Government Social Research Degree Apprenticeship Programme

This is the UK’s first ever bespoke applied social research undergraduate degree apprenticeship. The course will cover a broad range of contemporary quantitative and qualitative social research methods and skills, alongside how they can be applied to bring about real-world change and help government and organisations make better decisions.  

This includes, but is not limited to: how to collect and use data for analysis in a range of different social contexts; how to design impactful research projects that could inform some of society’s most pressing questions; how to make use of modern social research software that will also bring you transferrable skills in coding; and you will have the opportunity to undertake an independent research project in an area of relevant interest to you. 

Apprenticeships are offered at a variety of different government departments across England. A full list can be found in the job descriptions on the application page.

Apprentices will typically spend four days a week working in their government department, and one day a week being taught by some of the world’s foremost social research experts at the University of Kent. On successful completion of the programme, apprentices will receive an honours degree in Applied Social Research from this university.  Most learning will take place virtually.  

Apprentices will work closely with academic methods experts and peers remotely through weekly online live lectures and seminars, and face-to-face through an annual residential on campus. These are occasions for both in depth learning and socialising with fellow apprentices. Throughout the degree, apprentices will have access to one-to-one coaching and guidance from a dedicated course tutor.  

During the course, apprentices will also be fully registered as students at the university, giving them all the benefits that come with this.  

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, you will gain an Applied Social Research degree (with no tuition fees to pay back) four years’ work experience in the Civil Service, and a permanent government role. This sets you up to build a brilliant career as a social researcher.  

Training:
Tasks vary by government department. You can read indicative job descriptions here: https://bit.ly/GSRDAP Typically, our apprentices will spend 4 days per week working in their government department, and 1 day studying online with the University of Kent.  

Training Outcome:

The range of opportunities open to you through the GSRDAP programme is huge – working in government departments responsible for things like finance, business, energy, justice, education, and the environment. There are also lots of opportunities outside government, in research institutes, academia, and charities, to name a few.  

Employer Description:
Government Social Research (GSR) is the organisation running the recruitment scheme, however successful applicants will receive an offer of employment from a government department or organisation, not GSR.

Working Hours :
37 Hour week, with 20% of this time spent on studying The apprenticeship typically lasts 4 years.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Number skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative