¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ

Developing Ireland’s future leaders through industry-led education.

¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ is proud to be Ireland’s first university to deliver a full suite of Executive Apprenticeships from Level 7 Diploma to Level 10 Doctorate. Designed in partnership with industry, these programmes allow professionals to advance their careers while driving measurable impact in their organisations.

Why Choose UL Executive Apprenticeships?

• Industry-led design – Developed in collaboration with leading employers, professional bodies, and consortia.
• Work-based learning – All programmes follow a 70:30 model (70% on-the-job / 30% off-the-job), ensuring minimal time away from the workplace.
• Flexible delivery – Using a blend of online and workplace learning to fit around professional and personal commitments.
• Recognised qualifications – Pathways from Level 7 right through to Level 10 (Doctorate), accredited by UL.
• Subsidised fees – Apprenticeships are majority funded by the Higher Education Authority.

What is an Executive Apprenticeship?

An executive apprenticeship is a structured programme of education and training that formally combines learning in the workplace with learning in a university. Apprentices benefit from a dual learning system – a practical, employer-based experience alongside academic study ensuring graduates are both highly skilled and future-focused.

±õ°ù±ð±ô²¹²Ô»å’s&²Ô²ú²õ±è; was established following a 2013 review of apprenticeship training, leading to a modern framework that now includes executive-level programmes for professionals. UL is proud to be the first Irish university offering these higher-level opportunities.

Our Programmes

UL currently offers a growing portfolio of Executive Apprenticeships:

• Lean Sigma Manager (MSc, Level 9)
• Supply Chain Associate (Diploma, Level 7)
• Supply Chain Specialist (BSc, Level 8)
• Supply Chain Manager (MSc, Level 9)
• Equipment Systems Engineer (MEng, Level 9)
• Professional Doctorate in Engineering (DEng, Level 10) – the world’s first doctoral-level apprenticeship
• Cybersecurity Practitioner (BSc, Level 8) – on hold.

Note: All apprenticeships are subject to an application and approval process.

Benefits for Employers

Executive Apprenticeships are not just an investment in your employees, they deliver measurable impact for your organisation:

• Retain top talent – Show your employees a clear pathway for progression, strengthening loyalty and reducing turnover.
• Upskill your workforce – Close critical skills gaps with employees who gain cutting-edge knowledge and apply it directly in the workplace.
• Build a future talent pipeline – Develop leaders and specialists within your organisation who are ready to step into strategic roles.
• See immediate business impact – Apprentices bring new tools, frameworks, and solutions into your organisation from day one.
• Maximise return on investment – With programme fees highly subsidised, apprenticeships are one of the most cost-effective ways to grow capability.

Executive Apprenticeships ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ have transformed how we develop talent, and they have become integral to our Learning and Development strategy. We can identify future leaders early, support their growth, and retain them by offering meaningful progression all while addressing the skills our business needs most. I would highly recommend these programmes to any employer.

Nicola O’Connell – Talent Management Lead, TE Connectivity

For more information, please visit the Employer Information section or reach out to apprenticeships@ul.ie  

Funding & Fees

Executive Apprenticeships are highly subsidised for approved applicants. Employers pay only a small contribution towards programme costs, typically representing a significant saving compared to standard programme fees. Fees are listed on individual programme pages. 

For more information, please visit the Fees and Application section.

Take the Next Step

Whether you are an employer looking to future-proof your workforce or a professional eager to progress your career, UL’s Executive Apprenticeships provide a proven pathway to success.

Email: apprenticeships@ul.ie

Download our information flyer

Or fill out the Expression of Interest form below 

(Please note: employers and employees fill out the same form)