Digital Degree Apprenticeship (in Wales)
The Open University’s Digital Degree Apprenticeship (in Wales) develops confident, capable professionals with the skills to power digital transformation across every sector.
Our unique flexible learning model enables apprentices to thrive in their studies alongside work commitments, while employers benefit from a sustainable pipeline of future-proof, diverse and capable tech talent — all funded by the Welsh Government via Medr, with support from the UK-wide Apprenticeship Levy.
We are currently welcoming enquiries and applications for this programme. Please note that offers of places will be confirmed once apprenticeship funding allocations to The Open University by Medr for October 2026 are finalised.
At a glance:
- Enables apprentices to build and advance their careers in the digital sector.
- Supports employers to upskill existing staff or bring in new talent for long-term growth.
- Helps to close digital skills gaps and future-proof organisations.
- Suitable for businesses of all sizes, from private enterprises to public sector, such as small-medium sized enterprises (SMEs), local and central government, NHS and large private organisations.
- Leverage transformation investments and enhance growth.
- Flexible, inclusive, and supportive learning with no prior qualifications needed. Our self-paced, tutor-led online programmes combine asynchronous study with dedicated support, helping apprentices balance work and study while meeting business needs.
Level: Level 6 Digital Degree Apprenticeship
Study method: Online/blended learning with tutor support
Duration: 3 years
Funding: See fees & funding
Entry requirements: See entry requirements
Available in: Wales only (subject to confirmation of allocations from Medr)
Looking for training in England instead? Check out our Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree apprenticeship.
About the Digital Degree Apprenticeship
The Digital Degree Apprenticeship is a work-based higher education programme that integrates academic and work-based learning in a way that can be delivered flexibly around the demands of your workplace.
As technologies converge and the pace of digital change accelerates, this programme supports apprentices to develop the necessary core knowledge and skills to contribute to digital projects across your organisation, as well as the mindset to enable them to continuously upskill as technologies advance.
The core Digital Degree Apprenticeship provides the broad technical understanding to operate as part of a wider team working with specialists in the analysis, design, build, evaluation and security of software, data solutions, services and networks. This includes the ability to support business strategy and management, work with end-users, and build solutions.
In addition to the core programme, The Open University (OU) offers three specialisms where apprentices will develop higher level applied practical skills, knowledge and competence in:
Cyber Security Management
Data Science
Software Engineering
This programme is designed for individuals looking to progress in careers such in software engineering, data science or cyber security management.
- The structure of the programme supports apprentices to grow and develop their own digital careers.
- The programme is available to existing employees for career progression and skills development, as well as for hiring new talent and growing your team.
- Ideal for employers across industries — from private enterprises of all sizes to NHS Trusts, councils and government — looking to fill digital skills gaps and future-proof their workforce.
Watch the video below to see how we are working with insurance company Admiral to deliver digital degree apprenticeships in Wales.
Apprentices don’t need formal qualifications to start this programme, but apprentices must be employed with an organisation willing to support them through the apprenticeship.
To be eligible for government funding, apprentices must:
- Be aged 16 or over
- Not be in full-time education
- Not already be on another apprenticeship
- Have the right to live and work in Wales
- Spend at least 51% of their working hours in Wales
This programme is ideal for those aiming to build careers in cyber security management, data science or software engineering. For more information, check out the 'Who is it for?' section above.
Looking for programmes in England instead? Check out our Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship.
Upon successful completion of the programme, apprentices will be awarded BSc (Honours) Digital Degree Apprenticeship, by the Open University.
Academic excellence
This degree apprenticeship is built from the ground up to meet the needs of today’s workplace. Every module has been created by our world-class academics specifically for our digital apprenticeships, so you can be confident the learning is current, industry-relevant and designed to deliver impact from day one.
With more than 50 years of expertise in distance education and a worldwide reputation for flexible learning, The Open University is a leader in developing degree apprenticeships that combine rigour with real-world relevance.
Our reputation for quality is nationally recognised:
- University of the Year 2025
- Gold-rated Teaching Excellence Framework
- Exceptional student satisfaction (NSS, 2025): teaching (92.8%), organisation (90%), and assessment and feedback (89.2%)
- Apprenticeship provision in England is rated 'Good' by Ofsted, 2025
Meet some of the experts who will guide your journey:
Shawn Appleyard
Lecturer in Computing and Communications specialising in Networking and Cyber Security
Dr. Autumn Thomson
Senior Lecturer and Staff Tutor, expert in software engineering, computing education, apprenticeships, curriculum design, and quality assurance
Martin Rothwell
Senior Lecturer in Computing and Communications (Digital Degree Apprenticeships), specialising in cyber security, data analysis, and project management
Programme information
This programme is built around a core set of topics, complemented by specialised content tailored to one of the following three areas of expertise enabling apprentices to build a solid foundation while developing the skills needed for their chosen specialism.
- Cyber Security Management
- Data Science
- Software Engineering
This three-year apprenticeship is designed to be completed in three stages. Each stage of study contains an academic module which will teach the essential knowledge and skills as defined by the apprenticeship framework and a work-based learning module. In Stage 3 the apprentice will also complete a capstone computing and IT project module.
Stage 1
At Stage 1 the apprentice will follow one of two routes, networking (for those following the cyber security management specialism) or software engineering (for those following either the software engineering or data science specialisms). The knowledge and skills at this level will be focused on supporting apprentices to carry out practical tasks for their employer in their specialism. This stage will develop core technical knowledge and skills so that the apprentices can deliver value to their employers as early as possible in the apprenticeship. In addition, they will develop academic skills related to study and communication, and employability skills related to independent working.
Stage 1 modules
- Digital Foundations: This module provides the foundational knowledge and skills related to computing in the Level 6 Digital Degree Apprenticeship framework for all specialisms.
- Digital Work Based Practice 1: This module provides an opportunity to implement the knowledge and skills explored in the Digital Foundations module, in the context of your employment.
Stage 2
During Stage 2 the apprentice will develop their understanding of their chosen specialism, strengthen their academic skills, and develop employability skills related to teamwork.
Stage 2 modules
- Digital Principles: This module will develop the core knowledge and skills of the Level 6 Digital Degree Apprenticeship framework and provide opportunities for apprentices to specialise in their chosen field.
- Digital Work Based Practice 2: This module enables apprentices to apply the knowledge and skills learnt in the Digital Principles module in the workplace, bringing them together in the context of a workplace project.
Stage 2 modules – subject to approval, to be confirmed by March 2026.
Stage 3
In Stage 3 the apprentice will develop advanced understanding of their chosen specialism, strengthen their academic skills, and develop employability skills related to management and leadership. In this stage there is also a final 30 credit project module.
Stage 3 modules
- Digital Advanced: This module covers advanced topics in the Digital Degree Apprenticeship framework, such as leadership and management, all in the context of the apprentice’s chosen specialism.
- Digital Work Based Practice 3: This module provides apprentices with the final opportunity to develop and embed the knowledge and skills learnt through the apprenticeship in their workplace.
- Computing & IT Project: The project is the final stage of the apprenticeship programme. It provides an opportunity to work on an exciting and interesting topic of their choice and to show their ability to work independently using knowledge and understanding they have gained from their studies throughout their degree apprenticeship programme.
Stage 3 modules – subject to approval, to be confirmed by March 2027.
We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 03/12/2025.
Want to know more?
For more details about each module and how they are assessed, download the programme brochure.
Download brochureStudy structure
The Open University is a global leader in flexible, work-based learning with over 50 years’ experience in distance education. Our approach allows apprentices to balance study with their job while delivering immediate impact in the workplace.
- Anytime, anywhere learning: access content 24/7 on laptops, tablets or mobiles.
- Tutor support and peer learning: online tutorials, forums and discussion groups connect apprentices with expert tutors and industry peers.
- Employer-friendly delivery: our flexible model makes off-the-job training easier to manage with minimal disruption to productivity.
Each module is supported by a dedicated online platform with:
- A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
- Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
- Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
- Details of each assignment and their due dates
- A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
- Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.
If you have additional needs, we can also provide most module materials in alternative formats. Find out more about materials on our accessibility webpage.
Workload
Apprenticeships combine practical experience with structured learning, all within normal working hours with at least 20% of weekly time dedicated to structured learning, known as off-the-job training which, and as this is an OU programme, can be spread across each week flexibly.
For more information, visit our Information for Apprentices page.
Want to know more?
Download our programme brochure for full details of this degree apprenticeship.
Download brochureEmployers
- Businesses of all sizes and across all sectors in Wales are eligible for government funding that will cover 100% of the cost of this apprenticeship programme.
- The employer is responsible for paying the apprentice’s salary and for any additional training.
- Additional incentives are sometimes available to support employers – please check the Medr apprenticeships page for the most up-to-date information.
More information about funding is available here.
Apprentices
- There are no fees to pay for apprentices as the funding is covered by Medr.
At The Open University, we know that successful apprenticeships depend on the right support. Alongside expert tutors, apprentices and employers benefit from a wide range of support teams.
Learn more about how The Open University supports apprentices
When you're ready to begin the apprenticeship application process, there are a few simple steps for both employers and apprentices. Our team is here to support you at every stage to ensure a smooth and efficient onboarding experience.
Employers
Initial contact
Reach out to us to express your interest in the apprenticeship programme.
Programme consultation
One of our dedicated Account Managers will contact you to discuss your organisation’s needs and the programme details.
Confirmation & paperwork
Once you confirm you'd like to proceed, we’ll guide you through the necessary documentation.
Submit apprentice details
Provide us with the names and contact information of your chosen apprentice(s).
Apprentice is contacted by the OU and invited to apply
For more information for employers, please see the following resources:
Apprentices
Initial contact
Ask your employer to get in touch with us to start the process.
Invitation to apply
Once the employer process is complete, we will invite you to apply.
Submit evidence and application
Prepare and submit any required documents to verify your eligibility and complete your application.
Decision
The OU will review your application and inform you whether you’ve been offered a place.
Meet your programme support team
As part of onboarding, you’ll be introduced to your Apprenticeship Programme Delivery Manager (APDM and/or Practice Tutor).
Begin pre-study
Once successfully registered, you’ll gain access to pre-study materials to help you prepare for the course.
For more information about apprenticeships and being an apprentice, please see Information for apprentices.
For further details, please see the following resources:
- Apprenticeship framework: The apprenticeship framework defines the pathway options and levels applicable to this programme.
- Qualification regulations: University regulations relating to this apprenticeship, in addition to regular academic regulations, will be published March 2026.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): You may be able use relevant previous learning to reduce the length of the programme. Find out more information about this by contacting us today.
- Assessment through the Medium of Welsh: Apprentices can choose to complete assessments—such as written assignments, exams, and projects—in Welsh at The Open University.
- Welsh Language Speakers: We support Welsh speaking apprentices' linguistic preference to ensure assessments reflect their chosen language and if you let us know that you speak Welsh, we can also match you to a practice tutor who speaks Welsh as well.
Next steps
For employers
- Download the brochure: Get the full details of our programme, including structure, support, and outcomes - perfect for sharing with internal stakeholders.
- Get in touch with our dedicated team: Click the button below to get in touch and discover how our degree apprenticeships can support your organisation’s growth and talent development goals.
For apprentices
- Already supported? Great! Share this page with your employer and ask them to get in touch with us here.
- Employed but not yet sponsored? Take the first step by reviewing our guide on how to approach your employer about apprenticeship opportunities.
- Looking for an employer? Visit the government’s apprenticeship website to find current vacancies, or explore our degree programmes to see where your learning journey could begin.
Frequently asked questions
Graduates of the Digital Degree Apprenticeship provide technology enabled solutions to internal and/or external stakeholders in a range of areas including software engineering, cyber security management and data science.
To apply for an apprenticeship programme you should be employed in a relevant role and have the approval of your employer.
Read our guidance about getting your employer's support here.
As leaders in supported online learning, the Open University have developed best-practice digital learning platforms. Apprentices will learn online and be supported with digital calls and meetings from their support team.
You may be able use relevant previous learning to reduce the length of the programme. Find out more about Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) by contacting us today.
To complete the programme, apprentices will need:
- Internet access and an internet-enabled device (desktop or laptop recommended)
- Webcam and microphone for online tutorials (a wired headset is recommended)
Where additional software is required, we provide access or free alternatives.
Where technical tools are used, we will provide access via the The OpenComputing Laboratory | Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, where apprentices can access online computing environments for data analysis and programming through their web browser.
For full details on device requirements for this programme, contact our helpful team.
