Research found that 79 of the UK’s top 100 universities are not delivering construction-based degree apprenticeships, potentially impacting industry entry rates.

The study, conducted by the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC), found business and administrations degree apprenticeships have the highest offering, with almost 50% of the top 100 universities.

In the past year, degree apprenticeship starts have increased by 9%, comparative to the year prior. Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, chief executive for the UVAC says that despite this, “there is still scope for far greater provision.

“Given their proven impact on improving social mobility, addressing the skills gaps and shortages across public and private sector organisations and bolstering the wider economy.”

The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) estimated that 25,000 additional skilled workers are needed to meet the demand for major projects, including those directly related to net zero, by 2026.

New research found that the labour demand gap will get wider with an “estimated shortfall of 40,000 workers by 2028,” says the ECITB.

Dr. Crawford-Lee goes on to say: “We view the provision of higher and degree apprenticeships delivered by higher education as essential to levelling up regions and reducing the skills gap.

“Our research shows that there is still capacity within our UK institutions to both deliver more degree apprenticeships and diversify into new industries and occupations.”