As a Digital Technology Solutions apprentice you will be guided by a curriculum that has been developed in association with BT, HP, IBM and GSM to develop the skills relevant to your specific job role. Depending on which route you and your employer choose, you will have the opportunity to learn valuable industry knowledge which will prepare you for accreditations from CISCO, the EC-Council and Oracle.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll gain core technical knowledge that encompasses project management, business strategy, developing and delivering technology and software solutions, computer networking, and data management.
The apprenticeship offers a number of pathways, depending on where you wish to specialise:
IT consultant - IT consultants require a broad set of skills in areas such as business analysis, solutions development, network infrastructure, data, and cyber security. They use their consulting skills to advise clients on how to best utilise technology to meet business objectives and increase productivity. They also provide strategic guidance with regard to technology, and facilitate changing business processes through enhancements to technology solutions. IT consultants also provide technical assistance and often provide training.
Software engineer - A software engineer needs to be able to design, develop, build and test high-quality software solutions. This role requires apprentices to apply engineering principles at all levels of the software development process. This includes requirement gathering, analysis and design, development and data requirements, while ensuring security robustness is built in. Software engineers typically work as part of a larger collaborative team and will have responsibility for significant elements of software projects.
Network engineer - The primary role of a network engineer is to design, install, maintain and support communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. They need to maintain high levels of network performance and availability for users. They must also understand network configuration, cloud, network administration, and monitoring tools, and be able to give technical advice and guidance. Network engineers must be proficient in technology solutions to be able to analyse system requirements to ensure the network and its services operate to desired levels. Network engineers also understand data traffic and transmission across the network and have a major role to play in ensuring network security.
Data analyst - The role of a data analyst is to collect, organise and study data that can provide new business insight. This data is then compiled and used to inform decision making at all levels of the business. A data analyst is involved with managing, cleansing, abstracting and aggregate data across the network infrastructure. They also have a good understanding of data structures, software development procedures and the tools used to undertake standard and custom analytical studies, providing data solutions to a range of business issues.
Business analyst - Business analysts are responsible for assessing the impact of change - capturing, analysing and documenting requirements; and working with stakeholders to deliver projects that meet business requirements. They create detailed analysis of systems to make recommendations for improvement and produce specifications of user requirements that enable software engineers to develop the right software solutions. They require a broad set of skills and knowledge to be able to be effective as their work incorporates all aspects of digital technology systems.
Cyber security specialist - A cyber security specialist is responsible for the implementation, maintenance and support of the security controls that protect an organisation’s systems and data assets, ensuring security technologies and practices are operating in accordance with the organisation's policies and standards to provide continued protection. They are responsible for performing vulnerability assessments to evaluate an organisation's ongoing security and provide visibility to management of the main risks and control status on an ongoing basis. They also respond to security incidents and implement resolution activities across an organisation. Cyber security specialists require a broad understanding of network infrastructure, software and data to identify where threat and hazard can occur.
We currently offer the digital and technology solutions professional pathway aligned to the Institute for Apprenticeships standard.
Apprenticeships can add value at all levels of your business:
Here's what a higher or degree apprenticeship can offer you:
Graduates will leave the apprenticeship programme with two industry-recognised qualifications: a BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions degree and a degree apprenticeship qualification. This will put you in an excellent position to progress within your current organisation or pursue master’s level study.
Typical job titles:
This degree apprenticeship gives you (or your staff) the opportunity to earn a recognised university qualification while making an essential contribution within the workplace. Apprentices are full-time employees at their sponsoring organisation and spend one day each week completing assignments or attending lectures. A full-time degree apprenticeship lasts just over three years.
As an apprenticeship student here at Solent, you’ll have access to our full range of technology labs and software packages. These include our CISCO certified networking and security labs, the E-C Council lab, media technology labs, development centres and usability testing environments.
Our vibrant campus brings state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning and elevate your student experience. Our award-winning teaching building, The Spark is centred around students and offers a stimulating study environment with flexible learning spaces.
The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.
This module introduces you to software implementation through the process of understanding how to solve problems using programming.
This module develops the skills necessary to plan and implement small networks across a range of applications. It considers the basic design of a network infrastructure and addresses issues arising from the pre-installation and implementation stages of its development.
In this module you are introduced to the skills and concepts required for developing a basic relational, SQL-based database application solution and will apply them by using web-based, enterprise-level database software tools.
Systems analysis is a project-driven process that ensures that information systems are designed, developed and maintained in ways that provide optimum value to companies and clients.
Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.
Successful apprentices will graduate with a:BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions
Coursework
Practical activities 
Reports
Individual presentations
Group presentations
Timed exercises
PortfoliosSolent’s curriculum framework builds on our unique, creative and applied approach to teaching. The transformation of students’ lives is at the heart of our mission as a university, and our curriculum – informed by the latest theory – reflects this shared educational vision.
Find out moreBusinesses with an annual payroll above £3million will be classed as a levy paying employer and will be able to use funds accrued in their digital apprenticeship service (DAS) account for payment of the training. Please contact us for guidance on fees if you are a non-levy employer which will cover at least 95% of the costs.
The course fees will be covered by your employer.
Optional Costs
While most course costs are covered by your tuition fees, some essential resources and optional extras may need to be paid for separately. For advice on budgeting and managing your money, please contact student.funding@solent.ac.uk.
As an apprentice you'll earn while working and studying towards your degree.
There is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £45 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost. Extra guest tickets will go on sale after results publication and will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. The cost per ticket is currently £15. Please note, we do not guarantee there will be any extra tickets available to purchase.
To study for an apprenticeship, you must be employed by a sponsoring organisation. The specific entry requirements will be agreed with your employer.
You must have Level 2 GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at level C or above.
Recommended grades
Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but this is likely to include three ‘A’ levels (including maths), although some employers will accept other relevant qualifications or experience.
Example requirements
We will consider mature students who haven't recently undertaken a formalised course of study at A-level or equivalent, but who can demonstrate relevant workplace or voluntary experience that indicates their ability to complete the course successfully.
Some employers accept other relevant qualifications or experience, including those from a suitable Level 3 apprenticeship standard.
If you are an employer or a potential apprentice and would like to have an in-depth conversation with us about potential opportunities, please email admissions@solent.ac.uk or call 023 8201 5066.
Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of work experience and academic study. Candidates on an apprenticeship will work a paid job while simultaneously working towards a relevant qualification in their chosen field.
Apprentices are employees with a contract of employment which offers the same benefits and protections as any other employee. Apprentices will typically work for four days of the week, using the remaining day to attend classes and study.
Higher and degree apprenticeships give candidates the opportunity to work towards an undergraduate degree. Apprentices work on assignments that are relevant to their workplace, applying their new skills directly to their day-to-day work.
Higher apprenticeships offer an incredible opportunity to reward, incentivise and upskill staff in a cost effective and academically rigorous way. Research has shown that this can increase productivity and retention within the workforce.
Find out moreVisit us on campus and explore Solent University by registering for one of our apprenticeship events.
Come to an open dayAll students at Solent University have access to a range of specialist support services. Whether you are having financial difficulty, need additional help with academic skills or want advice on setting up your own business you'll find that help is always on hand.
Most of our specialist support services are based around the Student Hub, a central space where you can access all the information and support you may need during your time at University. The Student Hub is the first point of contact if you have any queries relating to your course, including questions about your timetable, options, and assessments and extenuating circumstances.
We work in partnership with the University to build a sense of pride and confidence in your Union, University and student experience.
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