Graduate Apprenticeships and Workplace Learning
Applications are open for September 2026 entry
Future-proof your business
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.
Applications are open for September 2026 entry
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.
Join our online events
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:
Business Management / Business and Project Management
Wednesday 22 April - 10am / 2pm / 6pm
Register for Business webinar
Data, AI and Software Engineering
Thursday 23 April - 10am / 2pm / 6pm
Register for Data, AI and Software webinarWhat's on offer?
UWS currently offers eight Graduate Apprenticeships and a sector relevant Workplace Learning programme:
CURRENT VACANCIES
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
Meet our GA Students and Graduates
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
Leading the way in social inclusion
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
Tangible Business Benefits
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:
- By investing in your staff through Graduate Apprenticeships you can support your workforce to develop their skills to industry and professional standards
- Available to new and existing employees, Graduate Apprenticeships help businesses to recruit and retain talented people.
- Graduate Apprenticeships deliver industry relevant skills and qualifications which support your business’ workforce requirements and address your skill shortages
- Employers are actively involved in shaping programme delivery to best meet your business needs
- Offering Graduate Apprenticeships reduces recruitment costs and supports succession planning
- The end result is “work ready” graduates who will contribute to your business operations
Advance Your Career
Earn while you learn and graduate with a degree that powers your career progress.
Why choose UWS:
- Industry-focused curriculums - specialised courses aligned with market trends and industry needs
- Hands-on learning - practical skills through workplace and academic studies
- Flexible schedules - balance work, study, and life with online and in-person options
- Innovative and inclusive education - UWS proudly ranks 16th globally for SDG10 (Reduced Inequalities) in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024, highlighting its commitment to equality and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSGDs)
- Fully funded tuition & no age limit – accessible programmes with no financial burden or age restrictions
- Accreditation - many of our courses have recognised industry accreditation which ensures they meet high standards, boosting graduate credibility and career prospects
Unlocking Academic Potential through APEL
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.
Unlock Mentor Benefits with UWS
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:
- Facilitate learning - create an environment where students can link theoretical knowledge to workplace practices
- Guide assessments - support students in aligning their workplace assignments with organisational needs while maintaining academic integrity
- Provide feedback - offer constructive insights and help students refine their approach to professional challenges
- Authenticate learning - verify evidence of students’ workplace accomplishments for e-portfolio submissions
- Coordinate access - connect students to organisational resources and key personnel for diverse learning opportunities
- Optional professional development opportunities - enhance your own skills in coaching and reflective practice, which further enriches your professional portfolio
Find out more
To find out more about our Graduate Apprenticeships, please contact our dedicated team.
Find further information for employers and applicants below:
