate Apprenticeships and similar Workplace Learning initiatives, addressing critical skills gaps and building capacity in targeted sectors.
Get in touch with us directly to understand how your organisation can benefit from a UWS Graduate Apprenticeship. Future-proof your business and secure funded places for your organisation.
Our Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) and Workplace Learning (WPL) programmes provide a fully funded pathway for individuals to achieve a degree or for organisations to invest in the talents of their workforce. Find out how your organisation can benefit by registering for one of our webinars below:
UWS currently offers eight Graduate Apprenticeships and a sector relevant Workplace Learning programme:
The following Graduate Apprenticeship is currently available with UWS:
J&D Pierce - Graduate Structural Engineer
An opportunity has become available at J&D Pierce for a Graduate Structural Engineer to join one of the leading structural steelwork fabricators in the UK. J&D Pierce specialise in the design, fabrication, painting and site erection of structural steelwork, working with some of the largest construction projects in the UK for over 40 years. In this time, the company has acquired a reputation for innovation. J&D Pierce offer a complete in-house vertical service with advisory roles in design and project planning. Managing all operations from pre-construction to erection, with over 615,000 sq ft across 2 state-of-the-art production facilities, they provide their clients with unrivalled resource, quality and the adaptability expected in today’s competitive, changing industry.
The successful candidate will undertake the University’s BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering (GA).
Closing date: 27 February 2026
VACACNY DETAILS
The benefits of Graduate Apprenticeships are significant but don’t take our word for it. Hear from our student and graduate community to discover the power of Graduate Apprenticeships at UWS.
"I completed my graduate apprenticeship in the summer of 2022 and since then it has massively fast-forwarded my career progression.”
Kirsty Smith, Design Team Leader, Ayrshire Road Alliance
UWS is a leading institution for widening participation in higher education and has been named The Times and The Sunday Times Scottish University of the Year for Social Inclusion 2026.
We’re incredibly proud to be named as the leading university in Scotland for social inclusion through the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. This accolade recognises our deep commitment to supporting our diverse student population and the impact our graduates make in the communities they serve."
Professor James Miller, Principal of University of the West of Scotland
Some sectors are reporting critical skills shortages that are affecting the growth of individual organisations and the wider Scottish economy. Graduate Apprenticeships have been developed in response to demand from industry, and are matched to industries that need employees with degree-level qualifications and real-world work experience.
UWS is delivering Graduate Apprenticeships with support from Scottish Funding Council and Skills Development Scotland. GAs are already delivering tangible benefits to employers:
Earn while you learn and graduate with a degree that powers your career progress.
We’re fiercely proud that 45% of UWS students are the first in their family to come to university. We believe that work experience is just as important as traditional qualifications from school, college and university.
We have designed a unique process to assess skills and knowledge built up over time in work and translate these into university credits. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) opens the door for working people to be recognised and welcomed into our programmes at the right level, suited to their working experience.
Be the mentor of your employees during their UWS GA or WPL journey. Celebrate their progression and invest in your team for industry-ready organisational growth.
What to look forward to as a Mentor:
To find out more about our Graduate Apprenticeships, please contact our dedicated team.
Find further information for employers and applicants below:
