Course content
BSc Digital and Technology Solutions is a full University of Exeter degree aligned to the Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (integrated degree) Apprenticeship. The programme combines the academic rigour of Exeter’s long tradition of teaching excellence with the achievement of an industry-recognised professional qualification.
All apprentices will study the same core modules in their first two and a half years on the programme. In the third year the apprentice will begin work on their chosen specialism. The five specialist pathways are:
- Software Engineering
- Data Analysis
- Business Analysis
- IT Consulting
- Cyber Security
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
120 credits of compulsory modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Object-Oriented Programming | 15 | |
| Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science | 15 | |
| Computers and the Internet | 15 | |
| Computational Mathematics | 15 | |
| Professional Development 1 | 30 | |
| Programming | 15 | |
| Social and Professional Issues of the Information Age | 15 | |
COM1013DA: Object-Oriented Programming
Object-oriented programming (OOP) is one of the most widely used approaches to software development and underpins many modern software systems. In this module, you will learn how software can be designed and developed using object-oriented principles and practices.
You will explore the core concepts of object-oriented programming, including classes, objects, methods, attributes, inheritance, polymorphism and persistence. Through practical programming activities, you will learn how these concepts can be used to model real-world problems and support the development of software that is maintainable, reusable and extensible.
The module introduces techniques for analysing requirements and transforming them into software designs. You will learn how to use industry-standard modelling techniques, including the Unified Modelling Language (UML), to represent and communicate software designs, behaviour and structure.
You will also develop an understanding of key software engineering practices, including testing, test-driven development, documentation and software architecture principles. Topics such as SOLID principles, cohesion, coupling and design patterns will help you understand how software quality and maintainability can be improved through effective design.
COM1014DA: Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science
Discrete mathematics provides many of the theoretical foundations of Computer Science and digital technologies. In this module, you will explore the mathematical structures and techniques used to model, analyse and solve problems encountered in software, data and digital systems.
You will study topics such as number systems, mathematical logic, sets, relations, graphs and combinatorics, and examine how these concepts underpin areas including algorithms, data representation, networking, cybersecurity and software design. Through practical problem-solving activities, you will develop skills that are directly relevant to both your academic studies and workplace practice.
The module aims to build your confidence in using mathematical reasoning to analyse problems, construct solutions and justify decisions. You will gain experience applying formal methods and logical reasoning to computational problems, developing a deeper understanding of how computer systems represent information and how efficient solutions can be designed and evaluated.
By the end of the module, you will have a solid foundation in discrete mathematics and a clear understanding of its relevance to professional computing contexts. These skills will support your progress throughout the programme and underpin a wide range of technical roles, including software development, data analysis and the design of secure and reliable systems.
COM1015DA: Computers and the Internet
Modern organisations depend on complex computing and networking infrastructures that enable communication, information processing and delivery of digital services. This module introduces the fundamental concepts that underpin computer systems, computer networks and internet technologies, providing a foundation for further study in computing and digital technology.
You will explore how hardware and software components interact to deliver modern computing services, examining topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, networking and internet technologies. You will develop an understanding of how information is represented, processed and transmitted across interconnected systems, and how computing resources are managed to support users and applications.
The module also introduces contemporary infrastructure concepts, including virtualisation, cloud computing and distributed systems, together with the fundamental principles of cybersecurity in networked environments. Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on understanding the relationships between system components and the factors that influence system performance, reliability and scalability.
COM1016DA: Computational Mathematics
This module will provide a solid foundation on the required mathematical tools and how to use them in solving computer science problems. Whether you're optimising financial models, designing efficient algorithms, analysing large datasets, or understanding the behaviour of complex systems, the mathematical foundations you develop through this module will be essential.
The module aims to provide you with a foundation in the essential mathematical tools used in advanced Computer Science topics such as Data Analysis, Machine Learning etc. You will be introduced to foundations of linear algebra and vector spaces, statistics and probabilities and optimization techniques to understand how algorithms find solutions, and how systems handle uncertainty and make predictions, which in turn forms the computational backbone of Machine Learning models, recommendation systems, risk analysis, and the data pipelines you encounter in your workplace.
Over the course of this module, you will learn to apply theoretical knowledge through concrete programming tasks. Through practical problem-solving activities, you will develop skills that are directly relevant to both your academic studies and your workplace practice.
COM1017DA: Professional Development 1
This module is designed to help you become a confident, reflective and professionally aware computing student, capable of applying academic skills to real organisational and workplace contexts. The module integrates academic development, information systems understanding, and reflective professional practice into a single, coherent learning journey across the academic year.
In Term 1, you will build strong foundations in academic and professional skills. You will learn how to write clearly and purposefully for academic and business audiences, locate and evaluate high-quality sources, use academic databases effectively, and apply correct referencing. You will begin developing a portfolio of evidence that supports both your studies and future employability.
Term 2 focuses on information systems in organisations, using contemporary real-world cases to explore how technology enables business operations, creates value, and supports competitive advantage. You will analyse how organisations rely on information systems, and what happens when those systems fail, developing the ability to explain technology concepts in a professional, non technical way.
COM1018DA: Programming
Programming is a fundamental discipline within Computer Science and digital technology, providing the means through which computational problems are analysed and software solutions are created. In this module, you will learn how to design algorithms and translate them into working software solutions using a modern programming language.
You will develop skills in computational thinking, problem decomposition and logical reasoning, learning how to analyse problems and express their solutions as algorithms and programs. The module introduces core programming concepts, including variables, data types, control structures, functions and data structures, together with approaches to testing and debugging software.
A particular emphasis is placed on understanding how software behaves and how programming constructs can be combined to solve practical computational problems. You will learn how to structure programs, reason about program correctness, and apply systematic approaches to software development.
You will also explore how computers represent and process information, including issues relating to numerical representation and precision, and how these influence software behaviour. Through practical programming exercises and guided development activities, you will gain experience of designing, implementing, testing and refining software solutions.
COM1019DA: Social and Professional Issues of the Information Age
Digital technologies increasingly influence how individuals, organisations and societies operate. As a digital and technology professional, you will be expected not only to develop and use technology effectively, but also to understand its wider social, legal and ethical implications. This module introduces the professional, ethical, legal and societal issues associated with the development, deployment and use of digital technologies.
You will explore how information, data and digital systems are governed through legal, regulatory and professional frameworks, and examine the responsibilities of technology professionals in protecting individuals, organisations and society. The module introduces ethical principles and professional standards that support responsible decision-making in the design, implementation and use of digital technologies.
You will consider topics such as privacy, data protection, intellectual property, professional conduct, software dependability, and the societal impacts of computing and digital innovation. Particular attention is given to emerging challenges relating to data-driven systems, including issues of fairness, bias, accountability and trust.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
120 credits of compulsory modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 2 | ||
| Database Theory and Design | 15 | |
| Network and Computer Security | 15 | |
| Software Development | 15 | |
| Web Development | 15 | |
| Team Project | 15 | |
| Artificial Intelligence and Applications | 15 | |
| Professional Development 2 | 30 | |
COM2022DA: Database Theory and Design
This module provides you with an insight into the theoretical and technical foundations of modern database management systems and their role within contemporary organisations. The module focuses on the core skills of conceptual data modelling, the transformation of conceptual models into relational data models, and the implementation and use of relational databases using SQL within an industry-standard database management system.
You will learn the principles of database design and modelling, including the relational model, relational algebra, and SQL. The module also introduces transaction processing and its role in maintaining data integrity and supporting recovery. In addition, you will explore contemporary developments in database technologies, including big data, NoSQL databases, and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in database design and management.
The module combines theoretical foundations with practical application, providing hands-on experience of designing, implementing, querying, and managing databases using a commercially relevant database management system. You will develop knowledge of database design principles, data quality, security, and transaction management, while gaining familiarity with current and emerging database technologies.
COM2023DA: Network and Computer Security
Network and computer security is widely recognised as a vital aspect of the design, development, deployment, and operation of modern computer systems. As organisations increasingly rely on interconnected digital infrastructures, effective security measures are essential to protect systems and data from threats such as unauthorised access, malware, data theft, and denial-of-service attacks.
This module provides a solid understanding of the key concepts, principles, and practices associated with the security of modern computer systems and networks. You will examine the fundamental concepts of information security, including security objectives, access control mechanisms, risk assessment, assurance, and security management. The module also introduces techniques used to secure complex systems and explores the technological and organisational measures required to mitigate security threats.
Through a combination of theoretical study and practical activities, you will develop an understanding of how security is achieved through the interaction of technology, processes, policies, and people. You will gain practical experience in assessing security risks, evaluating vulnerabilities, applying security controls, and using appropriate techniques and tools to test the security of networked computer systems.
COM2024DA: Software Development
This module develops your ability to design and build well-structured, reliable, and maintainable software systems. Building on your prior experience in programming and object-oriented design, you will learn how to develop software in a more systematic and professional way. You will explore how software evolves from individual programs to more structured software systems, including how to organise larger codebases, design reusable components, and manage complexity effectively. You will also develop an understanding of how different parts of a system fit together and how design decisions influence the quality and maintainability of software over time.
COM2025DA: Web Development
Modern web applications power everything from financial trading platforms to healthcare systems to e-commerce. In this module, you'll learn to build full-stack web applications that are accessible, secure, and maintainable. Building on the software development practices you learned in COM2024DA Software Development (testing, version control, design patterns etc), you'll now apply those skills to web technologies. You'll work with both frontend (what users see and interact with) and backend (server-side logic and data) systems, understanding how they communicate and work together to create complete applications.
On the frontend, you'll master markup languages, styling frameworks, and scripting languages to build responsive, accessible interfaces that work across devices. You'll apply usability principles and accessibility standards (WCAG) that govern how public-facing systems must be built, ensuring that applications meet both industry expectations and legal compliance requirements. On the backend, you'll work with server-side languages, databases, and APIs to handle data, authentication, and business logic.
COM2026DA: Team Project
In this module, you will work collaboratively as part of a project team to design, develop, implement, and evaluate a substantial computational or data-driven solution to a realistic real-world problem. The module provides an opportunity to apply and integrate the knowledge and skills developed through earlier study in areas such as programming, software development, object-oriented design, databases, and systems analysis.
Working through the full project lifecycle, you will undertake activities including requirements gathering and analysis, project planning, solution design, implementation, testing, evaluation, and presentation of outcomes. The module emphasises the practical application of computing knowledge within a realistic development environment, requiring you to make informed technical decisions and evaluate the effectiveness, quality, and suitability of proposed solutions.
The project serves as the primary vehicle for learning, allowing you to develop technical expertise through authentic problem-solving and iterative development activities. Supervisory meetings, project reviews, and structured milestones will support the progression of the project and encourage reflection on both technical and professional practice.
COM2027DA: Artificial Intelligence and Applications
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad field concerned with the design and study of computer systems capable of performing tasks that involve elements of intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem‑solving, and decision‑making. This module provides you with a conceptually grounded introduction to Artificial Intelligence, situating contemporary AI methods and systems within their wider theoretical, historical, and technical context.
The module introduces you to key ideas from the history and philosophy of AI, examining how different conceptions of intelligence, representation, and reasoning have shaped the development of the field. It then explores major AI paradigms and problem‑solving methods, including symbolic approaches, search and optimisation techniques, and machine learning in modern AI systems. Particular attention is given to the representation of data, information, and knowledge, and to how data quality, uncertainty, bias, and modelling assumptions influence the behaviour and limitations of AI systems.
COM2028DA: Professional Development 2
Professional Development 2 supports your transition from understanding how organisations use digital technology to taking a more strategic role in shaping technology-enabled change. You will focus on how digital and technology solutions are selected, justified, and implemented in real organisational contexts.
You will explore how organisations assess needs, risks, and opportunities, and how decisions are made about acquiring or developing technology solutions. The module introduces practical approaches such as capability thinking, solution lifecycles, and business case development, helping you understand how technical, organisational, and human factors come together in decision making. You will also develop the ability to communicate these decisions clearly and persuasively to different stakeholders.
The module places a strong emphasis on applied learning and reflective practice. Alongside taught content, you will document and reflect on your development through applied activities and workplace evidence. This supports the connection between theory and practice and the development of professional judgement.
By the end of the module, you will be able to analyse organisational needs, evaluate technology options, and justify decisions in a clear and professional manner, while communicating your ideas effectively to a range of audiences.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of pathway-specific compulsory modules.
Pathway information:
In Stage 3 you must choose a specific pathway as shown below. The pathway selected will be included (in parentheses) after the degree name. To qualify for a particular pathway you must select the relevant two modules from the pathway-specific module groups.
Pathway A - Software Engineering
Pathway B - Cyber Security
Pathway C - IT Consulting
Pathway D - Data Analysis
Pathway E - Business Analysis
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Business Analysis Pathway-Specific | ||
| Business Analysis 1 | 30 | |
| Business Analysis 2 | 30 | |
| Cyber Security Pathway-Specific | ||
| Cyber Security 1 | 30 | |
| Cyber Security 2 | 30 | |
| Data Analysis Pathway-Specific | ||
| Data Analysis 1 | 30 | |
| Data Analysis 2 | 30 | |
| IT Consulting Pathway-Specific | ||
| IT Consulting 1 | 30 | |
| IT Consulting 2 | 30 | |
| Software Engineering Pathway-Specific | ||
| Software Engineering 1 | 30 | |
| Software Engineering 2 | 30 | |
| Stage 3 | ||
| Professional Development 3 | 30 | |
| Synoptic Project | 30 | |
COM3113DA: Business Analysis 1
In this module, you will develop a foundation in professional Business Analysis practice, focusing on how organisations identify business needs and shape effective, technology‑supported solutions. Business Analysis plays a key role in digital change initiatives by enabling organisations to understand problems and opportunities, define solution scope, and communicate analysis clearly to stakeholders and delivery teams.
You will study the core activities of Business Analysis, including investigation and elicitation, requirements engineering and lifecycle management, and the modelling of business processes and business data. You will learn how a range of established Business Analysis techniques and modelling approaches are used to analyse organisational contexts, capture and structure requirements, and manage change over time. Emphasis is placed on producing clear, coherent analysis artefacts that support collaboration and informed decision‑making throughout the solution lifecycle.
COM3114DA: Business Analysis 2
In this module, you will develop an advanced understanding of Business Analysis practice in complex organisational and digital contexts. Building on the foundations established earlier in the programme, the module focuses on how Business Analysts analyse complex business problems, work with diverse stakeholders, and exercise professional judgement when shaping and evaluating digital solutions.
You will explore how organisational context and strategic drivers influence the way business problems are analysed and prioritised. The module examines a range of advanced problem‑analysis approaches, alongside the impact of stakeholder dynamics, group behaviour, and bias on the quality of analysis and decision‑making. You will also study how Business Analysts contribute to digitally enabled business process improvement, including assessing organisational readiness for change and evaluating the scope and impact of process transformation.
A central theme of the module is the use of advanced analytical and modelling approaches to reason about digital solutions. You will examine behavioural, decision, process, and data models and use them to analyse process performance, identify deficiencies, and assess improvement opportunities. The module also considers the role of Business Analysis in Agile delivery environments, highlighting how analysis, collaboration, and requirements management adapt in iterative and fast‑changing contexts.
COM3107DA: Cyber Security 1
In this module, you will develop a foundation in professional cyber security analysis, with a particular focus on how red-teaming techniques can be used to understand, assess and improve organisational security. Cyber security analysts need to understand how attackers identify weaknesses, exploit vulnerabilities and move through systems, while also working within legal, ethical and organisational boundaries. Red-team analysis plays a key role in helping organisations evaluate their security posture, prioritise risks and strengthen defensive controls.
You will study the core activities involved in red team cyber security analysis, including reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, exploitation concepts, post-exploitation awareness, evidence collection and security reporting. You will learn how common and emerging attack techniques are used in controlled and authorised environments to assess networks, hosts, applications and user-facing systems. Emphasis is placed on linking technical findings to risk, business impact and practical recommendations for improving security.
COM3108DA: Cyber Security 2
In this module, you will develop the skills and professional ability needed to operate as a blue-team cyber security analyst. Building on Cyber Security 1, which focuses on understanding attacker behaviour and red-team techniques, this module shifts attention to defence: how organisations detect, respond to, recover from and learn from cyber security incidents.
You will study how security controls, monitoring technologies, logs, audit trails and organisational processes are used to protect systems and data in real operational contexts. You will learn how analysts investigate suspicious activity, reconstruct incidents, assess business impact, support containment and recovery, and recommend improvements to reduce future risk. The module places particular emphasis on the practical work of cyber defence, including incident response planning, detection and analysis, access control, risk treatment, disaster recovery, business continuity and assurance of security control effectiveness.
A distinctive feature of the module is its focus on linking technical evidence to organisational decision-making. You will explore how cyber security culture, policies, standards and user behaviour shape an organisation’s security posture, and how analysts communicate risks and recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
COM3111DA: Data Analysis 1
The primary role of a data analyst is to collect, organise, and analyse data to uncover meaningful business insights and drive informed decision-making within organisations. Data analysts are responsible for managing data quality, extracting relevant information from diverse sources, and communicating findings in ways that stakeholders can understand and act upon. In today's data-rich environment, organisations accumulate vast quantities of data – both structured and unstructured – and the ability to extract value from this data is essential.
This aim of this module is to provide you with foundational skills in data analysis, focusing on the complete analytical workflow from problem definition through to communication of results. You will develop competencies in data preparation (extraction, cleansing, transformation, and validation), explore data using statistical and visual methods, and gain practical experience with use of industry-standard tools and programming languages. The module introduces you to predictive modelling and foundational machine learning concepts, equipping you to identify trends and patterns that inform business decisions.
COM3112DA: Data Analysis 2
This module extends your data analysis skills from foundational techniques to more advanced and sophisticated methods for solving complex business problems. In modern organisations, data analysts increasingly work with large, diverse, and complex datasets, requiring deeper technical knowledge, critical thinking, and awareness of ethical considerations. This module prepares you for such challenges by developing your capability to apply advanced analytical techniques, manage data governance and compliance issues, and make principled decisions about data and analysis ethics.
Building on your foundational skills from Data Analysis 1, you will explore advanced statistical methods and machine learning techniques including Classification, Clustering, and Dimensionality Reduction. You will learn to work with large-scale datasets and diverse data sources, understanding the technical and organisational challenges involved. The module places significant emphasis on data quality, governance, and compliance, i.e., critical competencies in regulated industries and organisations managing sensitive data.
COM3109DA: IT Consulting 1
This module develops a foundational understanding of IT consulting practice in organisational and digital environments. Building on your existing technical and analytical knowledge, it focuses on how consultants engage with clients, frame problems, and provide structured, evidence‑based recommendations to support improvements in systems and processes. You will explore structured approaches to consulting and problem solving, enabling you to define and analyse complex problems and apply critical thinking in professional contexts.
A key emphasis is understanding how IT challenges arise from organisational factors such as Business/IT alignment, IT strategy, IT governance and IT management processes. You will use these perspectives to analyse IT problems and identify opportunities for improving systems and processes, including evaluating the role of digital and AI-enabled solutions. The module also develops skills in stakeholder engagement and requirements elicitation, where information may be incomplete or ambiguous, with a focus on questioning, active listening and interpreting requirements in consulting contexts.
COM3110DA: IT Consulting 2
In this module, you will develop advanced capabilities as an IT consultant, focusing on how to work with clients in complex and uncertain organisational contexts. You will learn how to interpret and frame challenging problems, evaluate technology solutions, and provide informed advice that supports effective decision‑making.
A central theme of the module is your role in shaping outcomes within organisations. You will explore how stakeholder interests and conflicting perspectives influence decisions, and how consultants can work with clients to build shared understanding and support informed decision‑making. You will also examine how organisations adopt and use technology, and how consultants support change, improve processes, and help ensure that IT systems are used effectively in practice.
The module will further develop your ability to operate in dynamic contexts where requirements evolve and solutions are delivered iteratively. You will learn how to balance technical, organisational, and practical considerations when advising on technology and managing change. A key focus is on evaluating solutions in real‑world settings, including assessing system performance, usability, and the impact of technology on organisational activities.
COM3105DA: Software Engineering 1
This module develops your understanding of software engineering as a disciplined, structured approach to designing and evaluating software systems. The module focuses on the principles, methods, and models that underpin professional software engineering practice, rather than the detailed implementation of software systems.
You will explore how software engineering approaches are used to manage complexity across the software lifecycle, including requirements, design, development, and quality assurance activities. Emphasis is placed on understanding and comparing different lifecycle models, engineering methods, and design approaches, and on recognising their strengths, limitations, and appropriate contexts of use.
The module develops your ability to interpret and analyse software requirements, system designs, and modelling notations such as UML, enabling you to understand how engineering artefacts support communication and decision-making in software projects. You will also examine core software quality principles, including verification and validation, and the role of quality attributes such as performance, security, and maintainability.
In addition, you will be introduced to key software engineering tools and collaborative practices, including version control, configuration management, continuous integration concepts, and collaborative development approaches such as open-source software development.
COM3106DA: Software Engineering 2
This module develops your understanding of software engineering in the context of large-scale, distributed, and complex systems. It builds on foundational software engineering knowledge to explore how modern software systems are designed, delivered, and evolved within real-world organisational and technical constraints. The focus is on managing complexity, coordinating development across teams, and responding to continuously changing requirements in professional environments.
The module emphasises contemporary software engineering practices used in industry, including cloud-based systems, DevOps, continuous delivery, and modern architectural approaches such as microservices and service-based architectures. You will consider how architectural and engineering decisions support scalability, maintainability, and quality attributes such as performance, reliability, and security in distributed systems.
In addition, the module introduces how modern software systems may incorporate data-driven and AI-enabled components, focusing on how these capabilities are integrated into software engineering workflows, alongside their risks, limitations, and professional implications. You will also examine how software engineering productivity is supported through frameworks, reuse, automation, and advanced tooling. The module encourages critical evaluation of engineering approaches and their suitability in different contexts rather than reliance on a single method or toolset.
COM3103DA: Professional Development 3
Professional Development 3 focuses on developing your ability to manage, deliver, and evaluate IT activities in organisational contexts. The module supports your progression from making informed decisions to taking responsibility for implementing, managing, and improving IT systems and services in practice, from their planning and delivery through to their evaluation and continuous improvement.
You will develop an understanding of how IT systems and services are planned, coordinated, and managed over time, and how leadership and management approaches are applied in delivery contexts. The module explores how constraints such as time, cost, resources, and risk influence decisions, and how IT systems are operated, supported, and continuously improved in practice. You will also develop the ability to evaluate system performance and outcomes, identify limitations, and justify improvements using appropriate data collection, research, and analysis approaches.
COM3104DA: Synoptic Project
The Synoptic Project is a substantial work-based project that provides evidence of your ability to apply the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) required by the Digital and Technology Solutions (DTS) degree apprenticeship standard. The project allows you to demonstrate your ability to apply technical knowledge and skills in practice by addressing a complex organisational problem or opportunity.
In this module, you will plan, implement, manage and evaluate a project using appropriate methods and tools relevant to your specialism. The focus is on applying what you have learned to deliver meaningful outcomes in a professional context.
Project proposals are formally agreed, in advance of the module start, with your employer and academic supervisor. The proposal process will ensure the planned project is appropriate in scope and aligned with your chosen specialism and End Point Assessment requirements. You will be supported by an academic supervisor throughout the project, providing specialist guidance through regular meetings, alongside module-level oversight to ensure consistency in expectations and reporting.
You will manage progress, respond to risks and constraints, and adapt your approach as challenges arise, demonstrating your ability to apply both technical and organisational practices in real-world situations.
Employer information
This programme gives you the opportunity to shape the development of your next-generation employees. To meet specific employers’ needs, pathways relating to specific role areas are available across five IT specialisms. Your staff will benefit from gaining extensive professional experience throughout their degree, graduating free of tuition debt into employment.
Our programme is distinctive in the way it minimises disruption to an apprentice’s work and the day-to-day job they hold with your organisation. They will implement the skills and knowledge they acquire directly into their position from day one, to not only provide new and innovative tech solutions, but increase productivity and efficiency.
Top 20 in the UK for Computer Science
Excellent facilities spanning a wide range of machine types and software ecosystems, alongside a £3.2 million SWIOT building
Apprentices earn a salary and pay zero tuition fees, meaning they’ll graduate debt-free and enhance their career
10 years as a trusted Degree Apprenticeship partner
"I am a 3rd-year DTS degree-apprentice, specialising in cyber-security. This means I spend 4 days each week working in a security team (in my case, at an insurance company), and 1 day each week, with the university. The course has abounded with diverse rotations in departments at work (eg web-dev, project-management, & infosec), and concomitantly divers modules at university (eg IT-Law-Ethics, & pen-testing). This particular course therefore leaves me with 4 years of highly-relevant industry experience, and a (fully-funded) BSc degree — giving me a distinct headstart, career-wise."
Ben
Digital Technology and Solutions Apprentice - Ageas Insurance
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Entry requirements
- Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in the design and implementation of IT systems, data analysis, or system security and support, or
- Applications must have BBB at A-Level or equivalent, or
- Applicants must have successfully completed a Level 4 Digital Apprenticeship as defined by Skills England
- Applicants will be in a role that supports the gathering of evidence required for the Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Apprenticeship 'standard'.
| Qualification | Typical offer |
|---|---|
| A Level | BBB |
| BTEC | DDM |
| T Level | Merit |
| IB | 30/555 |
| Apprenticeship | Click Here |
| Contextual offers | BCC Find out more about contextual offers |
| Equivalences | View other grade equivalences |
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Other qualifications of a similar level can be considered. We would encourage applicants with non-standard qualifications to contact us to discuss their eligibility. Where a candidate has already gained a good undergraduate degree, this may be offered to meet entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements
As an apprenticeship funding requirement, all apprentices aged 16-18 studying for a Level 3 apprenticeship or higher are required to evidence achievement at Level 2 in Mathematics and English before their Gateway to End Point Assessment.
If the apprentice is aged 19+ when they begin their apprenticeship training, and they do not already hold a suitable equivalent qualification, English and / or Maths is an optional part of the programme under the funding rules. However, Level 2 English remains a standard entry requirement for University of Exeter programmes.
Find out more about how we support Functional Skills.
Applicants must also have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship – please see the Department for Education website for further information.
How to apply
The Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship does not follow the standard UCAS application process. Applicants can apply to this programme in addition to making applications to any institution through UCAS. To gain a place on an apprenticeship, applicants must have either:
- Already have a position or job offer from an organisation willing to support their application.
