What is the DE&S Engineering Degree Apprenticeship?
If you’re interested in studying for a degree and earning while you learn, our Engineering Degree Apprenticeship is for you. You’ll complete several work-based training placements, all while you’re completing the relevant vocational qualifications in preparation for engineering roles within current and future defence programmes.
What you’ll get
£25,760
Starting salary
How long for
5
Years (Up to)
Where you’ll be
Bristol
MOD Abbey Wood
What you’ll need
To apply for this scheme, you’ll need:
- Five GCSEs at grade 4-9 (C to A*) including English Language, Maths and a Science
and either:
- Three A Levels including Maths, a Science, and one other (excluding general studies), at a minimum of C,C,C
or
- A BTEC national diploma in Engineering equivalent to a minimum 96 UCAS Points
or
- A minimum of 96 UCAS points in relevant Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths subjects
What you’ll do
You’ll attend University College Weston to learn core engineering skills and start your BEng Degree in Electromechanical Engineering. This degree is a blend of mechanical and electrical/electronics engineering. While you’ll still complete some pure mechanical modules, our 2025 intake will have a bias towards electronics.
You’ll continue studying for your Bachelor’s degree (part-time) at university while undertaking work-based placements across all areas of DE&S. The placements will provide you with much of the experience that you’ll need to take on a role within the business. You’ll also:
- Work alongside experienced project managers and engineers
- Work on real projects and experiencing the challenges faced by DE&S
- Spend time with partners like BAE Systems, Babcock, General Dynamics, Airbus Defence, Thales and Leonardo
- Spend time at military bases across the UK
By the end of year three, you’ll be qualified and experienced to a level that allows you to register with a Professional Engineering Institution as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). You’ll have the option to start work within the business or continue into years four and five of the apprenticeship.
At this point, we expect you to be aligned to a specific part of the organisation. You’ll also continue to gain even more knowledge and experience to prepare yourself for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (I Eng). With a further two years of study, you’ll complete your part-time degree.
What our learners say about working for DE&S
“I really enjoy the networking, not only with my cohort but other people in the organisation. There is lots of support around and I have had the opportunity to work on some exciting projects.”
Charlotte, Engineering Apprentice
Developing tomorrow’s talent, today.
Course frequently asked questions
Yes. Should you require support with the application process you can contact our Entry Talent team at deshr-etcoe-recruitment@mod.gov.uk
DE&S is currently operating a Smarter Working Policy, where hybrid working may be available depending on your placement/project.
However, we cannot specifically advise in advance of you joining the organisation. It could mean being situated in office three times a week, or twice a month. We strongly encourage face-to-face collaboration to network with your peers and gain further experience.
You will be able to discuss your daily working hours with your Delivery Manager on starting.
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer a place to those who do not meet the entry requirements for the scheme.
Please contact our Entry Talent team at deshr-etcoe-recruitment@mod.gov.uk
