HLAs in The Faculty of EPS

THE FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES

HIGHER LEVEL APPRENTICESHIPS

A New Way to Learn

HLA courses

Queen's University Belfast offers a unique opportunity, for industry employers and aspiring professionals, through our Postgraduate Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA). Fully funded by the Department for the Economy (DfE), our HLAs are designed to meet industry needs while providing individuals with advanced education and practical experience.

What are HLAs?

Higher Level Apprenticeships combine academic learning with hands-on work experience. Our part-time programmes allow apprentices to study one day per week on campus while working the remaining four days, integrating new skills and knowledge directly into their professional roles. Over 2 to 2¾ years, apprentices benefit from industry-relevant teaching by expert lecturers and industry professionals.

Benefits to Students

NO TUITION FEES

No student loans for HLA students. The course is fully funded by the Department for the Economy.

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

You will be paid a competitive salary by your employer.

GAIN EXPERIENCE IN A JOB RELEVANT TO FUTURE CAREER

Set yourself up for success by gaining relevant, hands-on experience in the career path you’re passionate about.

INDUSTRIAL MENTOR FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Work with and learn from professionals with a wealth of experience in your field.

A MIX OF ON-THE-JOB TRAINING AND CAMPUS LEARNING

You will work on-site four days a week with one day of teaching on Campus at Queen’s.

Benefits to Employers

INNOVATION AND FRESH PERSPECTIVES

Apprentices bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn which can contribute to a dynamic work environment

RETENTION OF HIGHER-LEVEL TALENT

A skilled pipeline of accredited students that can be trained in growth areas for your company

ATTRACT HIGH CALIBRE STAFF

Develop a skilled workforce of students who can contribute effectively to projects during their training period

ADAPTABILITY

Student apprentices allow you to adapt to changing skill requirements.

INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY

Working with apprentices can inspire new ways of working that increase productivity

Our Seven HLA Programmes

We offer seven specialised Postgraduate-level HLAs tailored to meet industry needs and address skill gaps

Each programme is designed to enhance your analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing you for advanced roles within your industry.

Building Information Modeling HLA

Biopharmaceutical Analysis HLA

City Planning and Design HLA

Construction Project Management HLA

Mechanical Engineering HLA

Planning and Development HLA

Pharmaceutical Analysis HLA

See All

The Process:

Find an Employer: Secure a job with a relevant employer before the course starts in September.
Apply to the Programme: Submit your application once you have a job offer.
Get an Offer: Receive and accept your offer from Queen’s University.
Start in September: Begin your HLA journey.

Finding an Employer:

Already Employed: If you're already working in the relevant sector, discuss the HLA opportunity with your employer. They can contact us at askeps@qub.ac.uk for more details.
Seeking Employment: If you need a job, reach out to us at askeps@qub.ac.uk. We can connect you with companies looking for apprentices.

Entry Requirements

Eligibility: This programme is fully funded by the DfE and is open to domestic applicants only.

More information on eligibility criteria can be found on the nidirect website.

Commitment: Applicants and employers must demonstrate commitment and allocate sufficient time to attend and complete the course.

Join Us for an Info Evening and Summer BBQ

We’re hosting a summer BBQ on 3rd July for industry employers to come and learn more about the DfE funded HLA scheme and the benefits of taking on an apprentice.

Please register below to join us for an evening of networking, food, and insightful discussions.