- Apply directly for a Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (integrated degree) apprenticeship vacancy with a relevant employer. Details of apprenticeship vacancies are available on the GOV.UK website. Some of our partner employers may choose to advertise vacancies through us directly, more information can be found on our current degree apprenticeship vacancies page. Applicants are welcome to apply for more than one vacancy through any company offering apprenticeship opportunities.
Please get in touch with us via the contact methods listed above to discuss progressing with an application.
View more information on how to apply for a degree apprenticeship.
Funding
Full programme cost: £27,000
This apprenticeship is entirely funded through an Employers’ Apprenticeship Levy. Your employer fully covers the cost of the apprenticeship; apprentices do not pay for any of the eligible training costs. As an apprentice you will be an employee of your organisation, gaining a University of Exeter award alongside working and earning a salary.
Employers who pay the Apprenticeship Levy will pay for the apprenticeship fees directly through that contribution. See further information about the Apprenticeship Levy funding.
Employers who do not pay the levy will be able to claim 95 percent of the cost of the apprenticeship from the Government. Up to 100 percent Government contribution may be available for the employers who do not pay the levy, if at the start of the apprenticeship training, the apprentice is aged between 16-21 years old.
Employers must pay their apprentices a salary at least consistent with national legislation.
Funding eligibility criteria
To be eligible for funding the apprentice must meet the criteria listed in the Department for Education guidance.
The apprentice must have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship.
Learning
One day a week of an apprentice's working time will be given over to study. Our model is designed to be flexible around the needs of apprentices and workloads. No weekly day-release is required, mitigating disruption of their daily role and ensuring maximum flexibility.
All modules are delivered in a blended learning format with work-based learning elements embedded throughout each stage of the programme:
- Around 22 days of on campus teaching across the whole programme.
- A day a week distance learning during term time (7.5 hours minimum)
- Online workshops / classes
- Guided self-study
- Assessed work-based learning intended to allow apprentices to practice and improve their skills
E-Learning
E-learning elements of the course, including lectures, seminars and online collaborative work, are undertaken through the University’s electronic learning environment and web conferencing platforms. This will supplement the learning started during residentials, as well as providing academic support for ongoing projects in the workplace.
On-campus teaching blocks
Around 22 days of on-campus teaching across the whole programme, held at the University’s Streatham Campus in Exeter, bring apprentices together from across the country. During the on-campus teaching blocks they will meet with fellow apprentices, wider members of the computer science department and spend time with their academic mentor.
Work-based projects
Degree apprenticeship projects are developed with a strong emphasis on the close relationship between the employer and University. The academic curriculum follows real delivery in the workplace with the day-to-day challenges faced in a work environment informing coursework. The varied academic content will provide employers with an opportunity to explore areas of the business that may not fall immediately within the apprentice’s role.
Our dedicated partnerships team liaise closely with employers throughout the programme; the apprentice will have dedicated mentors to assist and guide them and the employer throughout the whole course of the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship Standard
Alongside studying for their Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship certificate, gained after completing the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours of the apprenticeship standard, apprentices will work towards a BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions.
"Apprenticeships offer a clear, inclusive pathway into the industry, allowing individuals to earn, learn and progress simultaneously. They help develop well-rounded professionals who are technically capable, adaptable and well-prepared for long-term success in a rapidly evolving technology landscape."
Janyah
Digital and Technology Solutions Apprentice UBS
Careers
Highly employable
Solid industry experience is what employers look for when recruiting. As a graduate of a degree apprenticeship programme, apprentices will be working in an exciting and relevant job from day one of their studies, meaning when they graduate, they’ll have the both the professional and academic experience sought after by employers to drive impact within their organisation.
Find out more about our Digital and Technology Solutions degree apprenticeship
Employers
We can help you invest in upskilling your people and attract new talent via progression routes.
Aspiring apprentices
Discover why a Degree Apprenticeship is right for you.
Events
Find out more about our programmes and partnering with the University of Exeter.