Systems engineer (degree)
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Engineering and manufacturing 4 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 7 degree apprenticeship trains systems engineers to design, integrate, and manage complex engineering systems across sectors such as aerospace, defence, infrastructure, and energy. Apprentices develop expertise in managing the full system lifecycle from requirements through to verification and in-service support. It can lead to roles as a Principal Systems Engineer, Technical Authority, or Engineering Director.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Systems engineering processes and lifecycle frameworks (e.g. ISO 15288)
Requirements engineering, architecture definition, and interface management
Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and digital engineering tools
Verification, validation, and integration testing strategies
Risk management and safety assurance for complex systems
Engineering project management and configuration control
Technical leadership and communicating across multidisciplinary teams
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Capture, develop, and manage system requirements across a programme
Develop system architectures and define interfaces between subsystems
Lead or participate in design reviews and technical authority panels
Plan and execute integration and verification activities
Manage configuration baselines and change control processes
Assess and mitigate technical risks on complex programmes
Produce systems engineering management plans and technical reports
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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